There's no question that when it turns November, focus is diverted almost entirely towards Thanksgiving. (And those beautiful Thanksgiving pies!) But if we're being totally honest, there might just be one more November event that piques our interest ever so slightly more: The National Dog Show!

It's a holiday tradition like no other, and it airs on Thanksgiving itself—so, technically, we can combine the two as one shebang! With that said, get ready for a big round of "a-paws," because the cutest pups in town (besides for Ree's bassets, of course!) are back again for 2023, and we couldn't be any more excited. 👏

So, as you hungrily await your delicious Thanksgiving dinner, you can pass the time by watching the best of the best (AKA: the top 200 dogs) in action.

Here’s everything you need to know about this year's National Dog Show, including how to watch from home, purchase tickets, and everything else you should expect.

What time is the National Dog Show on Thanksgiving?

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This might be obvious, but Thanksgiving *always* takes place on the fourth Thursday in November, so in 2023 it will be Thursday, November 23. That being said, the National Dog Show is a Thanksgiving tradition (for over 20 years) and will air on Thanksgiving Day. It's presented by The Kennel Club of Philadelphia and licensed by the American Kennel Club. It's broadcasted on NBC at 12 p.m. in all time zones—right after the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Where can I watch the show?

You can watch the 2023 National Dog Show on NBC, but you can also stream it on NBC’s website and other streaming apps (like Hulu Live and Youtube TV). If you have a mobile device or other applicable devices, you can stream the show on the NBC app.

How do I purchase tickets?

It's important to know that the show does not take place the same day it airs! Instead, the show is filmed before Thanksgiving and this year it will take place from November 18-19. The competition is held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania and admission is available for anyone with a ticket. Expect to see 2,000 participating dogs, making up about 100 dog breeds.

Tickets are on sale now for November 18-19. You can purchase tickets on the National Dog Show's official website. Tickets are just $16 for adults, $7 for children 4-11, and free admission for kids three and younger.

Who won the National Dog Show last year?

national dog show thanksgiving 2023
NBC//Getty Images

A French Bulldog, named Winston, won the Best In Show at the 2022 National Dog Show. Can't wait to see this year's winner!

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Josiah Soto

Josiah Soto is the assistant editor of news and social for The Pioneer Woman. He helps manage the website’s social channels, in addition to writing high-performing news and entertainment content daily.