icelandic Sheepdog (
)
REDBONE (
)
Boykin Spaniel (
)
Bluetick Coonhound (
)
Once the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is over on Thursday, the TV options are simple: football or dogs. While the New England Patriots take on the Detroit Lions on CBS, dogdom’s best athletes will be battling it out in the show ring on NBC — competing in the National Dog Show Presented by Purina.
In the world of dog shows, this is akin to the playoffs (with the Westminster Kennel Club show in February being the Super Bowl). The dogs have competed in regional shows all year, and now come head-to-head, breed-to-breed in the race to Best in Show.
While the show’s on-air analyst David Frei likes the look of certain breeds in this year’s lineup — the smooth fox terrier, Irish setter, boxer and Pekingese, in particular — he says, “The beauty of our sport is that dogs are judged on the day. Peyton Manning doesn’t throw five touchdown passes every time out, and the dogs may not always have their best day, either.”
As you watch this year’s National Dog Show, keep your eyes peeled for these six new breeds. Frei, who used to work for the Denver Broncos and San Francisco 49ers, compares the dogs to the other stars of Thanksgiving TV — football players.
Boykin Spaniel
Sporting Group
Doggy details: A medium-size, energetic and cheerful hunting dog, the Boykin has plenty of stamina and a keen willingness to work. They’re also easy to train and they get along well with other dogs and children.
If he were a football player, he’d be: LaDainian Tomlinson of the Jets
“They have to be light on their feet,” says Frei of the Boykin. “But they’re very sure of themselves and very athletic. To me, they’re like a little running back.”
Leonberger
Working Group
Doggy details: A large working dog originally from Germany, a Leonberger’s most important task is to be reliable, friendly and willing to please family companion.
If he were a football player, he’d be: David Diehl of the Giants “They’re big. That’s the starting point for an offensive lineman and for Leonbergers,” says Frei. “Also, they’re a protection dog — and the offensive line has to protect the quarterback and pave the way for the running backs.”
Cane Corso
Working Group
Doggy details: This Italian breed is a loyal, powerful watchdog. They are very intelligent, which makes them easy to train; however, they require a lot of exercise.
If he were a football player, he’d be: Ray Lewis of the Ravens
“No question in my mind — they’re the middle linebacker of dogs,” says Frei. “They can seem intimidating because they’re watching everything that’s going on and making sure nothing gets past them.”
Icelandic Sheepdog Herding Group
Doggy details: Originally used in Iceland to herd sheep, cattle and horses, this just-
under-medium-size breed is playful,
social, confident and friendly.
If he were a football player, he’d be: Darrelle Revis of the Jets
“A herding dog has got to be a great athlete, so I think of a defensive back,” says Frei. “They’ve got to be smart and quick on their feet. Their job is to watch what goes on around them. Defensive backs do that — watch who comes into their area of the field. And they can’t be too big or else they’ll tire too quickly.”
Bluetick Coonhound
Doggy details: One breed distinguished by different coats, the Bluetick is active and ambitious, and the Redbone is known for its determination and versatility.
If he were a football player, he’d be: The Bluetick would be any wide receiver. The Redbone? Coach Rex Ryan of the Jets.
“They’re a marathon-type dog who runs and runs and runs, so I think of wide receivers,” says Frei. “But one thing I’ve heard about the Redbone Coonhound is that they can bark 125 times in a minute. So for them, I think of Rex Ryan. They’re running off at the mouth — but in an endearing way. I love Rex Ryan, and I love dogs. But both can make a lot of noise!”
pets@nypost.com