NBC's 'National Dog Show Presented By Purina' Offers Online Coverage of All 160-Plus Breeds

Full TV special online at www.NationalDogShow.com; Social media Facebook game also launches Thanksgiving Day

NEW YORK, Nov. 23, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- America's dog lovers, including those hopelessly devoted to specific breeds, will be able to get up close and personal Thursday as their favorites are judged at "The National Dog Show Presented by Purina." The NBC Thanksgiving Day TV special (Noon – 2 p.m. in all times zones) will be complemented by video of the group judging of all 160-plus breeds at www.NationalDogShow.com.

The two-hour broadcast special, featuring the commentary of host John O'Hurley and expert commentator David Frei, will be available online after 2 p.m. ET.  It will also be available beginning Friday, Nov. 26, on Hulu.com.

Because of heavy interest from breed enthusiasts around the world, www.NationalDogShow.com offers a look at every dog in the group competition, featuring the walks, examination and judging of all the breed-winning canines.  The online video will include six new AKC-recognized breeds with expert commentary from veteran announcer and dog show expert Wayne Ferguson.

Also on Thanksgiving Day, NBC and 4mm Games is introducing a social game for dog lovers on Facebook and other digital platforms. "Dog Show Friends" will be a virtual community in which participants can adopt, nurture and train puppies while interacting with other dogs and owners and being rewarded for responsible pet ownership. The game can be accessed via www.facebook.com/nationaldogshow and at  www.dogshowfriends.com.

A total audience of nearly 20 million viewers tunes in to "The National Dog Show" each year, and the 2010 edition again follows the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. It is America's most watched dog show, featuring the Group and Best in Show competition plus features and vignettes about the wonderfulness of man's best friend through the eyes of O'Hurley and Frei.

"The National Dog Show attracts all generations and has become a holiday tradition because families can watch the show together at home," said Jon Miller, Executive Vice President of NBC.  "There is also growing interest in all of the different breeds, and we recognize the importance of providing online coverage of each one."

The online coverage will also feature TV personality Mary Carillo, who will provide separate on-site features and interviews from the show.

SOURCE National Dog Show Presented by Purina