John O'Hurley Previews the 23rd Annual National Dog Show

The National Dog Show Tradition

• 📺 John O'Hurley returns to host the 23rd annual National Dog Show, airing Thanksgiving Day.
• 🗓️ The show features 2,000 canine competitors vying for the Best in Show title.
• 🎤 O'Hurley has hosted the event for 24 years, calling it a wonderful tradition.

Memorable Moments and Breeds

• 🤣 A memorable moment involved a Great Dane leaving an "editorial comment" on the broadcast area, requiring a hazmat team.
• 🐶 This year's show features breeds like the English Toy Spaniel, exemplified by a dog named Barbie, who arrived from Ukraine and quickly became the number one dog of her breed in the country.

The Appeal of the Dog Show

• viewership of 25 million people tune in annually.
• 📺 O'Hurley attributes the show's success to its placement between the parade and football, offering a perfect two-hour television slot.
• 🐶 The appeal is amplified by the presence of puppy dog eyes, captivating viewers.

Pandemic Impact on Pet Ownership

• 📈 There has been a significant explosion in pet ownership, particularly dogs, since the pandemic began.
• 🤝 Many people sought companionship during the uncertainty of the pandemic and adopted dogs.
• ⚠️ However, as people returned to work, many dogs were returned to shelters, highlighting that dog ownership is a lifetime commitment.
• 🏡 O'Hurley notes that even in apartment-dense areas like his town in New Jersey, dog ownership is prevalent, with certain breeds being more suitable for apartment living.

Broadcast Details

• 📅 The National Dog Show airs on Thanksgiving Day between 12 PM and 2 PM.