Barking Up the Right Tree with 2024’s National Dog Show at Greater Philadelphia Expo Center

 

Story, photos by Sharon Kozden

I’m here to talk about dogs. But first, monkeys must be mentioned. Say wha …?  Give me grace while I explain.

Remember when Conchata Ferrell’s character in the film Mystic Pizza announced to her trio of employees, “It’s tradition, and you don’t monkey with tradition?” Nope: no monkeying with tradition. Never-ever.

Traditions comfort in many ways, which is why, despite not really fancying turkey, I roast a bird yearly without fail. And you’d best believe that, as said fowl’s wonderful aroma escapes the oven to permeate my home in Gladwyne, another tradition plays out in my living room, where the National Dog Show fills my holiday mise en scene, streaming (courtesy of NBC10 Philadelphia) in panoramic color onto a large-screen television. Showtime begins just after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade at noon and runs until 2:00 p.m.

The two-hour show is sanctioned by the AKC (American Kennel Club), which means only registered purebreds can participate. Approximately 2,000 dogs compete in seven categories: herding, hound, working, sporting, non-sporting, terrier and toy. This year saw a representative increase from 2023’s 199 breeds to 205. A new breed, the Lancashire Heeler (an official breed in the United Kingdom since 1981), made its 2024 debut in the herding group.

It’s exciting to have hosts David Frei and John O’Hurley hanging out with me every Turkey Day, introducing the many varieties of canine breeds on a program that’s been airing yearly since 2002. This year marked the pair’s 23rd appearance together as hosts. And yes, if O’Hurley looks familiar, he is that guy you’ve seen before, most notably when he portrayed the inimitable J. Peterman (Elaine’s boss) on the “show about nothing” sitcom, Seinfeld.

By now, the story of how the National Dog Show originated has become familiar, although I always delight in its retelling. To wit:

Back in the day, when It’s a Wonderful Life was the time-filler that aired between parade and football shenanigans on Thanksgiving Day, the movie’s viewership numbers began to wane. Enter then NBC Sports head Jon Miller, who was tasked with finding an alternative to fill the two-hour slot. Apropos of no particular reason, said head was watching 2000’s Best in Show, the iconic dog-show mockumentary from Christopher Guest. In a lightbulb-overhead-revelatory moment, an NBC-broadcasted show was born! Fortunately, when the idea was pitched by Miller, all confirmed its brilliance, which is how and why for over 20 million viewers nationwide, The National Dog Show presented by Purina is a tradition not to be monkeyed with.

While the telly-vised version of the show began in 2002, the Kennel Club of Philadelphia has been, according to a communication I discovered in my media packet, “organizing this event since its inception in 1879,” and it has been “a staple of the Philadelphia sports and entertainment calendar since 1933.

I was thrilled to be invited back in 2024 for my second year of event coverage. I arrived at the media and press-designated area at Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA around noon on Saturday, November 16th, grabbed my reserved media credentials and signed the required confidentiality agreement.

Group judging began at 1:00 p.m., while Best-in-Show determining started at 6:00 p.m. While the NDS takes place annually on both Saturdays and Sundays, live taping was on Saturday, so we media folks became secret keepers (hush!) as the winner’s identity isn’t revealed for nearly two weeks out at Thanksgiving, hence the signed promissory notes of sorts.

A near fortnight is a long time to keep mum, but it’s really not hard to do. After all, in addition to being silence-bound by signage, we’re entrusted by our collective characters. Be good and do the right thing. It’s that simple. ‘Ruff said.

The 2024 National Dog Show was the lone “benched” show in America for 2024 with 1,940 show dogs competing. A benched show means the dogs are available on the venue’s floor for attendees to meet-greet, pet and ask questions of the onsite breeders-owners-handlers. It’s a great way for adults and kids to learn about 180+ different breeds and to be educated on “responsible pet parenting and the joys of dog ownership.” Check these stats for 2024’s entries: 54 Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, 52 Golden Retrievers and some 48 Siberian Huskies.

There are agility contests presented by Purina Pro Plan, vendors aplenty, food concessions, a Therapy Dog Ambassador section, where attendees can connect with dogs that are certified and trained to visit schools, hospitals and healthcare facilities. This much I know … were I confined, injured, ill, lonely, anxious or struggling in any way, I would certainly welcome the comfort and attention from man’s best friend. Canines are non-judgmental and provide unconditional love and loyalty. In fact, I could write an entire article about these valuable resources. Without a doubt, my “daughter” is my ride or die homie and unparalleled bestie.

The show also spotlighted awards, ceremonies, a National Anthem performance and more. Parking is free and tickets are inexpensive … just $20 for adults and $10 for ages 3-11.

