12,000 Attend A Historic National Dog Show In Oaks

OAKS, PA — Some 12,000 people attended the National Dog Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks recently while 24.6 million watched the broadcast, smashing the all time records for the celebrated canine competition.

Belgian sheepdog Soleil came home with the "Best in Show" title, beating out an accomplished field of some of the proudest showdogs in the nation.

The attendance boost was an 11 percent increase over last year, while organizers cited NBC Research that indicated the television ratings also were an 11 percent increase.

"The thousands of families, dog lovers and breed enthusiasts filled the venue to enjoy 13 rings of breed judging plus agility dog performances and therapy dog attractions amidst the whirlwind of 75 vendors and Purina giveaways," organizers said.

The Kennel Club of Philadelphia, which organizes the show, added that the average family spent about three hours at the show. Tickets were $20.

Soleil entered the competition as the nation's top-ranked Belgian sheepdog. Judges praised Soleil's "flawless movement, elegance, and undeniable presence."

Other dogs rounding out the Best in Show competition included:

• Miniature schnauzer Baby Joe – Terrier Group
• Shih Tzu Comet– Toy Group
• Bichon Frise Neal – Non-Sporting Group
• Giant schnauzer Dino – Working Group
• English setter Tyler – Sporting Group
• American Foxhound George – Hound Group, who earned Reserve Best in Show

The show will return with a special event in 2026 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of America's founding.