Puppy Bowl XXII Is Here: 150 Rescue Pups, Senior Stars, and a Record-Breaking Show of Love!

The 22nd Annual Puppy Bowl is almost here, and it’s shaping up to be the most heartwarming and record-breaking edition yet! Airing this Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT, Puppy Bowl XXII promises three hours of pure cuteness, tail-wagging action, and a powerful message about pet adoption.

This year, a whopping 150 adoptable puppies from 72 shelters across the United States, Puerto Rico, and the British Virgin Islands will take the field—marking the largest lineup in the event’s history. These furry athletes from Team Ruff and Team Fluff will compete in a mock football game for the coveted Lombarky Trophy, complete with tackles (of the playful variety), toy chases, and plenty of adorable fumbles.

What makes Puppy Bowl XXII extra special:

• 15 special-needs dogs are joining the competition, showing that every pup has what it takes to shine and overcome challenges.
• For the first time ever, senior dogs will get their moment in the spotlight during the all-new Pro-Dog Halftime Showdown, an exhibition game highlighting older pups who deserve love and forever homes just as much as the young ones.
• Subaru of America is proud to partner again, featuring “Pup Close and Personal” segments that share inspiring backstories of standout players. Keep an eye out for the Subaru Underdog Award, celebrating a pup who’s overcome the odds.

The event kicks off with a pre-game Puppy Bowl XXII Kickoff Show at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT, introducing the players and building excitement.

Tune in across multiple platforms for the ultimate viewing experience:

• TV channels: Animal Planet, Discovery, TBS, truTV
• Streaming: discovery+, HBO Max (now Max), and more

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the Puppy Bowl for the first time, this is the perfect feel-good alternative (or pre-game) to the big football Sunday. It’s not just entertainment—it’s a celebration of rescue animals and a reminder that adopting a pet can change lives.

Gather your family (and your own furry friends!), grab some snacks, and get ready to cheer for Team Ruff or Team Fluff. Who do you think will win the Lombarky this year? Drop your predictions in the comments, and consider checking out your local shelter—there might be a future Puppy Bowl star waiting for you!

For more details, player bios, and adoption info, head over to the official Puppy Bowl page on Discovery.com.

Let’s make this Sunday paws-itively unforgettable! 🐶🏈