Key Highlights
- Crufts 2026 will feature 18,698 canine competitors from around the world.
- New grooming competition and recognition of three new breeds: Hungarian mudi, Icelandic sheepdog, and Pyrenean mastiff.
- Queen Victoria’s era influence still felt as royal family members exhibit.
The Grandest Dog Show: Crufts 2026
Crufts returns with the biggest show in the canine calendar. Over 18,698 dogs from New Zealand to Peru will compete for glory at Birmingham’s NEC arena.
A New Face and a Familiar Presence
Joining Clare Balding, Ellie Simmonds, and Radzi Chinyangany is Claudia Winkleman. Her presence adds a new twist to the broadcast, but she might just be overshadowed by the 4,299 overseas entries from far-flung places like New Zealand, Peru, and Argentina.
France leads with 538 dogs, followed closely by Italy (436), Germany (425), and the Netherlands (353).
New Blood: Grooming and Breed Recognition
For the first time, Hall 8 will host a dog grooming competition. Elite groomers will vie for the Best Dog Groomer in Show title during Sunday’s finale. The ring is also set to recognize three new breeds: Hungarian mudi, Icelandic sheepdog, and Pyrenean mastiff.
The world of canine fashion is about to get more diverse, with these newcomers joining the ranks of established pedigrees like the dalmatian and Shetland sheepdog.
Historic Moments and Modern Innovations
Crufts 2026 marks a historic shift as the Royal Kennel Club unveils its new identity. The event will launch the Crufts Club, an initiative to enhance modern dog ownership with expert resources.
While the show’s roots in 1891 may feel ancient, this year’s lineup is anything but stagnant. With more than 547 labradors and 529 golden retrievers leading the pack, it’s clear that these versatile breeds remain top favorites among competitors.
The Underdogs
But for every popular breed, there are rarities like the Komondor. Three of these mop-like Hungarian sheepdogs will compete in the ring, making them the ultimate underdog story at Crufts 2026.
Despite their unique appearance, they have a rich history and a special place in the world of dog shows.
A Celebration of Canine Heritage
With over 2,600 entries from 39 British and Irish native breeds officially listed as vulnerable, Crufts is not just about winning titles. It’s also a celebration of canine heritage and diversity in the face of declining numbers.
The labrador retriever leads with 547 entries, closely followed by golden retrievers (529), whippets, cocker spaniels, Staffordshire bull terriers, Border collies, flat-coated retrievers, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, dalmatians, and Shetland sheepdogs.
More Than Just a Show
The activities ring offers visitors the chance to experience obedience, agility, working trials, and heelwork to music with trained dogs. Re-tail therapy is also on offer at over 500 dog-specific trade stands showcasing pet products from food to toys.
Crufts dog show runs from March 5–8 at the NEC Birmingham. Mark your calendars for this canine extravaganza, where every breed has a story to tell and every dog gets its moment in the spotlight.
