Crufts 2025 in England

Crufts, the most famous dog show in Great Britain, is held over four days in early March at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham. The prestigious event was recognized as the largest in the world by Guinness World Records. The competition gathers around 27,000 dogs from 220 different breeds who arrived from 44 different countries to compete for the Best in Show title. Attracting about 160,000 attendees annually, Crufts includes not just a championship but also a trade expo of dog-related products and plenty of entertainment.

Crufts Highlights

Crufts is synonymous with its grand finale: the Best in Show competition. This iconic event gathers the crème de la crème of the dog world as top dogs from each breed group vie for the coveted title. It’s a moment of glamour and celebration, showcasing the diversity and excellence of dogs in all their forms. Alongside this thrilling contest, The Kennel Club Hero Dog competition shines a light on the extraordinary bond between humans and their canine companions, highlighting dogs that have made remarkable contributions to people’s lives. This touching tribute underscores Crufts’ broader mission of celebrating the multifaceted role dogs play in our lives.

Dogs first compete in the same breed, split by gender and age. Class winners then compete in the Best of Breed, Best in Group, Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show. The show also features a dog agility competition, a dog obedience competition held in the Obedience Arena, and The Flyball competition, where teams of four dogs compete against each other.

The Main Arena

The main arena at Crufts is a hub of energy and entertainment. Beneath dazzling lights, visitors can marvel at an array of activities, from fast-paced flyball and precision agility to the captivating heelwork-to-music displays. Demonstrations by police and medical dogs showcase the incredible skills and dedication of working dogs, adding a layer of awe to the proceedings. This vibrant space brings together skill, teamwork, and fun, offering a front-row seat to the diverse talents of dogs and their handlers.

Discover Dogs

The Discover Dogs area at Crufts is a paradise for dog enthusiasts, offering the chance to meet and interact with over 200 unique dog breeds. It’s the perfect place to learn about each breed’s distinct characteristics and personalities. For those considering adding a dog to their family, this area provides invaluable insight to help you find the breed that best matches your lifestyle and needs.

Crufts History

Crufts, organized by the Kennel Club, was founded in 1886 by Charles Cruft, a general manager for a dog biscuit manufacturer. At first, it featured only terriers and was called the "First Great Terrier Show" with about 600 entries. In 1891 it was renamed to Crufts. The English Cocker Spaniel is now the most successful breed at the show. To participate in the Crufts, dogs have to qualify throughout the previous year.

Shopping Area

The extensive shopping section at Crufts features hundreds of stalls, offering everything from high-quality dog food and stylish collars to grooming tools and cozy beds. Whether you’re there to explore, shop, or simply revel in the love for dogs, Crufts delivers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of our cherished canine companions.