Highlights and Winners of Crufts 2015 Dog Show

The world famous Crufts dog show once again captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts in 2015, held over four thrilling days at Birmingham’s NEC arena from March 5th to 8th. With over 27,000 dogs and approximately 160,000 spectators, the event was a vibrant celebration of canine excellence and community spirit.

This comprehensive article explores the highlights and winners of Crufts 2015, with special attention to the Best in Show champion, various breed competitions, exciting displays, and the bustling atmosphere around the arenas.

The Dogs and Competition

Crufts is renowned for its exclusivity – dogs cannot simply turn up to compete or attend. Each dog must earn an invitation by excelling in qualifying events affiliated with Crufts earlier in the year. This ensures that all competitors represent the very best in their breed or discipline.

The show spans four days with the initial days dedicated to heats, qualifiers, and displays across various arenas. The final two days build anticipation for the highlights – the breed finals and the prestigious Best in Show competition on the final evening.

The 2015 event showcased a wide array of breeds across seven main groups: Gundogs, Working, Pastoral, Terriers, Hounds, Utility, and Toy breeds. This diversity underlines Crufts’ reputation as a comprehensive showcase of canine standards and talents.

Top Winners and Best in Show

Among the hundreds of winners at Crufts 2015, the standout moment was the Best in Show award. This coveted title was claimed by Ch. McVan's To Russia With Love, affectionately known as Knopa, a Scottish Terrier. She made history as the first Scottish Terrier to win Best in Show since 1929, stunning the crowd with her poise and charm.

Knopa was bred and raised in the United States and travelled with her owner Mrs M L Khenkina and handler Rebecca Cross to compete in this prestigious event.

The Reserve Best in Show went to a flat coated retriever named Castlerock Simply Magic (known as Dublin), who delighted audiences with his enthusiasm and graceful performance.

Other breeds featured prominently in the group finals, including the Bearded Collie, Saluki, Maltese, Miniature Poodle, Alaskan Malamute, among others, each bringing their unique qualities to the show ring.

The Exciting Displays

Crufts is not just about breed judging. Throughout the event, visitors enjoyed an array of informative and thrilling canine displays in the main arena. These included demonstrations by retrieving gun dogs, police working dogs, and search and rescue teams.

Charities and rescue organisations also featured, highlighting the importance of canine welfare. Notably, Manchester Dogs Home participated as they continued recovery efforts after a significant arson attack in 2014, showcasing rescued dogs and raising awareness.

Shopping and Expertise

The NEC venue was lined with hundreds of stalls offering everything a dog owner could need: from collars and leads to specialist health supplements and an impressive variety of dog foods.

Visitors had the chance to meet veterinarians and canine experts offering advice on pet care and health. Charities like Medical Detection Dogs and Birmingham Dogs Home maintained a strong presence, underscoring the events' commitment to education and responsible ownership.

Meet the Dogs: Breed Ambassadors

One of the most popular attractions at Crufts 2015 was the “Meet the Dogs” area, where the public could interact with breed ambassadors representing a vast range of breeds – both common and rare within the UK.

This hands-on experience provided families and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to learn about breed characteristics, temperament, and history, fostering greater appreciation and understanding of canine diversity.

Managing the Canine Crowd

With so many dogs attending, managing their needs was a logistical challenge. The NEC, being an indoor venue, could not rely on surrounding fields for regular toileting.

Crufts organisers thoughtfully provided specially designated toileting tents lined with sawdust and bark to create a comfortable space for dogs. Owners were, of course, responsible for cleaning up after their pets to maintain the venue’s cleanliness and respect for all attendees.

The Spirit of Crufts: More than a Competition

Beyond the competition and displays, Crufts 2015 celebrated community and passion among dog lovers. The event reflects values of camaraderie, responsible breeding, welfare, and mutual support among owners, handlers, and breeders nationally and internationally.

This atmosphere makes Crufts not just a dog show, but a festival of canine companionship and dedication.

For those interested in finding a British Championship puppy or simply learning more about the variety of breeds that capture hearts at Crufts, the show remains an essential part of the UK’s rich dog-loving culture.

Photos Credit :onEdition