Remember that scene in “Brooklyn 99” where the
ever-so-proper Captain Raymond Holt is busy watching the National Dog Show
during Thanksgiving celebrations at Amy’s home with the very quirky Adrian
Pimento? The allure of the National Dog Show is such that even Captain Holt
indulges. While the Macy’s Parade is certainly the highlight of the festivity, the
celebration of furry friends is only a close second.

While the National Dog Show tradition did happen last
year despite the pandemic, this year, the show will return in its full glory.
One of the most well-known dog shows in the world, the National Dog Show was
organised by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia for the first time when it took
place in 1879 and it has become a regular feature since 1933.

While last year the competition was held without
spectators, this time, fully-vaccinated spectators will be allowed. The
National Dog Show will be held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks,
Pa.

How are dogs selected for the show?

The breeds of dogs to feature in the National Dog Show
are selected by the American Kennel Association. A total of 197 breeds are
identified although all may not be represented. In the first round of the
contest, dogs of the same breed are made to compete against one another. The
winner of this contest is named “Best in Breed”.

The breeds are categorised
into seven groups: sporting, working, toy, hound, terrier, non-sporting and
herding. At the group level, the dogs don’t compete against one another, but
rather on how well they fit their breed standards. The winner of each group is
named “First in Breed” who then goes on to compete in the final round for the
Best in Show.