Dogs – thousands of them, from Chihuahuas to ginormous Great Danes – met in Orlando, Florida compete in the American Kennel Club’s annual flagship event, formally called the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin.
No matter where you’re located, you can stream the show from the comfort of your living room.
The 2021 AKC National Championship will air on ABC as a three-hour special on Sunday, January 2, 2022 at 2 p.m. ET.
As the largest dog show in North America, more than 5,000 dogs entered from all 50 states and 13 countries. Dogs will compete for multiple titles across various events and more than $150,000 in prize money, the largest in the world of dog shows.
“It is our honor to be able to continue the tradition of this magnificent show and host top canine competitors from around the world,” said Dennis Sprung, Show Chairman and President and CEO of the AKC. “The athleticism displayed across our sports by these well-bred dogs is truly a sight to see, and we’re thrilled to return to ABC to televise our signature event, the crowning of America’s champion, for dog enthusiasts.”
Hosting the broadcast is AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo and noted sportscaster Carolyn Manno.
Dog Show Basics
The biggest part of the multi-day event is the AKC National Championship Groups and Best in Show. So what exactly are you watching? If you’re new to watching dog shows, let’s go over the basics. Most dog shows take place in a single day, following a pyramid-style competition format.
At the first, broadest level, dogs of each breed compete against each other, with one earning the coveted Best of Breed ribbon.
Later in the day, those breed winners compete in their respective groups. The AKC recognizes seven groups, in which dogs are categorized based on a similar function or history.
Sporting dogs, for example, were bred to hunt birds on land or water; Toy dogs evolved to provide companionship in a pint-size package. (If you are doing research on a future family member, focusing on a particular group can help you zero in on the temperament, activity level, and sometimes size that’s right for you.) Each group judge then places four winners, though only first place continues on to Best in Show.
Can’t Wait?
Check out last year’s show in the meantime, or stream the action-packed AKC Agility Invitational Finals!
The AKC National Championship is right around the corner, and you don’t want to miss the action! Tune in to ABC on December 31 at 2 p.m. ET to see who’s crowned Best in Show.
Did you miss last year’s show? You can watch the 2022 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin on demand on AKC.tv!