Scruffts at Crufts
Scruffts, proudly sponsored by pet food makers James Wellbeloved, is the nation’s favourite celebration of crossbreeds – and proof that you don’t need a pedigree to be a star! This much-loved competition isn’t just about wagging tails and winning rosettes; it’s a fantastic way for dog lovers to enjoy time with their beloved pets while championing responsible dog ownership.
How to enter Scruffts
Scruffts is the UK’s best-loved competition dedicated to crossbreed dogs, celebrating personality, great behaviour, and the unique connection between dogs and their owners. Heats are held nationwide, with successful dogs securing a spot in the semi-finals at Crufts 2027 – and the chance to compete in the grand final at the world’s greatest celebration of dogs.
Our Scruffts 2026 winner
Marnie, an eight-year-old Terrier cross owned by 77-year-old Lyn Freeman from Harlow, Essex, claimed the Scruffts Family Crossbreed of the Year title at the world’s greatest dog show, Crufts, on Saturday 7 March.
Marnie was one of four finalists competing in the national Scruffts competition, which is exclusively supported by pet food makers James Wellbeloved.
Meet the other Scruffts finalists!
- Most Handsome Crossbreed Dog: Chip, a Spaniel (Cocker)/ Labrador Retriever cross, owned by Carrie Harris, aged 53.
- Good Citizen Dog Scheme: Rocky, a German Shepherd Dog/Border Collie cross owned by Jenny Michell, aged 54.
- Golden Oldie Crossbreed: Marnie, a Terrier cross, owned by Lyn Freeman, aged 77.
- Prettiest Crossbreed Bitch: Betty, a Whippet/Norfolk Terrier cross, handled by Ollie Irwin, aged 12 from Banbury, Oxfordshire – winning for the second-year running.
As well as the Scruffts Crossbreed Family Dog of the Year title, Marnie received a year’s supply of healthy hypo-allergenic dog food from James Wellbeloved.
Scruffts FAQs
New to Scruffts or thinking of entering your dog? We’ve answered the most common questions below to help you get ready for the day:
Can I enter multiple Scruffts classes?
Yes. You can enter more than one class, depending on your dog’s age and eligibility. For the GCDS class, a minimum Bronze level certificate is required.
Do I need to pre-book Scruffts?
No pre-booking is required for Scruffts itself. However, you will need to pre-book an event ticket for the show where the Scruffts heat is taking place. You can see a list of heats here.
What do I need to bring with me to Scruffts?
Nothing is required in most cases. If you are entering the GCDS class, you may be asked to provide proof of your Bronze level certificate.
What happens if I win at Scruffts?
If you place 1st in a Scruffts heat, you’ll be invited to compete in the semi-finals at Crufts. If the 1st place winner is unable to attend, the invitation may be passed to the 2nd place winner.
Can rescue dogs enter Scruffts?
Yes. Rescue dogs are welcome to enter, as long as they are crossbreeds.
Are spectators allowed at Scruffts?
Yes, spectators are welcome. However, due to popularity, only one handler per dog is allowed in the ring. Additional spectators can view the event from outside the ring area.
Is Scruffts free entry?
No. Entry is £5 per dog per class.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Visit the How to enter Scruffts page for full entry information.
