I was surprised to find out that that Philadelphia has been involved in the world of purebred dogs since 1876 through the Kennel Club of Philadelphia (KCP) and its predecessor clubs (which have presented dog shows since 1879).  Did you also know that our Philadelphia club even predates the American Kennel Club (AKC) which wasn’t organized until 1884?

The KCP hosted its first dog show in 1912, was elected a member of the AKC in February 1913, and is still thriving to this day.  A little history:   The KCP shows were suspended from 1928 through 1932, the time of the Great Depression. The shows resumed in 1933 and have been held annually ever since. For most of that period, the shows were staged in December at thePhiladelphia Civic Center.

So, what is the difference between a “benched” dog show and a “non-benched” dog show?  Well, a “benched” show is where the dogs are required to be on assigned benches when they are not being shown in competition.  This way the attendees, breeders, handlers get to meet all of the participating dogs.  It’s a great way to encourage everyone to interact, ask questions, and share information about the various breeds present at the show.  A “non-benched” dog show, on the other hand, does not require all dogs to remain “benched” throughout the competition.  Did you know that The National Dog Show is one of the few remaining and oldest benched dog shows in theUnited States, held annually since 1933?  Only six benched shows remain in the United States.

I watch The National Dog Show every year and I just love watching the different breeds gracefully parade around and strut their stuff.  This year, The National Dog Show is being held on Saturday, November 19th at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (taped for telecast nationwide on Thanksgiving Day by NBC).  Sunday, November 20th’s show offers a full slate of canine competitions, enhanced athletic dog exhibitions plus family-friendly activities and hands-on fun.  The show is hosted by John O’Hurley, former Seinfeld star, winner of Dancing with the Stars, and purebred dog owner, along with Mary Carillo, and with expert commentary by David Frei.

Want to go?  You can enter to WIN a pair of tickets just by leaving a comment below telling me which breed you want to win Best in Show and why.  Share it on twitter and facebook and you’ll get an extra entry!  Just be sure to tell me in the comments and your twitter/facebook handle.  Entries must be received by Monday, November 7th at noon.  Two winners will be selected using random.org!  Good luck everyone!