One of the oldest traditions in the United States will take place this week as purebred dogs from everywhere will be convening for the 136th annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

According to westminsterkennelclub.org, the Kentucky Derby is the only longer running, continuously held American sporting event. 

There are several events within breeds and types of dog, but the grand prize is the Best in Show. In 2011, Scottish Deerhound GCH Foxcliffe Hickory Wind won the top prize.

 

Where: Madison Square Garden. New York City, New York

When: Monday, Feb. 13 and Tuesday, Feb. 14

Watch: USA, CNBC, streamed live at Animal Planet.

TV Schedule:

Date   Time (EST)   TV Event
Monday, Feb. 13 8-9 p.m. USA  Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting and Herding Groups
Monday, Feb. 13   9-11 p.m. CNBC   Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting and Herding Groups  
Tuesday, Feb. 14   8-11 p.m. USA Sporting, Working and Terrier Groups, Best In Show

If you live in the Pacific Time Zone, please note the following, per the show's official website.

To our West Coast viewers: Please note that the West Coast telecast is delayed for your time zone. Since results are posted to our Web site as they occur live, if you want to enjoy the drama of the moment, please avoid the Westminster Web site after 5 p.m. Pacific Time on each evening. 

 

Noteworthy Items:

Which new breed is most intriguing?

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According to the event's website, six new breeds will be making their Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show debut this year. They are:

American English Coonhound

Cesky Terrier

Entlebucher Mountain Dog

Finnish Lapphund

Norwegian Lundehund

Xoloitzcuintli

 

What to Expect:

The full field has not yet been released, but the best thing about this event is its unpredictability. History shows that any dog can win Best in Show, as no breed stands out when looking at the past champions.

One thing that is relatively consistent is that small dogs tend to have an advantage in the Best in Show competition. They are likely the ones to watch close throughout. 

 

Other:

You can also follow the show on Twitter and via Facebook.