10 Fascinating Facts About Crufts Dog Show

Crufts dog show is the Kennel Club’s largest annual event, hosting finals in show classes, agility, obedience, and more. It draws dog lovers from across the UK and beyond, featuring thousands of competitors and spectators each year.

Whether you love the spectacle of dog showing, plan to attend, or are curious about Crufts’ rich history, this guide explores ten fascinating facts about this iconic event.

Crufts is the world’s oldest and longest established dog show

First held in 1891, Crufts is the oldest dog show globally and remains the largest and most prestigious event of its kind. Its long history reflects the evolution and celebration of purebred dogs in the UK.

Crufts began exclusively with terriers

The inaugural Crufts show was actually the "First Great Terrier Show". For its first five years, only terriers could participate. It wasn’t until 1896 that other breeds were invited, marking its expansion into a multi-breed celebration.

About 28,000 dogs compete at Crufts each year

The event’s scale is staggering, with approximately 28,000 dogs competing across several disciplines during the four-day show. Participants range from puppies to veterans competing for titles in breed, agility, obedience, and more.

Approximately 160,000 spectators attend Crufts annually

Crufts attracts a vast audience, with roughly 160,000 people expected to attend over the four days. Tickets are available at the door, but many visitors pre-book to secure their spot and access special events like Best in Show.

Best in Show prize is a modest £200

While many might expect a huge cash prize for the Best in Show winner, it is a £200 token amount. The real reward is the prestige, which can lead to increased demand and sponsorship opportunities for breeders.

Best in Show trophy is not kept by winners

The historic Keddall Memorial Trophy, a solid silver cup, is awarded to the Best in Show winner but remains the property of the Kennel Club. Winners receive a replica to keep as a memento of their achievement.

Most Best in Show wins by breed: Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel has clinched Best in Show the most times in Crufts history, boasting seven wins. This breed remains a fan favourite and symbol of the show’s heritage.

Top breeds by number of competitors

Based on 2019 entries, the Golden Retriever leads with 537 dogs entered, followed closely by the Labrador Retriever at 531 and the Whippet in third with 416 entrants, highlighting the popularity of retrievers and sighthounds.

Crufts was suspended during the World Wars

The show was not held during the years 1918–1920 and 1940–1947 due to the impacts of the First and Second World Wars. Since then, it has become an annual fixture showcasing resilience and continuity.

Best in Show competition introduced in 1928

Not part of the original show, the coveted Best in Show class was introduced nearly three decades after Crufts began, in 1928. It has since become the most high-profile and eagerly anticipated event at the show.

What to know when planning to attend Crufts 2025

Crufts 2025 takes place from Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 March at NEC Birmingham, the UK’s premier venue for this event. Tickets start from £15 for children and £22 for adults, with free entry for children under eight.

Visitors can expect to see breed judging across the four days, including terriers, hounds, utility, toy, gundog, working, and pastoral groups, culminating in the Best in Show on Sunday afternoon.

Besides the shows and classes, Crufts offers agility, obedience competitions, medical detection dog displays, police dog demos, and a Discover Dogs area where visitors can meet over 200 breeds and chat with breeders about responsible ownership.

Advance ticket booking is recommended to guarantee entry, especially for the high-demand Best in Show finale. Personal dogs cannot be brought into the event — only competitors and assistance dogs are permitted inside.

Whether visiting or competing, Crufts remains a remarkable celebration of dogs and responsible breeding practices for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.