The American Kennel Club (AKC®) is excited to announce that the AKC Diving Dogs Premier Cup Presented by Cosequin® will air on ESPN2. The competition will premiere on Sunday, May 4th at 8pm ET.
This year’s AKC Diving Dogs Premier Cup, held in collaboration with North America Diving Dogs, took place on April 5, 2025, at Mississippi State University. Canine athletes from across the country demonstrated their exceptional abilities in a spirited competition, competing in three Distance divisions—Lap, Elite, and Premier—and two Air Retrieve divisions—Open and Lap. The top three finishers in each category earned well-deserved prize money and national recognition.
“We’re thrilled for the AKC Diving Dogs Premier Cup to return to ESPN,” said Gina M. DiNardo, AKC President and CEO. “The excitement and energy that the dogs give off is palpable, and we’re sure that viewers at home will be on the edge of their seats cheering for their favorite competitors.”
“Supporting this event allows us to celebrate the incredible bond between dogs and their owners,” said Dr. Todd Henderson, DVM, President and CEO of Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, Inc. “I am honored that the American Kennel Club’s Diving Dogs Premier Cup, presented by Cosequin®, was hosted on the campus of my alma mater, Mississippi State University.”
The broadcast will be hosted by Carolyn Manno, including sideline reporting by Phil Murphy, analysis by Jason Rigler and special guest appearance by MSU mascot, Bully the Bulldog.