National Dog Show 2026: Dates, Tickets, Schedule, Breeds, and Events

Every November, dog lovers across America look forward to one of the most beloved events in the canine calendar. The National Dog Show 2026 is set to return to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania, on November 14 and 15, 2026. Whether you are a lifelong dog enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this guide covers everything you need to plan a perfect visit.

What Is the National Dog Show?

Purina presents the National Dog Show, and the Kennel Club of Philadelphia hosts it. It is the most widely viewed dog show in America. The event traces its roots back to 1879, making it one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious dog competitions.

Each year, up to 2,000 of the top American Kennel Club (AKC) sanctioned dogs gather to compete. Judges evaluate the dogs across seven breed groups, and the competition ultimately crowns a single champion with the coveted Best in Show title. Additionally, the organizers tape the show on Saturday for a nationwide broadcast on Thanksgiving Day, airing from noon to 2 p.m. ET on NBC.

One thing that makes this event truly unique is its benched format. It is the only single-venue benched show in America. That means all competing dogs remain at designated locations throughout the day. Therefore, visitors can walk the aisles, meet the dogs up close, and chat with their handlers and owners. This access sets the show apart from any other dog competition in the country.

National Dog Show 2026: Key Dates and Location

Mark your calendars with the essential event details below.

Detail	Information
Event Name	National Dog Show 2026 Presented by Purina
Dates	Saturday, November 14 – Sunday, November 15, 2026
Venue	Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
Address	100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA 19456
Saturday Hours	8:00 AM – approximately 6:30 PM
Sunday Hours	8:00 AM – approximately 5:00 PM
TV Broadcast	Thanksgiving Day, NBC, 12–2 PM ET

The venue sits just minutes from Valley Forge and is easily accessible via Route 422. On-site parking is available for visitors arriving by car.

Full Schedule: Saturday, November 14, 2026

Saturday is the flagship day of the show. It is taped for the Thanksgiving Day broadcast, so the energy on the floor is particularly exciting. Breed judging kicks off early in the morning, and the day builds toward the highly anticipated Best in Show announcement.

Time	Event	Location
8:00 AM	Breed Judging Begins	Halls A, B & D
9:00 AM	Pro Plan Performance Team Show	Hall B
10:00 AM	Pro Plan Performance Team Show	Hall B
11:00 AM	Pro Plan Performance Team Show	Hall B
11:30 AM	Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge Agility Show	Hall C
12:40 PM	National Anthem Ceremony	Hall C
1:00 PM	Group Judging	Hall C
6:00 PM	Best in Show Judging	Hall C

Please note that Best in Show often runs a little later than 6:00 PM, so plan to stay until approximately 6:30 PM if you want to witness the grand finale.

Full Schedule: Sunday, November 15, 2026

The Kennel Club of Philadelphia also hosts a full day of canine competitions independently on Sunday. It features enhanced athletic dog exhibitions and plenty of family-friendly fun. Additionally, the Pro Plan Performance Team puts on multiple shows throughout the day for the crowd.

Time	Event	Location
8:00 AM	Breed Judging Begins	Halls A, B & D
9:30 AM	Pro Plan Performance Team Show	Hall B
10:30 AM	Pro Plan Performance Team Show	Hall B
11:30 AM	Pro Plan Performance Team Show	Hall B
12:30 PM	Pro Plan Performance Team Show	Hall B
1:30 PM	Pro Plan Performance Team Show	Hall B
1:45 PM	Kennel Club of Philadelphia Group Judging	Hall C
5:00 PM	Kennel Club of Philadelphia Best in Show Judging	Hall C

Sunday’s Best in Show is announced at around 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM, so the day wraps up slightly earlier than Saturday.

The Seven Breed Groups Explained

Organizers divide the dogs at the show into seven groups. Each group reflects the original purpose for which people developed those breeds. Judges first evaluate dogs within their breed, then select a winner from each group. Finally, the seven group winners compete for Best in Show.

Group	Description	Example Breeds
Sporting	Bred to assist hunters in the field	Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever
Hound	Bred to track game by scent or sight	Beagle, Greyhound
Working	Bred for guarding, pulling, and rescuing	Boxer, Siberian Husky
Terrier	Bred to hunt and dig out vermin	Scottish Terrier, Bull Terrier
Toy	Small companion dogs bred for affection	Chihuahua, Pomeranian
Non-Sporting	A diverse group with varied purposes	Dalmatian, French Bulldog
Herding	Bred to control and move livestock	Border Collie, German Shepherd

In 2026, up to 205 breeds and varieties are eligible to compete. However, breed eligibility can vary year to year based on AKC recognition, so check the official website for the latest breed listings.

Tickets: How to Get In and What to Expect

Tickets for the National Dog Show 2026 are available online through the official ticketing portal at nds.nationaldogshow.com, as well as at the door on the day of the event. The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center is a large venue, so organizers generally do not expect tickets to sell out. However, purchasing in advance gives you peace of mind.

