Written by https://prodogcentral.com/profile-3/anneli93 Crufts – The Worlds Greatest Dog Show.
Copyright: The Kennel Club
What is Crufts dog show?
Crufts was named after its founder, Charles Cruft. Due to his work as a general manager at a dog biscuit manufacturer, Cruft would travel to dog shows in the United Kingdom and internationally. Whilst at the shows, he saw there was a need for a higher standard in dog shows.
In 1891 at the Royal Agricultural Hall, Islington, Cruft held the first show named “Crufts”—”Cruft’s Greatest Dog Show”. Now, over 20,000 dogs each year qualify for the show, all aiming towards the coveted Best in Show award.
Over the years, Crufts has been held in four venues. The show started at the Royal Agricultural Hall, Islington from 1891 to 1939. Between 1948 to 1978, the show was held at Olympia. The third move was between 1948 – 1978 when the show was held at Earl’s Court. The final venue, which is where the show is held today, is the NEC Birmingham.
However it is not just dog showing, Crufts appeals to a wide variety of audiences.
There are many things to see at this 4-day event, including agility, flyball, obedience, heelwork to music, working gundogs, and more, Crufts appeals to all audiences. There are many hundreds of stalls and trade stands offering a wide range of canine goods and services. There is something for everyone.
Where is Crufts 2025?
Crufts will be taking place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham.
When does Crufts start?
Crufts starts on the 6th of March 2025, running over four days, where each day focuses on the showing of the different breed groups.
What are Crufts opening times?
The halls are open from 8.15am until 6.30pm.
How many dogs are competing at Crufts this year?
There will be over 18,000 dogs competing at next years event. You can view the programme here.
Crufts 2025 Schedule
Thursday 6th March 2025 – Terrier & Hound
Friday 7th March 2025 – Utility & Toy
Saturday 8th March 2025 – Gundog
Sunday 9th March 2025 – Working & Pastoral
Not sure what group your favourite breed of dog is in? Check the groups here.
Here are some top tips for visiting the largest dog show in the world.
1. Leave your dog at home
Even though it is a dog show, only dogs who have been invited by the Kennel Club or registered assistance dogs are allowed to attend Crufts. Our advice is to arrange for someone to look after your dog back at home whilst you are away at the show. You can buy them a present to say sorry!
2. Decide how you will get there
There are many different ways to get to Crufts.
By Car
You can get to The NEC by the M6 and M42 motorways. Once you have arrived, there are many car parks which are well signposted. If you are parked far away from the halls, there are shuttle buses that operate from the car parks to the main entrance. I suggest downloading the app ‘What3Words‘ to help you find your car again!
SatNav users should use the NEC postcode: B40 1NT.
You can pay for car parking tickets on the NEC website.
For a map of the area and information on parking click here.
By Train
The train station is a very short walk to the halls and is one of the easiest ways to get to Crufts. Please check the website for the latest train running information.
London Northwestern Railway Trains – services through the heart of England, connecting London, the Midlands, and the North West.
CrossCountry Trains- services to Birmingham from the North East, Manchester, the South coast, the South West, and Wales.
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle
With direct motorway links, you will be on your way to the NEC in Birmingham as soon as you drive off the shuttle in the UK.
By Air
The NEC is located a short 15-minute walk from the airport via the Air-Rail Link and Birmingham International station.
3. Make a plan
Crufts can be overwhelming for a spectator, so it is important to have a plan before you go. Check out what is on each day, by looking at the Crufts schedule What’s On at Crufts.
If you want to see any of the competitions, check what time they start so you can plan your day around them. Therefore if you want to go to any stalls, you can go when it is not clashing with something else you want to see.
4. Arrive early
To ensure you get the most out of your day, I recommend arriving early. This way, you can avoid the crowds and traffic that tend to come around mid-morning. I like to arrive early, have a coffee and watch all the dogs arrive.
5. Wear sensible clothing
When you are attending Crufts, you will want to get the most out of your day. Crufts has various halls, all packed with stalls and trade stands, as well as competitions and displays. Each hall offers something different, so you must wear comfortable footwear.
In the morning it can be quite chilly, but as the day goes on the halls can become warm, so wearing layers will ensure you stay comfortable all day. There is nothing worse than being hot, tired, and having sore feet!
6. Take refreshments
It is important that you stay hydrated and fed whilst at the show. Time goes quickly and you may not realise how much you have walked! There is always a collection of cafes and places to eat. However, you can always take your packed lunch.
Enjoy your day!
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40L Lightweight Shopping Trolley
If you are planning on a shopping spree whilst at Crufts, then why not invest in a shopping trolley? A great way to take all your shopping with you back to your car or on the train home.
What3Words App
Are you meeting up with friends and family at Crufts? Or worried you will forget where you parked? Then download the What3Words App before you go.