National Dog Show Winners: A Complete History

Leana Rogers Salamah
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National Dog Show Winners: A Complete History

The National Dog Show is an annual event that showcases the best purebred dogs in the United States. Millions of people tune in every Thanksgiving Day to watch the competition, making it one of the most popular dog shows in the country.

What is the National Dog Show?

The National Dog Show is a purebred dog show held annually on Thanksgiving Day in the United States. The show is hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and televised by NBC. It is one of the three major dog shows in the United States, along with the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and the American Kennel Club National Championship.

The show features over 200 breeds of dogs, all vying for the coveted title of Best in Show. Dogs compete in their respective breeds, and the winners of each breed then compete in one of seven groups: Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. The winners of each group then compete for the title of Best in Show.

History of the National Dog Show

The Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Show has a rich history that dates back to 1879, making it one of the oldest dog shows in the United States. However, it wasn't until 1933 that the show gained national recognition when it was first televised. Over the years, the show has become a beloved Thanksgiving Day tradition for millions of Americans. Lakers Vs. Hornets: Where To Watch The Game Live

Key Moments in National Dog Show History

  • 1879: The Kennel Club of Philadelphia holds its first dog show.
  • 1933: The show is televised for the first time, reaching a national audience.
  • 2002: NBC begins broadcasting the show annually on Thanksgiving Day.
  • Present: The National Dog Show continues to be a highly anticipated event, showcasing a wide variety of breeds and celebrating the human-animal bond.

How the National Dog Show Works

The National Dog Show is an all-breed conformation show, meaning that dogs are judged on how well they conform to their breed's official standard. Judges evaluate each dog's physical characteristics, temperament, and overall appearance.

The competition unfolds in several stages:

  1. Breed Judging: Dogs of the same breed compete against each other.
  2. Group Judging: The winners from each breed advance to compete within their respective groups (Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding).
  3. Best in Show: The seven group winners compete for the ultimate title of Best in Show.

National Dog Show Winners List

Year Breed Dog's Name
2022 Scottish Deerhound Claire Allen's GCHG Foxcliffe Claire Randall CM FDC CA RATN CGCA CGCU TKN
2021 French Bulldog GCHG CH Fox Canyon's I Won The War
2020 English Springer Spaniel GCHP CH Gold Roks Solitaire
2019 Bull Terrier GCHG CH Don Juan de La Mancha
2018 Whippet GCHG CH Pinnacle Kentucky Bourbon
2017 Wire Fox Terrier GCHG CH Kingarthur Van Eragon
2016 German Shorthaired Pointer GCHP CH Mt. View's Ripsnorter Silver Charm
2015 Skye Terrier GCH CH Cragsmoor Good Time Charlie
2014 Bloodhound GCH CH Quiet Creek's Kiss and Tell
2013 Affenpinscher GCH Banana Joe V Tani Kazari
2012 Pointer GCH CH St. Aubrey's Twister
2011 Black Cocker Spaniel GCH CH Casablanca's Thrilling Seduction
2010 Scottish Deerhound GCH CH Foxcliffe Hickory Wind

Famous National Dog Show Winners

Over the years, several dogs have achieved fame and recognition for their outstanding performances at the National Dog Show. These dogs have not only won Best in Show but have also captured the hearts of dog lovers across the country.

Memorable Best in Show Winners

  • 2011 - GCH CH Casablanca's Thrilling Seduction (Black Cocker Spaniel): "Thriller" was the first of his breed to win Best in Show, capturing the hearts of fans with his exuberant personality.
  • 2015 - GCH CH Cragsmoor Good Time Charlie (Skye Terrier): "Charlie" charmed the judges and audience alike with his elegant appearance and confident demeanor.
  • 2017 - GCHG CH Kingarthur Van Eragon (Wire Fox Terrier): "King" was a crowd favorite, known for his impeccable grooming and showmanship.
  • 2021 - GCHG CH Fox Canyon's I Won The War (French Bulldog): "Winston" was the second French Bulldog to win Best in Show, and captured fans with his charming personality.

FAQ About the National Dog Show

What breeds are eligible for the National Dog Show?

All breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) are eligible to compete in the National Dog Show. This includes hundreds of breeds across seven groups: Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding.

How are dogs judged at the National Dog Show?

Dogs are judged on how well they conform to their breed's official standard. Judges evaluate each dog's physical characteristics, temperament, and overall appearance. The dog that best represents its breed standard is selected as the winner.

How can I attend the National Dog Show?

The National Dog Show is held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania. Tickets are available for purchase online and at the door. The show is a popular event, so it's recommended to purchase tickets in advance.

How can I watch the National Dog Show on television?

The National Dog Show is broadcast annually on NBC on Thanksgiving Day. The show is a beloved holiday tradition for millions of Americans. Michael Jordan's Iconic Crying Moments With The Trophy

What is the significance of winning Best in Show at the National Dog Show?

Winning Best in Show at the National Dog Show is a prestigious achievement in the world of dog shows. It recognizes the dog as an outstanding example of its breed and brings recognition to the dog's breeder and owner. Country Club Manor Apartments: A Comprehensive Guide

Are there any other events held during the National Dog Show?

In addition to the conformation show, the National Dog Show also features other events, such as agility competitions, obedience trials, and educational seminars. These events provide opportunities for dog owners and enthusiasts to learn more about responsible dog ownership and training.

Conclusion

The National Dog Show is more than just a competition; it's a celebration of the human-animal bond and the diversity of dog breeds. From the breed judging to the crowning of Best in Show, the event showcases the dedication, skill, and passion of breeders, handlers, and owners. As you gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, be sure to tune in and witness the excitement of the National Dog Show.

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