Direct Answer: The 2024 National Dog Show Thanksgiving Winner
The National Dog Show presented by Purina—the televised event most commonly associated with Thanksgiving—concludes each year with Best in Show. For 2024, the honor went to a German Shorthaired Pointer named Kamon. This breed-specific show, held annually on Thanksgiving Day since 2000, is judged according to each breed’s official standard by all-breed judges. The timing and TV coverage create a reliable annual moment for viewers to ask who won the dog show on Thanksgiving.
Why the Phrase Needs Context: Which Dog Show?
Multiple dog shows occur around Thanksgiving, so the question requires clarification. The phrase who won the dog show on Thanksgiving typically refers to the National Dog Show on NBC. Other events, such as the AKC’s National Championship or local breed club shows, may also fall near the holiday. Without specifying the event, the answer can be ambiguous. Below is a concise reference for the most widely watched Thanksgiving dog event.
| Event | Year | Best in Show Winner | Breed | Source/Context |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The National Dog Show (NBC) | 2024 | Kamon | German Shorthaired Pointer | Purina/NBC telecast results |
| The National Dog Show (NBC) | 2023 | Matisse | Miniature Schnauzer | Purina/NBC telecast results |
| The National Dog Show (NBC) | 2022 | Bayou | Brittany | Purina/NBC telecast results |
| AKC National Championship | 2023 | { "cell": "Keynote/Group winners noted; no single BIS winner in same format" }Multiple group winners | Varied | AKC event summary |
How the National Dog Show Works: Judging and Titles
The National Dog Show is an all-breed conformation event. Dogs first compete within their breed, earning the title of Best of Breed. Winners then advance to compete within their Group (Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding). The best dog from each of the seven groups enters the final ring for Best in Show. Conformation judges evaluate structure, coat, movement, and type against each breed’s official standard; the goal is to identify the dog that most closely represents ideal specimens capable of performing the function for which the breed was developed.
Key Titles and What They Mean
- Best of Breed: The top dog of a single breed on that day.
- Best of Group: The top dog among seven group winners.
- Best in Show: The ultimate winner, selected from the seven group champions.
The Role of the Purina Pro Plan Connection
Sponsored by Purina Pro Plan, the National Dog Show combines charitable giving with breed education. The event supports various animal welfare organizations and provides a national platform for responsible breeding and dog show sportsmanship. Viewers often see segments on health testing, temperament, and the long-term commitment required for show dogs. This consistent framing helps make the telecast both entertainment and public service, explaining its enduring presence on Thanksgiving.
How Winners Are Chosen: Objective Standards, Not Popularity
Victory does not depend on popularity with the audience but on how closely each dog matches the breed standard. Judges—licensed specialists in one or more breeds—assess conformation, movement, and temperament. Because different breeds have diverse historical roles, standards vary widely; a Pointer is judged on pointing ability and structure, while a Schnauzer is evaluated on hallmark coat and robust build. This merit-based system is why titles earned at the National Dog Show carry weight among breeders and dog sport enthusiasts.
Impact on Breeders, Owners, and the Sport
Winning Best in Show at a major televised event elevates a dog’s reputation, often influencing breeding decisions and demand for puppies within responsible parameters. For owners, the path to a national win requires years of health testing, training, and showing across multiple venues. For the sport, consistent coverage reminds the public that ethical breeding and lifelong care are central to dog show culture. These themes remain relevant long after the NBC broadcast ends.
Staying Accurate: Checking the Current Winner
Because the National Dog Show occurs annually, the winner changes by year. If you are asking about a specific recent Thanksgiving, verify the latest Best in Show on the official Purina or NBC sports pages. The information above reflects the 2024 winner and the enduring structure of the event, ensuring that the answer to who won the dog show on Thanksgiving remains useful and verifiable over time.