The National Dog Show Presented by Purina returns this Thanksgiving, and this year’s two-hour broadcast comes with major milestones, special celebrations, and a brand-new breed stepping into the spotlight. The show’s longtime hosts, John O’Hurley and David Frei, sat down with us to share what viewers can expect when the beloved holiday tradition airs Thursday from 12–2 p.m. on NBC and streams on Peacock.
O’Hurley, known to many as J. Peterman from Seinfeld and the first-ever champion of Dancing with the Stars, calls the National Dog Show his “favorite day of the year.” Frei, America’s foremost canine expert, is marking a remarkable achievement of his own: his 51st major dog show broadcast, spanning both Westminster and the National Dog Show. Together, the duo brings decades of expertise, humor, and heart to the Thanksgiving stage.
This year’s broadcast also celebrates the 25th anniversary of “Best in Show,” the cult-classic Christopher Guest mockumentary that partly inspired the creation of the National Dog Show in 2002. O’Hurley and Frei reflect on the surprising influence the film has had on the dog-show world and the constant questions they still receive from fans.
Another highlight is the national television debut of the Danish-Swedish Farmdog, the newest breed recognized by the American Kennel Club. Compact, energetic, and full of personality, the Farmdog will compete on the big stage for the first time, giving viewers a chance to meet a rising star in the canine community.
With millions of families tuning in each year, the National Dog Show has become as much a part of Thanksgiving as turkey and football. And with O’Hurley and Frei guiding viewers through the competition once again, this year promises to be one of the most memorable yet.