12 of the Best Photos from the 2017 National Dog Show

By Rachel Crocetti
Updated Nov 23, 2017 @ 2:00 pm
Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

The National Dog Show presented by Purina is an annual affair that hosts the best of the best in every AKC-registered breed. Every Thanksgiving at 2pm EST, you can watch the best fluffballs, the best mop dogs, the best long-legged hounds compete for Best in Show.

And while it's all serious business in the ring, the behind-the-scenes is a total animal house (pun intended). Among the barking rows of dogs getting primped and pampered, you can catch a butt sniff here or a kissing attack there. Here are a few of our absolute favorite moments from the 2017 National Dog Show presented by Purina.

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1 of 12

The Total Mop-Head

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

If it weren't for that huge smile, we might actually mistake this big boy for a real-life mop.

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2 of 12

This Singer and His Background Dancers

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

Can you tell which one of these triplets is the attention-hog? *Eye-roll.*

3 of 12

Mr. Tough Guy Who Is Actually A Softie

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

Even the toughest of pups gets a little nervous before their big moment in the ring. This guy was enjoying a moment of zen before his breed competition.

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4 of 12

The Dog Who Forgot to Put on A Coat This Morning

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

What this Chinese Crested lacks in fur, he makes up for in major attitude.

5 of 12

The Sweetie Who Could Care Less About Winning

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

As long as he gets the maximum number of pats and cuddles throughout the day. So far, so good.

6 of 12

This Little Guy Who Is Just Trying to Keep Up

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

"Listen Mom, these legs are SHORT. Life is a marathon, not a sprint."

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7 of 12

The Dog Whose Hair We're All Jealous Of

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

Honestly, what does she use? Shine serum? A Chi straightener? We need her secrets, ASAP.

8 of 12

The Ultimate Puppy Eyes

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

Listen to "Hungry Eyes" by Eric Carmen while looking at this photo, and you will suddenly find yourself handing over all your snacks.

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"RIdiculously Photogenic Guy," As A Dog

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

Remember that marathon runner who became an instant meme for being really, really photogenic? This is actually him masquerading as a canine.

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10 of 12

It's Never A Bad Moment For A Selfie

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

This dog knows the art of the selfie. A full camera roll later, and she may have found her perfect 'gram.

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The Big Friendly Giant

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

When you've outgrown Dad's lap but you're in denial. 

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And Finally, the Cutest Pair in Dog Show History

Credit: Courtesy Steve Donahue, See Spot Run Photography

A wee little girl with her wee little dog. We're squealing with delight.

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By Rachel Crocetti