Canine Enthusiasts Gather for Crufts in Birmingham
Dogs from every imaginable breed are converging on Birmingham for the most significant event in the canine world – Crufts. Over 200 breeds are competing for the prestigious title of Best in Show, with the top dog being crowned this Sunday. Visitors can expect to see hundreds of athletic dogs in action, competing in thrilling agility and flyball finals. Additionally, clever canines will showcase their skills through various demonstrations, including police and medical detection work, as well as showcasing the most obedient pets.
The Discover Dogs zone offers attendees the unique opportunity to meet and greet a wide array of breeds while consulting with experts on which four-legged companion might best fit their lifestyle. Catherine Guiver, head of events at The Kennel Club, which organizes Crufts, expressed enthusiasm: “We have an action-packed schedule spread across all four days, featuring something for everyone. Dog lovers are assured a fantastic day out.” Guiver further remarked, “Crufts is a genuine celebration of dogs – encompassing all shapes, sizes, and breeds, from purebred dogs to crossbreeds, rescue pups, and service animals, demonstrating that every dog truly has its day.”
More than 20,000 dogs will participate in this spectacular show.
What is Crufts?
Crufts is a globally recognized dog show, orchestrated by The Kennel Club, with a rich history dating back to 1891. It was founded by British entrepreneur Charles Cruft, who was initially the general manager for a dog biscuit company. The inaugural show was conceived as a marketing event.
Today, Crufts has evolved into a major attraction, drawing over 20,000 dogs and their owners to the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham for a four-day extravaganza. Highlights include the coveted Best in Show competition, where the top dog from each breed group competes for the esteemed title, as well as The Kennel Club Hero Dog award, which honors the invaluable impact our furry friends have on our lives. More than 200 pedigree breeds from 51 different countries will vie for the Best in Show title, which is awarded live on Channel 4 during the final evening of the event. The show also features competitions in dog agility, obedience, flyball, and heelwork to music, while Scruffts gives crossbreeds their moment in the limelight.
What is the Crufts 2025 Schedule?
Crufts will take place over four exciting days at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, from Thursday, March 6 to Sunday, March 9, with an expected attendance of approximately 150,000 people.
Thursday, March 6
- Agility championships – large/intermediate final
- Hound and terrier group finals
- Breeders competition final
- West Midlands Police display
Friday, March 7
- Utility and toy group finals
- Agility singles finals
- Vulnerable breeds competition final
Saturday, March 8
- Gundog group finals
- Gamekeepers competition final
- Obedience champion and reserve display
- Southern golden retriever display
- Scruffts final
Sunday, March 9
- Working and pastoral groups
- Medical detection dogs display
- Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme display
- Rescue dog agility
- The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award
- Flyball final
- Best in Show presentation
This year, the presenting team includes Paralympian Ellie Simmonds, bringing her unique perspective to the event.
How to Watch Crufts on TV
For dog lovers unable to attend, nearly 20 hours of the Crufts TV show will be broadcast on Channel 4 and More4.
Thursday, March 6
- 3pm-4pm – Channel 4
- 6.30pm-7.30pm – More4
- 7.30pm-9pm – Channel 4
Friday, March 7
- 3pm-4pm – Channel 4
- 6.30pm-7.30pm – More4
- 7.30pm-9pm – Channel 4
Saturday, March 8
- 2pm-6pm – Channel 4
- 7pm-9pm – Channel 4
Sunday, March 9
- 2pm-6pm – Channel 4
- 7pm-9pm – Channel 4 – Crufts 2024: Best in Show live.
All times are subject to change. Additionally, all the action will be live-streamed on the official Crufts YouTube channel. This year’s presenting team features Clare Balding and Radzi Chinyanganya, alongside new faces Paralympic Champion Ellie Simmonds and former professional rugby player Ed Jackson. Simmonds and Jackson will engage with attendees at the NEC, presenting interviews and the latest updates, while resident vet Dr. Paul Manktelow will provide valuable advice on caring for our canine companions.
How to Obtain Tickets for Crufts
Tickets can be purchased in advance through the Crufts website. Entry is free for children under eight, while advance tickets are priced at £15 for children (ages 9-15) and concessions, and £22 for adults (additional fees may apply). Daily tickets can be acquired at the box office, priced as follows:
- £27 for Thursday and Friday
- £35 for Saturday
- £29 for Sunday
Tickets are also available from AXS.com.
