It’s no secret. I’m a big fan of dogs. I love learning about all the different breeds, each of their temperaments, characteristics, and quirky personalities. I don’t think I’ll ever own two of the same breed, because there are just so many different breeds of dogs I want to get to know!

A few years back, I was fortunate enough to attend the Westminster Kennel Club Dog show and document the contestants – from behind the scenes to taking the stage as “Best in Show.” Since then, I’ve had even more of a fascination with dog shows, where the best of the best are gathered all in one place for you to learn more about each breed.

This weekend, I was lucky enough to be sent behind the scenes to the taping of the 6th annual Beverly Hills Dog Show, presented by Purina.

First of all, if you’ve never watched a dog show and are a dog lover, change that! The Beverly Hills Dog Show airs on May 17 @ 8pm ET/PT and 7pm CT/MT, the perfect opportunity host your own pet-friendly watch party, gather your friends and pooches, and learn all about the different dogs that are out there.

While we were on the ground behind the scenes, we had the opportunity to meet dogs and their owners or handlers while they are backstage getting groomed and ready for the ring. Check out some of these absolute cuties!

I have to start off with my absolute favorite breeds, of course. I ran towards every Samoyed and Corgi I could spot through the crowd.

Chase is a Pembroke Welsh Corgi pup from Southern California. This was his first dog show and he was here to observe and watch his fellow corgis compete!

This is Joleen the Pug. Look at just how perfect her little squished face is!

We met some gorgeous Golden Retrievers, Keeshonds, Australian Shepherds, and more!

The way the competition works is that each breed has various entrants, and individual breeds are judged against each other to determine the dog who is “best of breed.”

This means the judge is basically looking at the details of appearance in each dog – meaning their structure and details of each breed based on that breed’s standard. The dog that “conforms” to the most items of that description in that breed is picked as the winner!

During the show, you’ll see the best of each breed compete in a ring and be judged live to determine who is ultimately the best in the entire Beverly Hills Dog Show.

It’s such a delight to see pups strutting their stuff on the red carpet, showing off their blow outs, and interacting with their handlers in the ring. Throughout the show, you’ll also hear the announcer talk about each breed’s brief history and unique characteristics.

Don’t forget to tune in on Sunday, May 17 on NBC at 8pm ET/PT and 7pm CT/MT!