Puppy Bowl, the adorable alternative to the Super Bowl, returns for its 21st year on February 9th, coinciding with Super Bowl Sunday. With a record-breaking 142 puppies participating, this year’s event promises to be bigger and cuter than ever. But beyond the playful pups and heartwarming touchdowns, there’s a complex and carefully orchestrated production that ensures the well-being of the animals and the success of the show. Let’s delve behind the scenes of Puppy Bowl and discover the secrets to its enduring charm.
The Pre-Taped Production: Ensuring Puppy Comfort
Contrary to popular belief, Puppy Bowl is not a live event. Howard Lee, chief creative officer of U.S. Networks and president of Discovery Networks, reveals that the most common question from viewers is whether the show is broadcast live. The answer is a resounding no. Pre-taping allows the production team to prioritize the puppies’ comfort and safety, ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved. Filming takes place in advance, allowing for careful editing and the creation of a seamless three-hour broadcast. This approach ensures that any accidents or puppy fatigue can be addressed without compromising the well-being of the animals.
The Puppy Wrangler: Victoria Schade and Her Team
Victoria Schade, a renowned dog trainer and novelist, serves as the official puppy wrangler for Puppy Bowl. Her primary responsibility is to monitor the puppies’ well-being throughout the filming process. Stationed just off-camera, Schade keeps a watchful eye on the rotating cast of puppies, identifying signs of tiredness or overstimulation. When a puppy needs a break, Schade intervenes, ensuring that each dog gets adequate rest and avoids becoming overwhelmed. Her expertise in canine behavior allows her to anticipate potential issues and proactively manage the puppies’ energy levels.
With 19 years of experience, Schade has honed her skills in reading canine body language. This allows her to intervene before any issues escalate, ensuring a positive and stress-free environment for the puppies. She utilizes a unique repertoire of sounds to capture the puppies’ attention, coaxing them into poses and behaviors necessary for filming. This gentle approach, combined with her keen observation skills, guarantees a happy and engaging experience for the furry participants.
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Puppy Bowl participants Coto and Zinnia showcase the playful energy captured during filming. Animal Planet/WBD
The Referee’s Perspective: Dan Schachner and the “Fluid” Rules
Dan Schachner, the long-time referee of Puppy Bowl, offers further insight into the pre-taping process. He highlights the unpredictable nature of working with puppies, emphasizing the need for flexibility and adaptability. Potty breaks are a frequent occurrence, necessitating pauses in filming for cleanup and ensuring a hygienic environment for the puppies. Schachner humorously refers to these interruptions as “fluid rules,” acknowledging the spontaneous nature of the game. A dedicated team of handlers, likened to a NASCAR pit crew, swiftly cleans up any messes, allowing filming to resume without delay. This meticulous attention to detail ensures a clean and comfortable playing field for the puppies.
The 100% Adoption Rate: Puppy Bowl’s Impact
Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of Puppy Bowl is its remarkable 100% adoption rate. By the time the show airs, all the participating puppies have found their forever homes. This underscores the event’s primary mission: to raise awareness for pet adoption and encourage viewers to open their hearts and homes to animals in need. Schachner emphasizes the significance of this achievement, highlighting the transformative power of the program. Puppy Bowl not only entertains but also serves as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of countless animals.
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Dan Schachner, Puppy Bowl referee, with his adopted assistant referee, Whistle, exemplifies the event’s adoption success. Courtesy of Dan Schachner
Beyond the Players: Showcasing Adoptable Pets
While the puppy players are already adopted, Puppy Bowl also features segments showcasing other rescue animals seeking homes. This broader focus extends the event’s reach, highlighting the plight of various animals in need and encouraging viewers to consider adoption. Lee emphasizes the importance of these segments, recognizing that even a single adoption makes the entire production worthwhile. The program’s commitment to promoting adoption extends beyond the puppies, encompassing a wider range of animals seeking loving homes.
A Behind-the-Scenes Family: Adoption Stories
The impact of Puppy Bowl extends beyond the screen, touching the lives of the production crew as well. Schachner adopted his assistant referee, Whistle, from Puppy Bowl 2024, solidifying their bond formed during filming. Lee adopted his dog, Fred, from the same event. And in a heartwarming first, Victoria Schade adopted Mr. Pickles, now Boris, from Dallas Dog after falling in love with him during the filming of Puppy Bowl 2025. These personal stories demonstrate the profound connection forged between humans and animals through this unique event. They underscore the genuine love and care that permeates every aspect of the Puppy Bowl production.
Puppy Bowl is more than just a cute spectacle; it’s a carefully orchestrated production with a powerful message. By prioritizing puppy welfare, showcasing adoptable pets, and inspiring countless adoptions, Puppy Bowl continues to make a significant impact on the lives of animals and humans alike. Tune in to Puppy Bowl XXI on Sunday, February 9th, at 2 p.m. EST/11 a.m. PST on Animal Planet, Discovery Channel, TBS, truTV, Max, and discovery+.
