When to watch the Westminster Dog Show on TV
The Westminster Dog Show is typically held in mid-to-late January each year. The main show days are usually Wednesday through Friday, with Group judging on Thursday and Best in Show Friday. Times vary by local affiliate and time zone, and the TV schedule can change year to year. To find the exact start time in your area, check the website of the official television partner listed on the Westminster Kennel Club site before the event.
Event overview and broadcast history
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is an annual conformation event held in New York City, generally each January. It is best known for televised Group judging and the final Best in Show. Coverage has long aired on network and cable partners, with scheduling adjusted over time to balance live viewing and event logistics. The show remains one of the most recognized dog events, with TV coverage focused on key days and highlights.
Typical broadcast channels and platforms
Westminster has aired on several major networks and streaming services in recent years. Past and current partners include:
- Fox (broadcast television)
- Nat Geo Wild (cable)
- Peacock (streaming)
Because partners may change, verify the current year’s broadcaster through the Westminster Kennel Club communications or listings the week of the event.
Checking your local TV schedule
Because local affiliate scheduling and time zones affect start times, the best way to confirm when the Westminster Dog Show is on in your area is to check your TV listings or the network’s schedule page. Use your zip code or city to find the exact channel and local start time on the day of the show.
Where to stream and plan your viewing
In addition to TV, Westminster is often available via streaming on the network’s app or connected TV platforms, and full or partial streams may appear on the official partner’s streaming service. If you plan to watch online, ensure you have the network’s app or login for the announced streaming partner, and check for any regional restrictions.
Notable Westminster Dog Show details
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Typical month | January (mid-to-late) | Historical schedule |
| Main show days | Wednesday–Friday; Group judging Thursday; Best in Show Friday | Published event format |
| 2025 dates | Jan 28–30 (Group and Best in Show) | Westminster Kennel Club announcement |
| 2024 dates | Jan 23–25 (Group and Best in Show) | Westminster Kennel Club announcement |
| 2023 dates | Jan 24–26 (Group and Best in Show) | Westminster Kennel Club announcement |
| Usual TV partners | Fox, Nat Geo Wild, Peacock | Past broadcast announcements |
How to confirm the TV schedule each year
Because partners and exact dates can shift, follow these steps close to the event:
- Visit the Westminster Kennel Club website for the official broadcast announcement.
- Check the network’s published TV schedule for your region.
- Use TV listing sites or apps the day before and day of the show to confirm local start times.
Quick comparison of viewing options
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Local broadcast TV | Free; easy to set reminders | May vary by affiliate and time zone |
| Network streaming app | Live stream; often includes post-show coverage | May require login or subscription |
| Cable/satellite package | Access to dedicated pet channels like Nat Geo Wild | May require a paid package |
Set reminders and avoid missing key moments
Group judging is typically Thursday, with Best in Show on Friday evening. Confirm your local start time the day before, and consider recording or streaming the broadcast if you cannot watch live. This ensures you catch the breed groups and the final winner without disruption.