Crufts 2026, the world's biggest dog show, is set to return to Birmingham's NEC from March 5-8, with celebrities and dog lovers alike hailing it as an unforgettable experience. The event, which began 135 years ago with around 2,000 dogs, now features a record-breaking 18,000 registered canines, including over 4,000 international contestants from countries such as New Zealand, Argentina, and Peru.
The show offers a diverse range of activities beyond the main Best in Show competition, including flyball, agility, obedience, and heelwork to music. The Discover Dogs area, sponsored by Royal Canin, helps potential owners choose between breeds like Labradors and Lhasa Apsos. The Royal Kennel Club Hero Dog Award celebrates the unique bonds between dogs and their owners, while the Young Kennel Club supports young people aged 6-24 in developing skills with their dogs.
Last year's Best in Show winner, Miuccia, a four-year-old Whippet from Italy, will be among the past champions remembered. With an estimated 160,000 visitors expected, Crufts 2026 promises thrills, spills, and heartwarming stories. A special 48-page preview edition is now on sale, packed with owner interviews and a day-by-day guide to the action.
