All About Scruffts: UK's Celebration of Crossbreed Dogs
Virtually every dog owner in the UK will know the famous Crufts Dog Show, an annual event by The Kennel Club (UK) that draws thousands of pedigree dogs and their owners from around the world.
But Crufts is exclusively a breed show, meaning only pedigree dogs registered with The Kennel Club can enter, celebrated for their breed standards and lineage. This leaves out the nation's beloved mutts, crossbreeds, and hybrids, such as the popular Labradoodle.
That’s exactly where Scruffts steps in. Endorsed by The Kennel Club, Scruffts is a UK-wide competition designed specifically for non-pedigree, crossbreed dogs. It warmly welcomes dogs of all shapes, sizes, and ages that don’t fit into traditional breed classes. The competition runs across multiple heats throughout the year in different regions, with semi-finals held at London’s Discover Dogs exposition in October, and the grand final coinciding with the main Crufts show the following June.
If you have a mixed-breed dog with plenty of personality and charm, Scruffts could be their stage to shine. Here’s everything you need to know about this joyous celebration!
Getting Started: What Classes Does Scruffts Offer?
Unlike Crufts, Scruffts focuses on celebrating the traits and individuality of crossbreed dogs, rather than adhering to strict breed standards. The competition includes several classes designed to highlight different ages, qualities, and special bonds with handlers:
- Most Handsome (Male) Dog: Males aged over six months and under seven years.
- Prettiest Bitch: Females between six months and seven years old.
- Veteran/Golden Oldie: Senior dogs aged eight to twelve years.
- Child’s Best Friend: Dogs of any sex (6 months to 12 years) handled by children aged 6 to 16, encouraging young enthusiasts.
- Best Cross-Breed Rescue Dog: Celebrating rescue dogs that have found their forever homes.
- GCDS Crossbreed Class: For crossbreed dogs who have completed the Good Citizen Dog Scheme and hold the certificate.
Who Can Enter Scruffts?
Scruffts is strictly for crossbreed dogs — dogs with mixed heritage from two or more breeds. Pedigree or purebred dogs, even if unregistered, are not eligible. The age limit is dog-friendly, allowing entries between six months and twelve years, ensuring all deserving pets get their chance to participate.
This inclusive approach fosters a celebration of diversity and showcases the wonderful variety found in the UK’s canine community.
How to Enter: Simple Steps for Scruffts
Entering Scruffts couldn’t be easier:
- Find a Local Heat: Look for Scruffts heats and qualifying shows near you. These are usually held at various dog shows and events countrywide throughout the year.
- Bring Your Dog: There’s no need for advance registration; just turn up on the day with your dog.
- Sign Up for a Class: Entry fees are very modest, typically around £2 per class. Choose the class that suits your dog’s age and category.
- Compete and Enjoy: Have fun and impress the judges! If your dog places well, you will progress to the semi-finals and potentially to the prestigious finals at Crufts.
What Do Judges Look for at Scruffts?
Judging at Scruffts highlights dogs not by purebred conformation but by healthy condition, personality, and positive traits cherished by owners. Judges seek:
- Good overall conformation and shape, balanced without breed bias.
- A friendly, calm temperament demonstrating good manners with people and other dogs.
- Reliability and obedience, especially in classes involving child handlers.
- The unique charm and characteristics that make each crossbreed special.
Ultimately, Scruffts honours dogs who are healthy, happy, and a joy to be around, promoting responsible ownership above all.
Why Scruffts Matters: The Spirit Behind the Show
Scruffts is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of every dog’s worth, regardless of pedigree. It provides a welcoming arena for rescue dogs, mutts, and hybrid breeds to gain recognition and experience the joy of showing.
The event encourages families, especially young handlers, to strengthen their bond with their dogs and fosters community engagement nationwide. Successful dogs have gone on to become local stars and inspirational ambassadors for crossbreed dogs across the UK.
Each year, Scruffts champions the loving, inclusive spirit of dog ownership — reminding us that pedigree is just one piece of a much bigger, heartwarming story.
For those considering entering, information on upcoming heats and detailed rules are available from The Kennel Club and the official Scruffts webpage. Entry is affordable, fun, and open to all qualifying dogs.
So whether your dog’s heritage is a mystery or a medley, Scruffts warmly welcomes you to join in the joyous celebration of mixed-breed dogs at Crufts!
