Crufts: Celebrating the Best of the Canine World

Crufts is one of the biggest and most prestigious dog shows in the world. Four fun-packed days at the NEC in Birmingham.

Our Pet-Tags Pet of the Month for March is gorgeous Merlin McPherson, proudly showing off his Crufts ID tag.

Merlin is a six-year-old Bearded Collie who loves taking part in fun agility and Heelwork to Music. Over the past few years, he has learned a huge variety of moves, and he and his mum, Janet, have enjoyed putting together a Freestyle routine that they hope to perform in the ring one day.

Merlin’s Road to Crufts

Merlin is already well on his way to success. In 2013, he joined the Prospectors Canine team at the Manchester Dog Show, where he trained under the experienced eye of Christine Stafford and her sister, Jean Tomkinson.

Last year, Merlin achieved the prestigious Kennel Club Bronze and Silver Good Citizen awards and is now working towards his Gold award.

This year is particularly exciting, as Merlin will be attending his first-ever Crufts as a member of the Crufts Silver Display Team 2015 – Midlands. He will be taking part in demonstrations on Thursday and Saturday and is currently working hard with his fellow canine performers to perfect his moves ahead of the big event.

Away from training, Merlin loves nothing more than heading out for a long walk and having a good run off-lead at the park with his brother, Griffin, a Border Collie. After all that exercise, there’s nothing better than curling up on the sofa with a well-earned pig’s ear!

Well done, Merlin!

Getting Started in Dog Showing

Dog showing is a popular canine activity and a fantastic way to celebrate your dog and learn more about different breeds.

Pedigree dogs can take part in dog shows, where they compete in different rings and are judged against the official Kennel Club Breed Standard. The Breed Standard provides a description of the ideal characteristics for each breed, covering everything from appearance and structure to temperament and health.

The dogs that most closely meet their breed’s Standard are awarded the top prizes.

Getting Started in Dog Showing

Before entering a show, make sure your dog is registered on the Breed Register and is at least six months old.

If you're unsure whether your dog is registered, or would like more information about registering your dog, check the relevant registration requirements for your country.

How Can I Prepare for a Dog Show?

While you can simply enter a show and see how you go, a little preparation can help make the experience more enjoyable for both you and your dog.

A great way to find out whether dog showing is right for you is to attend a show – or even a few – and see what it's all about. Watching the classes will give you a better idea of what happens in the ring and what judges look for in each breed.

You can also consider attending a ringcraft class. Ringcraft classes are designed to help owners and dogs prepare for the show ring, including learning how to present and handle your dog.

It's also worth familiarising yourself with the Breed Standard for your dog's breed. This will help you understand the characteristics and qualities judges will be looking for.

What Type of Dog Show Is Right for Me?

There are different types of dog shows and classes available, so it's worth doing some research to find one that suits you and your dog.

Before entering, check the show's schedule carefully. It will provide information about the event and list the classes being held, along with details about which dogs are eligible to enter.

What Classes Can I Enter?

Choose a class that is suitable for your dog and check the eligibility requirements before entering.

The show schedule is the best place to find information about the classes available. Reading through the descriptions will help you work out which class is most appropriate for your dog.

For Australian exhibitors, make sure you check the requirements of the relevant canine organisation or dog show in your state or territory, as registration, eligibility and class requirements can vary.

Things to Consider

Your dog's health and welfare should always come first. Before taking part in dog showing, make sure your dog is fit, healthy and comfortable participating in training and competition.

Regular veterinary care, appropriate exercise, good nutrition and responsible training will all help your dog enjoy the experience.

Legally Compliant ID Tag

Wherever you live, it's important to make sure your dog has appropriate identification.

For Australian dog owners, registration and identification requirements can vary between states and territories, so check your local council or state requirements.

We also recommend having a clearly engraved ID tag on your dog's collar, including your name and contact number. Adding your phone number makes it much easier for someone to contact you quickly if your dog ever goes missing.

What to Expect at Crufts

1. Breed Competitions

Watch dogs from around the world compete for some of the most prestigious titles in the dog-showing world. Each breed is judged against its breed standard, with judges considering characteristics such as conformation, movement and temperament.

2. Agility and Obedience

Get ready for plenty of excitement as dogs take on challenging agility courses and demonstrate their incredible training, focus and obedience.

3. Discover Dogs

The Discover Dogs area is a great opportunity to learn more about different breeds and meet dogs up close. It's particularly useful for anyone considering adding a dog to their family and wanting to find out which breed might be the right fit.

4. Rescue and Rehoming Stories

Crufts isn't only about pedigree competition. Rescue and rehoming stories are also an important part of the event, celebrating dogs that have found loving homes and highlighting the difference responsible ownership can make.

5. Expert Talks and Demonstrations

Pick up useful advice from vets, behaviourists, trainers and other canine experts. Topics can range from grooming and training to nutrition, health and general dog welfare.

6. Shopping and New Products

There are plenty of opportunities to browse stalls filled with dog food, toys, accessories, grooming products and other canine essentials. It's a great place to discover new products and treats for your four-legged friend.

7. Young Handlers and Junior Events

Young dog lovers and handlers also get their chance to shine, demonstrating that a passion for dogs can start at any age.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a lifelong dog lover, an experienced exhibitor or simply curious about the world of dog shows, Crufts is a wonderful celebration of all things canine.

From impressive performances and breed competitions to heartwarming rescue stories, there's something for every dog lover to enjoy. Most importantly, it's a celebration of the special bond between dogs and the people who love them.