what time is the dog show on thanksgiving

Every Thanksgiving, like a fluffy turkey coming out of the oven, my excitement for the National Dog Show simmers just below the surface. It’s a whimsical escape from the culinary chaos and awkward family moments that are part and parcel of the holiday. But I always find myself wondering, "What time does the dog show actually air?" It’s become a bit of a tradition for me, my family, and my golden retriever, Rufus. So, grab a cozy blanket and let me take you on a little journey of Thanksgiving canine festivities!

The Dog Show and My Thanksgiving Ritual

Now, I’d be lying if I said the National Dog Show wasn’t one of the highlights of my Thanksgiving. As soon as I wake up, the smell of stuffing and pie wafts through the air from the kitchen, but my mind is already racing ahead to 12 noon Eastern Time when the festivities officially kick off on NBC. For a couple of hours, I can escape the awkwardness of “So when are you getting a real job?” questions from relatives and immerse myself in a world of wagging tails and fancy coats.

And believe me, if Rufus could talk, he would tell you how much he looks forward to it too. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see an array of breeds strutting their stuff while we snack on roasted vegetables and pumpkin pie?

Planning the Perfect Dog Show Break

Here’s a quirky tip that I’ve picked up over the years: I schedule my Thanksgiving around the dog show. Yup, you heard that right. While I love family traditions, planning around my favorite show has become a tradition of its own. Here’s how I do it:

• Pencil it in: I jot down “National Dog Show - 12 PM” in my planner. Yes, I still use a physical planner because, well, I like the feeling of crossing things out.
• Set a countdown: I often set a countdown timer on my phone. You’d be surprised how that anticipatory thrill can keep me on track during the Thanksgiving hustle.
• Designate responsibilities: My family knows it’s dog show time, so we’ll divvy up who’s in charge of the turkey and who’s stirring the mashed potatoes. The show is MY time!

By the time the clock strikes noon, I’m parked on the couch like a dog ready for a treat—snacks in hand, my fuzzy buddy beside me, and my favorite contestants strutting on the screen.

The Contenders: Who to Watch?

Each year, watching breeds compete is like picking a favorite child, but I have my go-to favorites. For instance, last year, I was rooting for the Samoyed. With that fluffy white coat, they look like little snowballs prancing around! But I've also got a soft spot for the Old English Sheepdog—those adorable face-flops always get a giggle out of me. Their fluffy owlish faces are like the puffs of cotton I use for crafts (but way cuter).

Here's a cheat sheet of some beloved breeds that typically strut their stuff:

• Golden Retriever: Naturally, I’m biased towards Rufus.
• Poodle: Gorgeous and talented, they’ve got a personality to match!
• French Bulldog: Cute in that “Did I just eat the entire Thanksgiving feast?” way.
• Beagle: Who can resist that cute bark?
• Siberian Husky: Majestic and often dramatic, just like family gatherings!

Time Management and Dog Show Distractions

Now, you might think that managing to watch a dog show while preparing a feast sounds like a juggling act. However, over the years, I’ve learned that time management can save the day. Here’s my secret: I use tools like StaffWatcher to help track how I allocate my time. With food prep looming, I set clear boundaries. I’ll watch the first half and then switch gears to finalize the meal before diving back into the extravagant world of canine royalty. It’s super helpful in ensuring nothing burns while I cheer for my favorite dog!

Oh, and can we take a moment to appreciate the commentary? I love listening to the dog trainers and commentators break down the breeds in such elaborate detail. It's like fine dining for dog lovers; I sit there drinking my eggnog and nodding, all while planning Rufus's next grooming session.

Conclusion: Embrace the Dog Show Spirit

As the clock approaches that magical noon mark, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for traditions that bring joy to our lives. The dog show is not just a break from the endless cooking and cleaning; it’s a time for laughter, bonding with my family, and even bonding with Rufus as we cheer for the champions together. This Thanksgiving, I challenge you to make a little room for your own quirky traditions, whether it's a dog show, a family game, or just some couch time with a cozy blanket.

So plan your schedule, set your timer, and don’t forget to catch the National Dog Show at 12 PM Eastern Time this Thanksgiving. You won’t want to miss it! And remember, a little bit of time management—maybe with a tool like StaffWatcher—can help turn the chaotic holiday into a perfectly orchestrated celebration!