5 things you didn't know about the National Dog Show

The National Dog Show Presented by Purina celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2011 – don't miss the telecast this Thanksgiving Day, right after the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade on NBC.

And don't miss the chance to impress friends and family with facts and lore about the National Dog Show, including these five things you might not have known about this canine institution…

There are six new American Kennel Club breeds competing this year: the American English Coonhound, the Cesky Terrier, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog, the Finnish Lapphund, the Norwegian Lundehund, and the Xoloitzcuintli (that's pronounced "show-low-itz-quint-lee" – now say it five times fast!).

An Irish Setter, Grand Champion Windntide Mr. Sandman, took home Best in Show honors last year – but to date, a breed has not won Best in Show two times at the National Dog Show.

Visit the National Dog Show Best in Show Hall of Fame

2008's Best in Show winner, a Pointer named CH Cookieland Seasyde Hollyberry (and known as "Holly"), won 10 consecutive Bests In Show and 116 total – making her the winningest Sporting Dog in history!

The National Dog Show is a "benched show." That means that exhibitors remain on site for the day, allowing the public to meet and learn about their favorite canines. There are about six benched shows a year in the U.S., so if you find yourself near one, take advantage: go get to know your favorite breed.

A brief history of the National Dog Show

Best In Show is a fictional “mockumentary” film – but it led indirectly to the National Dog Show we know today, and to John Hurley providing tongue-in-cheek commentary in the booth, alongside David Frei, the voice of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Learn more about how a made-up dog show gave a real one new life

Want to learn even more? Click the links below!

The Wire Fox Terrier: Westminster's winningest breed
Enter your mutt in a mixed-breed dog show
Life on the road for a show dog