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Not Just Pups This Time: 'Puppy Bowl' Embraces Older Dogs
The 22nd Puppy Bowl features 150 dogs from 72 shelters and 16 brand partners supporting pet adoption through multi-network simulcast and new programming elements.
- On Sunday, February 8, 2026, Puppy Bowl XXII airs at 2 p.m. ET on Animal Planet and streams on HBO Max and discovery+, simulcasting across Discovery, TBS, and truTV.
- Faced with an adoption dip, shelters and rescue groups say pandemic-era spikes have recently leveled off as families face economic challenges, while Joseph Boyle, head of content, Discovery Channel, calls the show vital for shelter visibility.
- For the first time, the Puppy Bowl will feature a Pro-Dog Halftime Showdown between Team Oldies and Team Goldies, and 15 special-needs dogs will also compete this year.
- Organizers estimate Puppy Bowl directly led to more than 1,500 adoptions, while viewership grew from nearly 6 million at the debut to 12.8 million last year.
- Josh Kovolenko said the sixteen marketing partners will extend the event via travel activations, limited-edition treats, community events, and adoption initiatives beyond game day, with returning partners including Best Friends Animal Society and NFL Players Association building on the Puppy Bowl's purpose-driven legacy.
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Team Oldies vs. Team Goldies: Seniors dogs to join the fun at this year’s ‘Puppy Bowl’
By Mark Kennedy | Associated Press NEW YORK — This year, the Puppy Bowl isn’t just about puppies. Older dogs are getting some attention, too. There will be a halftime showdown between Team Oldies and Team Goldies, offering a showcase for senior dogs as a reminder that they also need adoption and love. “Everyone wants the puppy and, unfortunately, the reality of puppyhood is it’s tough,” says Victoria Schade, the show’s lead dog trainer and wrang…
·Walnut Creek, United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources50
Leaning Left11Leaning Right1Center30Last UpdatedBias Distribution72% Center
Bias Distribution
- 72% of the sources are Center
72% Center
L 26%
C 72%
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