Ticket prices are designed to be family-friendly. Based on historical pricing, adult tickets have been around $16, with reduced prices for children between the ages of 4 and 11. Children aged 3 and under are typically admitted free of charge. Therefore, a family outing to the show remains an affordable and memorable experience.

Seating is available in the stadium show ring for Group Judging and Best in Show. However, these seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to get a good view.

Events and Attractions Beyond the Ring

The show offers far more than just competitive judging. There is something for every type of visitor, from the dedicated dog breeder to the curious child attending for the very first time.

The Pro Plan Performance Team puts on high-energy athletic dog exhibitions multiple times each day. These shows highlight the agility, speed, and intelligence of dogs in an entertaining format that the whole family can enjoy.

The Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge Agility Show is a crowd favorite on Saturday morning. Watching dogs navigate obstacle courses with breathtaking precision is a thrill for visitors of all ages.

Because the show uses a benched format, visitors have the rare opportunity to meet nearly 2,000 dogs face to face. Handlers station their dogs and are happy to answer questions about their breeds. This is a wonderful chance to learn about a breed you are considering adopting. Additionally, vendor booths throughout the hall offer dog products, accessories, apparel, and more.

For those interested in prize money, the show awards $30,000 in total prize money to competitors on Saturday.

Visiting the Area: What to Do in Montgomery County

The show takes place in Oaks, Pennsylvania, which is part of the Valley Forge and Montgomery County area. This region has a lot to offer visitors who want to extend their trip beyond the expo center.

Montgomery County is considered a pet-friendly paradise. There are countless dog-friendly parks, trails, and restaurants throughout the area. However, please note that the expo center does not permit personal pets inside the venue during the show. If you bring your own dog, you will need to make other arrangements for them during your visit.

For those traveling without pets, the county offers vibrant dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Valley Forge National Historical Park is nearby and worth a visit for history enthusiasts. The area also has a range of hotels and lodging options to suit different budgets.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

A little planning goes a long way when attending a large event like this. Here are some practical tips to make your visit as smooth as possible.

• Arrive early. Breed judging starts at 8:00 AM, and arriving at opening time gives you the best experience before crowds build up.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The expo center is large, and you will be on your feet for most of the day.
• Bring cash and cards. Concessions accept both forms of payment.
• Secure your Best in Show seating early. Head to Hall C well before 1:00 PM on Saturday if you want a ringside seat for Group Judging.
• Check the official website before you go. Schedules and details can shift, so confirm times in advance.
• Do not bring your own pets. Personal dogs are not allowed inside the expo center.
• Plan for traffic. The event draws large crowds, so allow extra travel time to reach the venue.

How to Watch on TV if You Cannot Attend

If attending in person is not possible, you can still enjoy the show from home. NBC tapes the Saturday competition and broadcasts it nationwide on Thanksgiving Day from noon to 2:00 PM ET. It airs immediately after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

You can also stream the broadcast through NBC’s website and the NBC app on devices such as Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire. John O’Hurley and dog show expert analyst David Frei return as hosts, with sideline reporter Mary Carillo providing behind-the-scenes coverage. It is the perfect way to enjoy the holiday with both family and the spirit of the show.

Conclusion

The National Dog Show 2026 promises two full days of world-class canine competition, entertaining exhibitions, and unforgettable family memories. Taking place on November 14 and 15, 2026, at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania, the event brings together up to 2,000 top dogs from across the country. Visitors can expect breed judging across seven groups, thrilling agility performances, the chance to meet hundreds of breeds up close, and the dramatic Best in Show finale. Tickets are affordable and available online or at the door. For those who cannot make the trip, the Saturday show broadcasts on NBC on Thanksgiving Day. Whether you go in person or watch from your couch, this is one event that truly celebrates the remarkable bond between dogs and people.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the National Dog Show 2026?

The National Dog Show 2026 takes place on Saturday, November 14, and Sunday, November 15, 2026, at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania. Each day begins at 8:00 AM.

Can I bring my dog to the National Dog Show?

No. Spectators are not allowed to bring personal pets inside the expo center. Only registered competing dogs are permitted. If you want to share the experience with your dog, watching the televised broadcast on Thanksgiving Day is a great option.

What time is Best in Show announced?

On Saturday, organizers typically announce Best in Show at approximately 6:30 PM. On Sunday, the Kennel Club of Philadelphia typically announces Best in Show around 4:30 to 5:00 PM. Both times can shift slightly depending on how judging progresses throughout the day.

How do I watch the National Dog Show on TV?

NBC broadcasts the Saturday show on Thanksgiving Day from noon to 2:00 PM ET. You can also stream it through the NBC website or the NBC app on Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV devices.

How many breeds compete at the National Dog Show?

Up to 205 breeds and varieties sanctioned by the American Kennel Club are eligible to compete. In any given year, approximately 190 or more breeds typically participate, with up to 2,000 individual dogs on site across the two days.

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