Big Fan of the Puppy Bowl? Here's What You Probably Didn't Know

Updated on 2/3/2019 at 11:15 AM

Animal Planet

If you're utterly obsessed with dogs, then there's no doubt you're a loyal viewer of Animal Planet's annual Puppy Bowl. Not so familiar with the event? It's exactly what it sounds like: a televised program where doggos split into teams by size (so big dogs vs. big dogs, etc.) and "play" each other on a mini football field for all to watch. As someone who got to go behind the scenes of the taping a few weeks back, let me attest that the pups are even cuter in real life.

There are literally dozens of pups playing everywhere! In its 15th year, Puppy Bowl XV is set to air on Feb. 3 at 3 p.m. ET and 12 p.m. PT. Think you know everything there is to know about this positively adorable tradition? Scroll through to learn a new factoid or two.

Every single participant — or should we say pup-ticipant! — is up for adoption . . .

Yep, you read that right! All of these adorable pooches are looking for their forever homes. This year, Animal Planet worked with more than 50 shelters across 20 states — and even stopped in Costa Rica — to feature different pups in need.

. . . and they've always found homes!

Although it takes a lot of planning, manpower, and hard work, every single dog who has taken part in the event over the last 15 years has been placed in a forever home. So yes, it's clearly worth all that effort!

Each pup gets his or her own moment in the spotlight.

Before the dogs are sorted by size and let out on the field, each pup gets his or her very own glamour shot. Producers start by giving the pup in question a themed bandana and take tons of photos. And don't worry, their foster parent or shelter volunteer is right by their side throughout the entire process.

There's a representative from the Humane Society present for the whole event.

To ensure every dog is healthy and happy throughout each game, there's a representative from the Humane Society right next to the field at all times. Think of her like a medic during a regular football game!

The referee is the real deal.

Dan Schachner — the official ruff-eree — has been policing these sweet little pups for eight years and counting. As a long-time advocate for dogs in need, he's not afraid to be peed and, er, pooped on if it means finding a forever home for his four-legged friends.

As you can imagine, he was pretty excited to get back on the field. "[This year] will be the highest level of athletic prowess and cuteness we've ever displayed," he told POPSUGAR.

And while he loves reffing the Puppy Bowl, he also wanted to draw attention to the second annual Dog Bowl — which airs Feb. 2 at 8 p.m. ET — an event geared toward older puppers. "Dog Bowl II is going to show the world that the old-timers are just as adoptable and amazing as their counter-pups," he said. This year, 63 older doggos will participate, including several with special needs.

There's an adorable kitten halftime show.

More of a cat person? Honestly, same. Thankfully, there's an adorable halftime show dedicated to kitties playing with toys on the field, and we are officially obsessed.