5th - 8th March 2026
Crufts - NEC Birmingham
Hall 2 stand 148
Crufts is the greatest dog event in the world! Organised by The Kennel Club, the show celebrates every aspect of the role dogs play in our lives — from top-level competition to the simple joy of a daily walk.
The story begins in 1886, when an ambitious young Charles Cruft took up the management of the Allied Terrier Club Show at the Royal Aquarium, Westminster. Just five years later, in 1891, he booked the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington for the very first Cruft's show — a bold step that marked the beginning of something extraordinary.
Following decades of growth and popularity, 1948 saw the first Cruft's held under the auspices of The Kennel Club, after Charles's widow, Emma Cruft, handed over control. The show moved to London Olympia and proved an instant success, with 84 breeds entered — almost double the number at the original 1891 event. Just two years later, Crufts was first televised by the BBC, bringing the spectacle into homes across the nation.
By 1991, Crufts had outgrown its previous venues and moved to the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham. The relocation marked the show's centenary and allowed more space to accommodate over 100,000 visitors and a growing global audience. The move also saw the show expand to four days — a reflection of Crufts' increasing scale and significance.
In 2025, Crufts entered a new chapter. As part of its continued evolution, it was established as a fully-fledged brand in its own right. With ever-growing international interest and a range of events and initiatives already bearing its name, the decision was a natural next step. This development allows the Crufts team to support even more dogs and their owners — from seasoned champions to first-time pet owners — with expert advice, training guidance, and everything in between.
Crufts is no longer just a show. It’s a year-round celebration of dogs — past, present, and future.
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