Iconic moments at Crufts

1891: The first Crufts show

The first Crufts show, under that title, takes place at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington, boasting an impressive 2,437 entries representing 36 distinct breeds. Despite being a significantly different event in 1891, Charles Cruft, a remarkable showman, would undoubtedly have relished the grandeur and scale of the present-day event. View full history of Crufts here.

1928: Primley Sceptre and the birth of excellence

The first winner of Best in Show is a Greyhound called Primley Sceptre. Best in Show at Crufts is arguably the most coveted achievement in dog showing and every exhibitor dreams of being awarded the Keddell Memorial Trophy. Since then, there have been more than 78 Best in Show winners, with 43 different breeds taking home the trophy. View full list of previous winners here.

1932: The first female owner of Best in show

Lorna Countess Howe with Labrador Retriever, Dual Champion Bramshaw Bob who took Best in Shows at Crufts in 1932 and 1933. Lorna was a founding member of the Labrador Retriever Club in 1916 and also served as Chair of the Ladies Branch of The Kennel Club. Equally at home in the show ring and in the field, she was also the first woman to judge at a field trial in 1920.

1948: First Crufts show under Kennel Club auspices

The first Crufts show under patronage The Kennel Club takes place after Emma Cruft hands over control. Held at Olympia, it proves an immediate success with both exhibitors and the public, with 84 breeds entered, almost double the number of breeds at the first Crufts in 1891. Since then this number has continued to increase, and the show attracts around 200 breeds every year.

1950: Crufts in the limelight

Crufts is televised by the BBC for the first time. Already a popular event for visitors in London, television coverage means that everyone around the country and internationally can feel a part of the show. Crufts is now every year broadcasted on Channel 4 and More4. For additional details and information on watching Crufts 2024 visit our website.

1955: Inclusion of crossbreed Working Sheepdogs at Crufts

Crufts becomes an obedience championship show. Working Sheepdogs are entered, becoming the first crossbreeds to compete at Crufts. Whether navigating intricate agility courses with finesse or engaging in other competitions, crossbreed dogs contribute to the rich tapestry of the event, captivating audiences with their versatility and individual charm.

1969: Queen Elizabeth II's royal visit to Crufts

The event takes place at the Olympia Exhibition Centre in London and is visited by Queen Elizabeth II. Queen Elizabeth II had a longstanding interest in dogs, especially her iconic Pembroke Corgis and was a keen field trials competitor and judge.

1978: The birth of agility at Crufts

Agility is first demonstrated at Crufts. With a gap to fill in the schedule, agility founders John Varley and Peter Meanwell devised a team demonstration to entertain audiences based on elements of obedience and show jumping. It was so popular that it soon became a formal competitive activity. The first official agility competition at Crufts was held in 1980.

1985: The launch of the Young Kennel Club (YKC) at Crufts

The Kennel Club Junior Organisation is launched, now known as the Young Kennel Club (YKC). There is a dedicated Young Kennel Club ring at Crufts every year where members can gain experience and skills in showing, stewarding, handling, grooming and even commentating.

1990: Flyball takes flight

Flyball is demonstrated at Crufts for the first time. Combining fun, speed and excitement, flyball is an immediate hit with dogs, competitors and audiences. The joy and enthusiasm exhibited by the dogs as they navigate the course, the focused determination of the competitors, and the cheers from the audience create a vibrant and infectious atmosphere.

Crufts 2024 tickets on sale here.

1991: A majestic move to Birmingham and a Guinness World Record triumph

The 100th Crufts show takes place at its present venue, the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, marking the show's first relocation from London. In the same year Crufts receives the Guinness Book of Records award for the world’s largest dog show with a record entry of 22,973.

Do you have ticket? Visit our website for Crufts 2024 show information.

1994: The debut of Discover Dogs

The Discover Dogs area is introduced to Crufts as part of The Kennel Club’s commitment to encouraging responsible dog ownership, enabling dog loving visitors at the show to find out more about the different breeds and how they may fit into their lifestyle.

2000: Celebrating canine resilience

Crufts witnesses a groundbreaking addition that not only showcases the agility skills of rescue dogs but also celebrates their resilience in a dynamic and spirited manner. Rescue Dog Agility remains an important part of the Crufts calendar and display and celebrate successful stories of dog rescue organisations. Watch 2023 Rescue Dog Agility

2004: Heartfelt heroes - the evolution of Friends for Life into Hero Dog at Crufts

The beloved and enduring annual competition, now known as Hero Dog, was introduced at Crufts in 2004. The competition stands as a poignant tribute to the extraordinary bond between humans and their incredible companions in the categories Extraordinary life of a working dog, Hero support dog, Best friends, Child’s champion, Rescue dog hero.

2009: Crufts takes centre stage online

As the digital curtains lifted, Crufts finds a new and expansive platform and its online streaming becomes an immediate sensation. The event's popularity soared to unprecedented heights as it swiftly ascended to become the most-watched channel on YouTube in the UK. So if you’ll miss Crufts 2024 on Channel 4 visit our YouTube channel.