Join the adorable rivalry of Puppy Bowl XXII on February 8! Watch Team Ruff vs. Team Fluff and find your new furry friend. Tune in at 2 pm ET!
- February 8, 2026
AceShowbiz - As the anticipation builds for Super Bowl LX this Sunday, another highly anticipated, and arguably more adorable, rivalry is set to unfold. On February 8 at 2 pm ET, fans can tune into Animal Planet for the return of Puppy Bowl XXII, featuring the fierce, yet utterly charming, competition between Team Ruff and Team Fluff. This annual spectacle showcases a lineup of truly special canine athletes, all eagerly awaiting their forever homes. Viewers interested in adopting these furry stars can find more information on Discovery's official website.
Beyond the thrilling plays, one of the enduring delights of Puppy Bowl XXII is the clever naming of its participants. This year's roster doesn't disappoint, boasting monikers like Chappell Bone, a clear homage to rising pop star Chappell Roan, and RuPaw, a playful tribute to the iconic drag queen RuPaul. While we admire the creative spirit behind Carrie Pawshaw, a nod to Sarah Jessica Parker's character from 'Sex and the City,' it does prompt a whimsical thought: could 'Carrie Bradpaw' have been even more fitting? Adding another layer of celebrity connection, Team Fluff features Benito, named for the global music sensation Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio. Intriguingly, Bad Bunny is also slated to perform at this year's Super Bowl halftime show – a delightful coincidence that adds extra sparkle to the event.
Fans won't want to miss a moment of this heartwarming competition. In addition to its primary broadcast on Animal Planet, the Puppy Bowl XXII will also be widely accessible through simulcasts on Discovery, TBS, truTV, HBO Max, and discovery+, ensuring everyone can catch the action from their preferred platform.
This year's starting lineup for Puppy Bowl XXII offers a glimpse of the more than 100 adoptable pups participating. Each brings unique charm and athletic prowess. Below, we introduce some standout players from Team Ruff and Team Fluff, vying for the 'Lombarky' trophy.
For Team Ruff, Brûlée, a deaf Boston Terrier and French Bulldog mix, is a spirited playmaker. His fearless drive ensures he's a determined force on the field.
Team Ruff's Button, a Boston Terrier and Beagle mix, shines with natural talent and eager energy. Her intelligence and spirited nature make her ready for big plays.
An elegant Elkhound and American Eskimo mix, Carrie Pawshaw moves with grace and calm control. She has the skills to score and composure to shine under pressure for Team Fluff.
Despite a missing ear, Litchi, a lively French Bulldog and Terrier mix from Team Fluff, never slows down. Her dynamic personality and nonstop energy make her a standout competitor.
Each of these incredible pups, along with their teammates, represents the heart of Puppy Bowl: raising awareness for animal adoption. As you watch them play, remember every single one is looking for a loving home. Pick your MVP and consider opening your heart to a new furry family member!