You’ve got the wings ordered. The couch is cleared of laundry. But if you’re like most people, you aren’t actually waiting for the guys in pads to start hitting each other. You’re waiting for the ears. The paws. The inevitable "unnecessary roughness" call that involves a golden retriever puppy tripping over its own feet.
Knowing what time does puppy bowl start is basically the most important logistical piece of your February schedule.
For 2026, the main event—Puppy Bowl XXII—is officially set to kick off at 2 p.m. ET (11 a.m. PT) on Sunday, February 8.
It’s the 22nd year of this beautiful, chaotic mess, and honestly, it’s only getting bigger. If you’ve never watched, it’s three hours of adoptable puppies "competing" for the Lombarky Trophy. I use the term "competing" loosely because half the time they’re just napping in the end zone or trying to eat the turf.
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But there’s a lot more to the schedule than just that 2 p.m. start time.
Don't Miss the Pre-Game: The Kickoff Show
Most people make the mistake of tuning in right at 2:00. Don't do that.
The Puppy Bowl XXII Kickoff Show starts at 1 p.m. ET (10 a.m. PT).
This is where you get the real "scouting" reports. Dan Schachner, the legendary referee entering his 15th year, joins lead trainer Victoria Schade to look at the prospects. They’ve actually started doing a "Puppy Combine" now. It’s exactly what it sounds like: puppies being tested for speed, agility, and—most importantly—how much they like squeaky toys.
Last year’s combine was a total disaster in the best way possible. This year, they’re looking at ten specific prospects to see who makes the final cut for the starting lineups of Team Ruff and Team Fluff.
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Where to Watch (It’s Everywhere)
One of the best things about the Puppy Bowl is that Warner Bros. Discovery basically puts it on every channel they own. You don’t have to hunt for it. You can catch the simulcast on:
- Animal Planet (The original home)
- Discovery Channel
- TBS
- truTV
If you’ve cut the cord, you aren’t left out. It’s streaming live on Max and Discovery+. If you have a basic Max subscription, you’re good to go.
The 2026 Lineup: 150 Pups and a Huge Milestone
This year is actually record-breaking. We’re looking at 150 puppies coming from 72 different shelters. These dogs aren't just from the local SPCA; they’re coming from 30 different states, Puerto Rico, and even the British Virgin Islands.
The big story for 2026 is the inclusion of 15 special needs dogs.
We’re talking about pups like Brûlée, a deaf Boston Terrier-Frenchie mix, and Eleanor, who is both deaf and vision impaired. Seeing these dogs play is usually the highlight of the whole broadcast because it reminds everyone that "differently-abled" doesn't mean "less than." They usually hold their own just fine against the high-energy labs and hounds.
The New "Senior" Matchup
If you think puppies are too high-energy, 2026 is introducing something that honestly should have happened years ago. During the halftime show—traditionally dominated by the Kitty Half-Time Show—they are introducing a Senior Dog Exhibition.
It’s Team Oldies vs. Team Goldies.
While the kittens will still be watching from the skyboxes (classic cat move), the senior dogs will get their own moment on the field. It’s a huge push to show people that older dogs in shelters are just as deserving of a home as the tiny ones. Expect a lot of grey muzzles and very slow-motion touchdowns.
Why the Timing Matters for Adoption
The whole reason we care about what time does puppy bowl start isn't just for the cuteness factor. It’s a giant adoption event.
By the time the show airs, many of the "players" have actually already found their forever homes because the show is taped in advance. However, the goal is to drive traffic to the local shelters featured.
Take a look at some of the names to watch this year:
- Chappell Bone: A nod to the pop star, because of course.
- DeVon-tails Smith: A pun on the Philly wide receiver.
- Finch: A beagle from New Jersey who is supposedly a speed demon.
- Lobster Roll: A Bulldog-Border Collie mix that I personally expect to win MVP.
The MVP (Most Valuable Puppy) and the "Underdog" award are the two big prizes. Last year, a dog named Mercury took the Underdog title just for being the "chillest dog on the field." We should all aspire to that level of zen.
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Expert Tips for the Best Viewing Experience
If you’re hosting a watch party, or just sitting with your own dog, here’s how to do it right.
First, sync your snacks. When the puppies get their water break on screen, that’s your cue to hit the kitchen.
Second, follow the "Pupularity Playoffs". Before the game even starts, Discovery runs a bracket on social media. You can vote for your favorite pup. It’s a great way to get invested in Team Ruff (the "bad boys" in orange) or Team Fluff (the "heartthrobs" in blue).
Third, keep your own pet in mind. Some dogs get very confused watching 150 other dogs on a 65-inch screen. If your dog starts barking at the TV, maybe move their bed to the other room. Or, better yet, get them a "stadium snack" so they feel included.
Key Schedule Recap for February 8, 2026:
- 1:00 p.m. ET: The Kickoff Show (The "Puppy Combine" and draft).
- 2:00 p.m. ET: The Main Event (Puppy Bowl XXII starts).
- 3:30 p.m. ET (approx): The Kitty Half-Time Show and the new Senior Dog Exhibition.
- 5:00 p.m. ET: Post-game wraps up and you’ve got about 90 minutes to nap before the NFL Super Bowl kicks off.
Honestly, the Puppy Bowl is the only "big game" where nobody actually loses. Every dog featured gets the spotlight they need to find a home. Even if they spend the whole game chewing on the referee's shoelaces.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check your streaming login: If you’re using Max or Discovery+, make sure your subscription is active at least a day before.
- Visit the official Puppy Bowl website: You can see the full gallery of 150 dogs right now to pick your favorite for the Pupularity Playoffs.
- Contact your local shelter: If the show inspires you to adopt, don’t wait for the broadcast. Shelters are usually busiest the week after the Puppy Bowl, so getting ahead of the curve is a smart move.