Puppy Bowl XXII brings the familiar Team Fluff versus Team Ruff format back to television with a record roster, as reported by Bleeding Cool. The event will showcase 150 adoptable puppies drawn from 72 shelters across the US, Puerto Rico, and the British Virgin Islands, and they will compete for the Lombarky trophy and MVP honors.
Bleeding Cool reported that referee Dan Schachner returns for his 15th year to oversee play, while sportscasters Steve Levy and Taylor Rooks provide play-by-play commentary. The producers said viewers can expect new segments including a senior dog exhibition, shelter stories, and a Barking Lot Tailgate, along with Subaru and Bissell awards for standout puppies.
Rosters highlight dogs such as Benito and Showgirl on Team Fluff and Lobster Roll, Brûlée, and Miso on Team Ruff, according to the preview. Fifteen special needs dogs are included, with Wynonna noted for competing on three legs and Eleanor listed as both deaf and vision impaired, demonstrating the program’s emphasis on varied adoption stories.
Production Details And Human Interest Profiles
Behind the camera, production follows strict animal care and staging routines described on the Puppy Bowl Wikipedia entry. The show is filmed in a custom Plexiglas stadium about 19 by 10 feet and uses hours of footage captured over multiple days. A veterinarian and shelter representatives are on site during taping to ensure animal welfare.
Wikipedia notes that the set uses turf and many toys to prompt play, and that production uses props such as peanut butter on camera lenses. The same source lists supply figures, including about 80 ounces of peanut butter, 15 pounds of dry food, 500 treats, and 250 toys used during taping.
CNN’s John Nowak, who photographed several pups, described working with special needs dogs like Paddy, a dog missing both eyes. Nowak said staff tap tables or gently blow to give blind or deaf dogs sensory cues, and that photo director Keith helped Paddy stay calm. Nowak also called the set “controlled chaos” and noted practical challenges such as turf accidents and peanut butter on lenses.
Human interest threads include ESPN’s report on Button, a seven-month-old Boston terrier and beagle mix who was rescued after a litter survived a rural incident. ESPN said Button spent time with Buffalo Bills receiver Khalil Shakir at Highmark Stadium and was selected for a special segment after adoption by partners at Nickel City Canine Rescue. The Daily Cardinal highlighted Wisconsin rescues Anson and Anvero, noting Anson was born deaf yet adapted readily to the Puppy Bowl environment.
