From show categories to how to watch, we bring you all you need to know about Crufts.
A spectacle of purebred prowess, agility, and heartwarming tales – here’s everything you need to know about Crufts, from which dog breeds will be taking part to how to watch all the action.
When is Crufts 2024?
This year, the dog show takes place from 7 – 10 March
Where is Crufts held?
Crufts is held at the NEC in Birmingham
What does Crufts stand for?
Crufts was named after its founder, Charles Cruft. The dog show was inspired by his role as the general manager for a dog biscuit manufacturer, which required him to travel to dog shows all over the world. During this time, he identified the potential for a top-notch dog show, which ultimately became Crufts.
The show quickly gained prominence and popularity, expanding its scope to include obedience competitions, agility trials, and flyball. Crufts continued through challenging times, including interruptions during the World Wars, demonstrating resilience and dedication to the world of dogs.
How much is a Crufts ticket?
Tickets are free for under 8s, and advance tickets start at £14 for children (aged 9-15) and concessions, and £21 for adults.
- Buy tickets from The Ticket Factory.
How does a dog qualify for Crufts?
To be eligible for entry into the Crufts show, dogs must have secured a qualifying position of 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place at a championship show.
New to dog showing? Find out more at The Kennel Club.
What is Crufts Best in Show?
This is the ultimate award given to the top dog at Crufts.
The Best in Show title is awarded to the dog that stands out as the overall winner among all the competing breeds.
The judging process involves selecting the best representative of each breed over the course of the show, and these winners then compete against each other to determine the overall Best in Show on the last day.
The criteria for judging include conformation, temperament, and other breed-specific characteristics.
Leading the pack with the most entries for this year’s show is the great family favourite, the Golden Retriever, with 538 dogs hoping to be crowned top dog. This is just ahead of the Labrador (519) and the Cocker Spaniel (421).
In contrast, the Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) and Foxhound have just three dogs vying for the Best in Show title, while there are only two Turkish Kangal Dogs entered, highlighting that the show is a true celebration of all dogs, from the well-known to the rare.
In total, four-legged representatives from 50 countries will be taking part in the world’s greatest dog event this year, from Mexico to Macedonia. The Netherlands lead the way with 382 dogs in the running for the Crufts top title, just ahead of Germany (375), France (371) and Italy (330).
What does the winner of Crufts get?
Winning Best in Show at Crufts is considered a significant achievement in the world of dog shows and the prestige of being crowned Best in Show is its own reward.
However, last year the winner received £200 and a replica of the silver Keddall Memorial Trophy, named after the show’s manager, Robert Keddall.
Who won Crufts 2023?
Last year Ante Lucin and Sabina Zdunić Šinković, from Croatia, won the prestigious Best in Show title with their Lagotto Romagnolo, Orca – a premier win for the four-legged Italian breed, as well as the first for Croatia.
Javier Gonzalez Mendikote, who handled Orca, said the win at Crufts was a “childhood dream come true.”
What are the different categories at Crufts?
Crufts hosts a variety of competitions that showcase the talents, agility, and beauty of different dog breeds. Some of the key competitions at Crufts include:
- Breed Judging: Dogs are judged based on how well they conform to the breed standard. Winners from each breed go on to compete in the “Best in Group” and eventually for the prestigious title of “Best in Show.”
- Agility: Dogs navigate through a timed obstacle course, showcasing their speed, agility, and the bond they share with their handlers.
- Obedience: Demonstrates a dog’s ability to follow commands and perform various tasks, showcasing discipline and training.
- Flyball: A relay race where teams of four dogs jump hurdles, trigger a spring-loaded box to release a tennis ball, and then carry the ball back to their handlers.
- Heelwork to Music: A creative and entertaining competition where dogs and their handlers perform a choreographed routine set to music, emphasizing the bond between them.
- Young Kennel Club Competitions: Encourages young dog enthusiasts to participate in various activities, including handling, grooming, and agility.
- Working Gundogs: This class includes two categories, including The Gamekeeper Classes and The Working Gundog Classes
And, of course, there’s also Scruffts which celebrates cross-breeds, and The Kennel Club Dog Hero Award, which honours the special role dogs can play in its owner’s life.
What breeds are at Crufts?
The following breed groups are commonly featured at Crufts:
- Gundog Group: Retrievers, Spaniels, Pointers, and Setters.
- Hound Group: Beagles, Greyhounds, Afghan Hounds, and Dachshunds.
- Pastoral Group: Sheepdogs, Collies, Corgis, and Belgian Shepherds.
- Terrier Group: Jack Russell Terriers, Scottish Terriers, Bull Terriers, and Fox Terriers.
- Toy Group: Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, Pugs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
- Utility Group: Bulldogs, Dalmatians, Shih Tzus, and Poodles.
- Working Group: Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, and Siberian Huskies.
How to see Crufts
Visit the official Crufts website or contact the venue to purchase tickets. Tickets are available for different days and include access to various events and competitions.
Review the event schedule to plan your visit. Crufts spans several days, and each day features different competitions, demonstrations, and activities. Make sure to attend on the day that interests you the most.
How to watch Crufts
With Clare Balding at the helm once again, Channel 4 and More4 will broadcast all the action from the show, with over 15 hours of coverage, leading up to the grand finale Best in Show on Sunday.
- Watch daily on Channel 4 and More4, or via YouTube.
The Kennel Club also has a podcast during the show. Listen now.
For the latest Crufts updates, visit the official Crufts Facebook page, follow on X, Instagram and TikTok.
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