Puppy Bowl XXII 2026: A Furry Tradition Returns Before Super Bowl LX
As anticipation builds for the year's biggest football showdown, Puppy Bowl XXII is set to deliver its annual dose of playful competition and heartwarming cuteness. This beloved event, airing each Super Bowl Sunday, has become a cherished tradition where fans gather to watch adoptable puppies tumble, chase toys, and score touchdowns on a specially designed field. The 2026 edition promises to continue this legacy with an energetic display of rescue dogs seeking their forever homes.
When and Where to Watch Puppy Bowl XXII
Puppy Bowl XXII will take place on Sunday, February 8, 2026, starting at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time and 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time. This timing provides the perfect family-friendly lead-in to Super Bowl LX, which kicks off later that evening. The two-hour broadcast is strategically scheduled to conclude well before the main football coverage begins, ensuring viewers can enjoy both events without overlap.
For those wondering how to tune in, the special will be broadcast live on its longtime home, Animal Planet, and simulcast across various Discovery networks. This wide distribution ensures accessibility for homes with different cable packages. Additionally, Puppy Bowl XXII will be available for streaming on the Discovery+ website and app, offering both live viewing and on-demand options for subscribers. Many live TV streaming services that include Animal Planet or TBS are also expected to carry the broadcast, making it easy to watch via television or online platforms.
Meet the Adoptable Stars of Puppy Bowl XXII
This year's lineup is one of the largest and most diverse in Puppy Bowl history, featuring over 150 dogs from 72 shelters and rescue organizations. These adorable participants will be divided into the traditional rival teams, Team Ruff and Team Fluff, with standout players selected as official starters. Among the crowd-pleasers to watch are Litchi, Lobster Roll, Miss Coco, Oscar, RuPaw, and Benito, each bringing their unique personalities to the field.
The event will include special attractions like the Puppy Combine, where dogs showcase their skills ahead of the main competition. A popular halftime feature will also return, with a focus on senior dogs available for adoption, highlighting the importance of giving older pets loving homes. Throughout the broadcast, viewers can expect a blend of on-field antics, heartwarming adoption stories, and plenty of laughter.
Why Puppy Bowl XXII Matters
Beyond the entertainment, Puppy Bowl XXII serves a crucial purpose by promoting pet adoption and raising awareness for rescue organizations. The event has proven to be a favorite chill, smile-inducing watch on Super Bowl Sunday, appealing to audiences of all ages. Whether you're a football fan or simply an animal lover, this program offers a lighthearted break from the intensity of sports coverage, all while supporting a noble cause. So mark your calendars for February 8, 2026, and get ready to cheer on these furry athletes as they play their way into hearts and homes.