What was new for me in 2024 was my attendance at the National Dog Show Press Preview on November 12th at Hilton Garden Inn Valley Forge/Oaks. The Kennel Club of Philadelphia and the NDS previewed the “annual canine extravaganza” by hosting members of media and press in some unique and very special ways.

Principals in attendance at the preview included Steven Sansone (Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s Board of Directors), the Clubs Director of Communications Steve Griffith, officials from Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board and members of the NDS Therapy Dog Ambassador Team as well as perennial NDS host Dave Frei.

Representative media and press members were invited to bring their pooches, treated to a lovely luncheon (with water and treats for pets), sat front and center as the newly minted breed for 2024 (Kanji, the Lancashire Heeler) was introduced, encouraged contestants in a first-ever canine smile-off, learned more about RockyFest, interacted with therapy dogs and with Frei and his dog (True Dat).

Additionally, we were given details about the sixth annual National Dog Show Therapy Symposium at Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ on December 8th, then we piped down and waxed attentive to hear all attending pups sworn in and inducted as B.A.R.K. Rangers by Valley Forge National Historic Park Rangers. Inductees (or inpuptees?) were festooned with green bandanas featuring badge-like insignia, identifying them as certified B.A.R.K. Rangers from Valley Forge Park Alliance. I cannot make this fun up!

I also can barely type this with a straight face, recalling my Tillie Rose’s antics during what was for us both a super-spesh and memorable couple of hours. Tee-row was all beside herself, full on dopamine-charged with so much stimulus and attention. Surrounded by a myriad of new doggies with which to interact and equal number of hoomans [sic] to love up, it’s no wonder she slept soundly on the drive home.

Later, when I watched the NBC10 video clip on YouTube, I heard a distinctive background bark during the time Frei was being interviewed and remembered the timing had coincided with my girl demanding pieces of roast beef from my luncheon sandwich. I joked to friends that I should’ve submitted an invoice for $1,000 per yap to the station for the authentic soundtrack she provided at the dog-centric event.

All kidding aside, the show has so much to offer. Its appeal reaches far and wide; entry dogs hail from 40 states and Washington, D.C. as well as five foreign countries. And if you want to know more about the charming “smile off” contest between Kanji and Prince Louis as well as the NDS itself, check out my adventure and photographic retelling in the snaps below.

I’m already looking forward, Maker-willing, to the 2025 National Dog Show. Apparently, both covering the event for social media and watching it at home on Thanksgiving Day are becoming entrenched holiday traditions in my world. What a magical combination for which I am exceedingly grateful and do not plan to monkey with.

I recently read a passage somewhere that seemed to fit this very spot in my story. “Embrace the old, create the new, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, connection and the beauty of traditions, old and new.” Oh, and dogs! Always dogs. They are my favorite people!

If you haven’t yet been to the National Dog Show, the 2025 event is no doubt in the planning stages. Visit The National Dog Show – Presented by Purina for more information and/or read my 2023 article at National Dog Show Brings Good Boys and Girls to Greater Philadelphia Expo Center – Explore With Cassie.

Meet Wasabi, a five-year-old Bullmastiff member of the NDS Therapy Dog Ambassador Team and RockyFest representative (recall Sly Stallone’s character’s pet and training partner, Butkus?).

Owner Alice Hoersch introduces Dyson, a Sheltie and retired AKC champion turned therapy dog, to press and media folks.

Michele Pich built and runs the Shreiber Family Pet Therapy Program at Rowan University. She’s pictured here with Ralphie.

Prince Louis is a six-year-old Samoyed from Clementon and one of two “smile-off” contest competitors. Owner Amy-Kiel Green also displays a fetching smile.

Paws a moment and gaze upon this adorable ball fluff that is King Edward, the 11-week-old Samoyed puppy and grandson of Prince Louis.

Kanji is the new dog on the block this year, as he makes his National Dog Show debut as part of the Herding Group.

From Left, five-year-old Kanji and owner Kim McIntyre of Cape Cod, Mass., pose with Gladwyne, Pa.-based writer-photographer Sharon Kozden and her beloved Tillie Rose.

Kanji, the five-year-old Lancashire Heeler, accepts his award, erm, doggy-style!

Turns out the judges couldn’t definitively determine which much grinned best, so both “smile-off” competitors won fair and square. Prince Louis smiles in agreement at the decision.

Murphy and his owner Mike get into the act. Handsome lads! Mike made fast friends with Tillie Rose.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel True Dat looks to dad David Frei, who is marking his milestone 50th year as show host.

