150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show 2026: Schedule, Tickets, and How to Watch

The global canine community is currently focusing its attention on a monumental milestone: the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Scheduled to take place on February 2nd and 3rd, 2026, this sesquicentennial celebration is not just a competition; it is an enduring symbol of excellence, heritage, and the sophisticated evolution of purebred dogs over the last century and a half.

A Legacy of Excellence in New York City

As the second-longest continuously held sporting event in the United States, surpassed only by the Kentucky Derby, Westminster holds a unique place in sporting history. For the 2026 edition, the club returns to its roots in New York City, utilizing both the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center for daytime breed judging and the legendary Madison Square Garden for the prestigious evening group sessions and the crowning of Best in Show.

Detailed Event Schedule for February 2026

• Monday, February 2: The event kicks off with intensive Breed Judging for the Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding groups at the Javits Center. This is where thousands of champions are narrowed down by expert judges based on specific breed standards.


• Monday Evening: The excitement moves to Madison Square Garden for the Group Judging, where the top representatives of the first four groups compete for a spot in the final lineup.


• Tuesday, February 3: The second day features Breed Judging for the Sporting, Working, and Terrier groups. This day is known for high-energy performances and some of the most popular breeds in the world.


• The Grand Finale: On Tuesday night, the atmosphere at the "World's Most Famous Arena" reaches a fever pitch with the Junior Showmanship Finals, followed by the ultimate selection of the 150th Best in Show winner.

Why the 150th Anniversary Matters

This 2026 show is specifically curated to honor the historical impact of the Westminster Kennel Club. With over 200 breeds recognized, the show provides a platform for responsible dog ownership and the preservation of canine health and genetics. Spectators can expect special commemorative exhibitions and a gala atmosphere that only a 150th-year celebration can provide.

How to Watch and Follow Live

For those unable to attend in person at Madison Square Garden, the event will be broadcasted globally via FOX Sports (FS1 and FS2). Digital streaming will be available for every single breed judging session, ensuring that fans of specific rare breeds don't miss a second of the action. This year's coverage is expected to break viewership records as the world tunes in to see which dog will be etched into the history books as the 150th champion.