In 2000, the movie Best in Show dazzled audiences with a witty, comedic plot following five entrants in a national dog show modeled after the acclaimed National Dog Show. The film, written by Christopher Guest and Eugene Levy, even caught the attention of critics, earning a 93 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
The movie was so popular that it even prompted a format change, leading NBC to televise the National Dog Show. Now, 25 years later, the film is still wowing dog-loving audiences, and this year, Purina has a special milestone anniversary surprise for pet parents.
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Bee One of 2,500 Winners
In honor of the 25th anniversary of the movie Best in Show, Purina is giving pet parents the chance to win one of 2,500 Busy Bee commemorative toys. (The Busy Bee was a toy that was originally featured in the film.) The film holds a special place in Purina’s hearts, especially because it led to the televised version of the dog show that the brand now sponsors.
Purina was also the sponsor of an earlier screening at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City, and it launched the sweepstakes at the reunion show.
“Best in Show didn’t just make us laugh – it also showed the passion of the dog show community and just how strong the bond between handlers and their dogs really is, from singing songs about terriers to going to the ends of the earth in search of a beloved lost dog toy,” said Andrea Faccio, president and chief growth officer at Purina in a press release. “The return of Busy Bee honors the origins of The National Dog Show, the legacy and staying power of the film, and the special bond we share with our pets.”
NBC got involved in the broadcast after Jon Miller saw the movie in 2000, realizing that this could be a real winner for the network. He presented the idea to NBC’s executives at the time and secured Purina as a founding partner, leading to the show’s inaugural broadcast in 2001.
“When Best in Show premiered, it gave audiences a hilarious and heartfelt look into the world of competitive dog shows – a world we proudly showcase every Thanksgiving,” said Jon Miller, president of acquisitions and partnerships at NBC Sports. “We’re excited to celebrate the film that inspired our National Dog Show, and to work alongside Purina in showcasing the return of the Busy Bee. Fans of the film and our show won’t want to miss this year’s broadcast, where we’ll have a few Busy Bee-inspired surprises as well.”
To enter to win your very own Busy Bee toy, download the MyPurina app, navigate over to the Rewards Catalog and redeem the National Dog Show Busy Bee Sweepstakes Entry item. Pet parents who have won the coveted prize will be selected on Dec. 12.
This year’s National Dog Show aired on Nov. 27th with the regal Belgian Sheepdog, Soleil, taking home the coveted title of Best in Show. The National Dog Show has seen more than 30,000 purebred dogs compete for the title since its televised debut and rebranding in 2001. The original event, known as The Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Show, dates back to 1879.
Related: Rare Breed With Fewer Than 300 Pups Born Each Year Dazzles Crowd at National Dog Show
This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Dec 5, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.