Top Dog Breeds Most Successful at Crufts Best in Show

The world-famous Crufts dog show, held annually at the NEC in Birmingham, is the pinnacle of the dog show calendar. Organised by The Kennel Club, it brings together thousands of dogs from across the UK and internationally to compete for prestigious titles. Among the most eagerly anticipated moments of the four-day event is the Best in Show competition, which takes place on the final Sunday evening. Here is a look at the recent winners and a brief history of this coveted award.

What Is Best in Show at Crufts?

Best in Show is the top award at Crufts. Each dog entered in the show is first judged within its breed class, with the best individuals progressing through to compete for Best of Breed. The Best of Breed winners then compete within their Breed Group (there are seven groups: Gundog, Hound, Pastoral, Terrier, Toy, Utility, and Working). The seven Group winners then compete against each other in the grand final for the title of Best in Show.

Recent Crufts Best in Show Winners

• 2024: A Flat-Coated Retriever named Baxer won Best in Show, handled by breeder-owner Patrick Oosterlinck from Belgium. It was the breed’s second Best in Show win at Crufts.
• 2023: A Lagotto Romagnolo named Orca won Best in Show, handled by owner and breeder Dominique Charlotte Angele Derks from the Netherlands. It was the first time the breed had won the title.
• 2022: A Maltese named Alberto won Best in Show. He was owned by Patricia Cruz Velez from Spain.
• 2020: A Poodle (Miniature) named Ricky won Best in Show. He was owned by Jason Lynn from the United States.
• 2019: A Papillon named Dylan won Best in Show. He was owned by Kathleen and Mark Doyle from the USA.
• 2018: A Whippet named Tease won Best in Show. She was owned by Edward Haagsma from the Netherlands.

Note: there was no Crufts in 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Most Successful Breeds at Crufts

Over the long history of Crufts, certain breeds have been particularly successful. The Cocker Spaniel holds the record for the most Best in Show wins, with seven victories. The Wire Fox Terrier is also a historically dominant breed, particularly in the earlier decades of the competition.

How Are Dogs Judged at Crufts?

Dogs at Crufts are judged against their breed standard, a written description of the ideal specimen for each breed. Judges assess conformation (physical structure), movement, coat, and overall presentation and condition. In the Best in Show final, judges are looking for a dog that best represents its breed standard and also has a commanding presence, excellent condition, and impressive movement.