From Left, show host David Frei with True Dat meets writer-photographer Sharon Kozden and her Tillie Rose Kozden at the 2024 National Dog Show’s Press Preview, which was held on November 12th at the Hilton Garden Inn Valley Forge in Oaks, Pa. Media were invited to bring their pooches, hence this dog-lightful meetup!

Attending media were served lunch at the Hilton Garden Inn Valley Forge/Oaks. These tasty wraps were soft and fresh outside, savory and crunchy inside.

Quite the impressive luncheon spread was proffered by hotel staff.

Despite the bountiful layers of roast beef in these sandwiches, I was lucky to get even a taster, as Tillie Rose demanded her portion and then some.

This impressive-looking pass allowed me access to any- and everywhere at the show.

And they’re back … for a 23rd year (photo from show’s brochure cover)!

Not sure if I imagined it; however, this year’s crowd size seemed at least doubled 2023’s as evidenced by how far away I ended up parking on Saturday’s show-taping date from this, the Expo Center’s entrance.

Signage seen at Expo Center entrance.

The Main Stage area is where I enterws with my press pass and tried to locate a spot from which to shoot photos.

Just behind these golden statues is the entrance area from which all competing dogs enter the Group and Best-In-Show Ring.

In the middle of the show ring, the dog group sign is flanked by 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th place stations, where each dog will be displayed after judges render their decisions.

Bushels of gloriously vibrant red, white and yellow roses are staged abundantly in and around the ring.

Behind-the-scenes in the Event Production area.

A new “breed” of camera technology was introduced for 2024. Skycams on pulleys are cable-suspended and computer-controlled.

From Left, True Dat, host David Frei and host John O’Hurley are seen ringside. True is Frei’s dog and perhaps a potential Reserve Host?

Coveted awards gleam.

Putting the finishing touches on show spoils.

The Coton de Tulear, which was described as intelligent, quirky and rather clown-like, sports a cotton-like texture and originated in Madagascar. Tulear is a city in Madagascar.

The Maltese has been known for at least 28 centuries! The breed is gentle, playful, affectionate and bears a silken coat.

The Lowchen breed name is German for “little lion.” They’re known to need a lot of attention and interaction and prefer not to be alone too long.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is described as a very friendly dog without shyness or bad temper. Beautiful coat features chestnut on pearly white coloring.

The Sealyham Terrier originated in Wales as a working dog and is considered proud, compact and sturdy.

Another Sealyham Terrier by the name of Stache won last year’s Best in Show title. Will Lulu here follow in Stache’s paw pads?

The Miniature Bull Terrier is a bred-down version–as its name implies–of the larger bull terrier.

Meet Bethany, the Miniature Bull Terrier. “He’s a happy little boy.”

Alert, brave and feisty, The Norfolk Terrier is one of two of the smallest terriers with the Norwich Terrier being the other.

Loving and loyal, the Colored Bull Terrier.

Here’s the other small Terrier breed, The Norwich. Norfolk have drop ears, while Norwich Terriers have “prick” ears. Ears up or down, they’re both so dang cute.

Fun-loving, affectionate and companionable are some temperament traits of The Dandie Dinmont Terrier.

From Left, co-owner and handler Gabriel Rangel with Welsh Terrier Verde and Judge Dr. H. Scott Kellogg. According to Rangel, Verde is “one of the best Welsh Terriers I have seen.”

Playful, protective and spirited, the Irish Terrier was originally bred as a farm dog.

Verde, the Welsh Terrier won the Terrier Group, one of seven groups competing for the coveted Best in Show. Some 30+ terriers strode onto the show ring.

The Fox Terrier. The Wire Fox Terrier, I read, is characterized by a hardy constitution and cocksure personality.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is regarded as hardworking, independent and athletic.

Which breed never needs an intro? Correct: The Standard Poodle or “Stan Poo” as I call them when working at the Shop. Always know that any sort of poodle is intelligent, first and foremost. My Tillie Rose is a Poodle mix, so I’ve empirical evidence. Here’s Desi and handler.

Smooth Fox Terriers adore pleasing and are devoted to their humans. Real people-pleasers!

Meet the Skye Terrier, considered more serious, introspective and dignified than most terriers.

Cousin of The Wizard of Oz’s Toto, the Cairn Terrier.

The Cairn Terrier gives body profile.

The Bichon Frise is ever playful, gentle and keen to snuggle. They are also described as attention-seeking. Lacey, you are adorbs!

This adorable Bichee [sic} got the crowd cheering with her show antics, momentarily distracted with a cute little dance and twirl.

Originally bred for hunting in England, The Parson Russell Terrier is intelligent, bold and confident.

Loyal, agile and spirited, The Glen of Imaal Terrier is one of four Irish terrier breeds.

