How to enter Scruffts
Think your crossbreed has that special sparkle? Scruffts is the nation’s favourite competition exclusively for crossbreed dogs, celebrating character, good behaviour, and the bond between dog and owner. Heats take place across the country, with winners earning a place in the semi-finals at Crufts 2027 – and possibly even the grand final at the world’s greatest celebration of dogs.
Scruffts is proudly supported by James Wellbeloved.
Eligibility for entry
Before entering, please check that your dog meets the following requirements:
- Scruffts is open to crossbreed dogs only
- Dogs must be over six months of age to enter
- 1st place winners in each class qualify for the semi-final at Crufts
- If entering the Good Citizen Dog Scheme Class, all competitors must have already received at least a Bronze level certificate before they enter the class. Please have your certificate or a copy of this on you, if asked to show it
- Dogs over 12 years of age may enter the Golden Oldie class, at the show organisers’ discretion
- Docked dogs are not permitted to enter under UK law
- Rosettes are awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each class - if a 1st place winner cannot attend the final or has already qualified, 2nd place winners will be invited instead
- Classes may be restricted to 40 entries, depending on event logistics or weather conditions
- Dyed dogs are not permitted to compete at Scruffts or at Crufts
- No dog should compete if it is under a Court Control Order or Contingent Destruction Order, or any equivalent control measure
- Dogs falling under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (banned types) may only attend if they have a valid Certificate of Exemption and comply with all legal requirements, including being muzzled, on a lead, neutered, and insured
Event organisers reserve the right to refuse entry if there are concerns about a dog's legal eligibility.
How to enter
• Entry fee: £5 per class*
• Payment: Taken on the day of the event
• Entries per class: Limited to 40 dogs
Please note: this fee does not include entry to the event itself. See individual event websites below for show admission details.
Classes
• Most Handsome Crossbreed Dog (6 months – 8 years)
• Prettiest Crossbreed Bitch (6 months – 8 years)
• Golden Oldie Crossbreed (8+ years)
• GCDS Crossbreed Class (for dogs with a Good Citizen Dog Scheme certificate at any level)
Scruffts 2026 heats (for entry into Crufts 2027)
Heats are held at events across the UK, each one a chance for your dog to shine and maybe earn a place at Crufts 2027.
| Show & location | Date | Registration from | Judging starts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newbury - All About Dogs Show Newbury Showground, Priors Ct Rd, Thatcham, RG18 9QZ |
12 April 2026 | 11:00am | 12:30pm |
| Newark – All About Dogs Show Newark Showground, Newark, Notts, NG24 2NY |
26 April 2026 | 11:00am | 12:30pm |
| Dogstival – Burley Park, New Forest Burley Park, Burley, BH24 4BS |
31 May 2026 | 11:00am | 12:30pm |
| The North East Dog Festival Kirkley Hall, Newcastle, NE20 0AQ |
22 August 2026 | 11:00am | 12:30pm |
| Knebworth House - All About Dogs Show Stevenage, SG1 2AX |
13 September 2026 | 11:00am | 12:30pm |
| Kent Showground - Paws In The Park Delting, Maidstone, ME14 3JF |
20 September 2026 | 11:00am | 12:30pm |
Ready to join the fun?
Find a heat near you, bring your best friend, and take part in the nation’s favourite crossbreed competition. Whether you’re in it for the rosette or the joy of the day, Scruffts celebrates every wag, woof and wonderful personality.