The Russell Terrier is typically described as bright, boisterous and fearless.

The Manchester Terrier is keen and alert and was originally bred to control rats.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier a.k.a. the Staffy or Stafford are gentle, docile and sweet-natured, despite their macho-looking exterior.

The American Hairless Terrier hails from Louisiana and is reportedly hypoallergenic (for those with allergies), smart, inquisitive and playful.

Devoted companion, the Bedlington Terrier.

A Terrier-Bulldog cross, The American Staffordshire Terrier.

Woot: it’s a party of Terriers with owners, handlers and cameramen all up in their collective grills. Show me the bite!

Is there a Lap Dog breed? If so, meet Best in Show!

From Left, host Dave Frei, writer Sharon Kozden and host John O’Hurley pose for a shot. These host are super busy on show taping day; I was fortunate to have a pictorial memento from 2023’s event. This year’s photo was completely blurred by a stranger who took the shot, alas.

I cannot not include this throwback 2023 NDS Show snap I took of Comet, the bejeweled and bedazzling Shih Tzu. Did you know that Comet won the Toy Group at 2024’s prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show? His given name is actually … sit for it … Hallmark Jolei Out Of This World.

What a very pretty human-canine duo.

Here’s a crate chockful of teeny-weeny cuteness.

I have no idea what this woman was saying but couldn’t stop watching her say it. Behold the quintessential look of a dog show owner or handler.

The Tibetan Spaniel is an assertive, spunky small dog that also is known as a “Tibbie.”

The Bergamasco Shepherd is an Italian breed of sheepdog bred for herding sheep and cattle. They are described as “bright, loving, loyal and trainable with a dash of mountain-dog independence.”

The Finnish Lapphund is a “tough, substantial reindeer-herder” that is known to be “tolerant and patient with childrens’ behavior and family-friendly.”

The Bedlington Terrier favors a little lamb and is named after the mining town of Bedlington in Northumberland, England.

Just a bay-bee. They’re always just our bay-bees.

Secure and safe in my royal-purple poof pod.

I just wanted to pass the little girl a tiny pooch to hold.

This sweet little Cavalier King Charles Spaniel appears to be a therapy dog.

Holly is such a sweet girl with mesmerizing eyes and a loving way about her.

I fell truly, madly, deeply in love with Holly’s eyes.

There are around 12 dog breeds with wrinkly faces and bodies (the Shar-Pei is the crinkliest of the lot), so mind where you walk at a dog show.

The Bearded Collie is a “fluffy, medium-sized dog from Scotland” with an “intelligent, lively, alert and hardy” temperament.

Tools of the trade.

From Bern, Switzerland, the Bernese Mountain Dog from the Working Group is big, powerful and built for hard work.

Posh lil’ princess in polka-dotted underoos, silver-sequined dress and pink bows in hair. Fetching!

Benched shows permit attendees to interact with the dogs and pose questions to the breeder-owner-handlers. Clearly, this pup is feeling the love.

The beauty of a benched show, and the kiddos just love the interaction and connecting with the dogs; the feelings are definitely mutual.

It’s common at dog shows (for grooming and presentation) to see dogs’ hair pulled back with hair ties or rubber bands.

Dalmatians are easily breed-recognizable because of their characteristic white coats marked with dark-colored spots.

Just precious.

I really loved watching this dandy Dandie prance in the show ring.

This Dandie Dinmont Terrier originated from the border regions of England and Scotland. By nature, the breed is not a pack animal and will usually bond to one person.

The graceful, gentle and owner-bonded Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Beachy waves!

A Berger Picard named Rupert took first place in the Herding Group; this dog looks decidedly like him. Is that you, Rupert?

Seriously stunning Siberian Husky.

The dogs enjoy checking us out as much as we do them.

Plumb tuckered pupper.

This beautiful pair of Samoyeds grace the show with their thick, white, double-layered coats. When a “Sammie” is at the grooming shop where I work occasionally, this breed’s hair coats the room when being dried, making it appear like Everest’s summit!

 

Food vendors satisfied and sated the crowds.

I just had to repost this snap I took from the 2023 show. Comet the Shih Tsu won Westminster Kennel Club’s in the Toy Group for 2024! Real name:  Hallmark Jolei Out Of This World. Congrats, Comet!

I’m a dog mom, so yeah, taking this snap was “ruff,” but thankful for these beautiful options.

For the Bichon Frise owner who has everything. Can you imagine a tree decorated solely with these Bichon bombs?!

Gorgeous feline “sneaks” into dog show. Vendors’ wares ran the soup-to-nuts gamut.

Dog is Great. Dog is Good. Dog is Everything. Might I add … Dog is LOVE