Crufts is set to return to the NEC Birmingham from March 6 to 9 as the prestigious dog show sees over 18,000 dogs competing to be crowned Best in Show – but one breed has dominated the competition
As the countdown to Crufts 2025 begins, dog lovers are eagerly awaiting the world-renowned event set to take place at NEC Birmingham from March 6 to 9.
Known as the globe’s largest and most prestigious dog show, over 18,000 dogs will compete in various categories including agility, obedience, and the coveted Best in Show.
The competition, which dates back to 1891 and is organised by The Kennel Club, primarily focuses on conformation judging where dogs are assessed based on their adherence to breed standards. But Crufts is more than just a beauty contest for dogs.
It also features thrilling competitions such as agility, flyball, and heelwork to music, along with a vast trade exhibition showcasing dog-related products and services. Each year, thousands of dogs from around the world qualify to compete in their respective breed categories before advancing to group judging.
The champions of the seven breed groups – Toys, Gundogs, Utility, Hounds, Working, Pastoral, and Terriers – then compete for the esteemed Best in Show title. Over the years, certain breeds have consistently outperformed others at the event, securing multiple titles and proving their dominance in the ring.
However, the English Cocker Spaniel holds the crown for Crufts success, boasting the record for the most Best in Show wins with seven victories – three more than any other dog breed.
The English Cocker Spaniel, a jubilant and lively gun dog, has captivated hearts in the show ring with its boundless energy, infectious tail-wagging, and intelligent eyes. This breed’s consistent triumphs at Crufts are largely thanks to the efforts of the distinguished breeder Herbert Summers Lloyd of the prestigious “of Ware” kennel.
H. S. Lloyd is hailed as an influential icon in dog shows, having established the breed standard for the English Cocker Spaniel. His pedigree boasts six Best in Show victories at Crufts between 1930 and 1950—a feat unmatched by any other breeder since.
Illustrious champions from his line include Luckystar of Ware (1930, 1931), Exquisite of Ware (1938, 1939), and Tracey Witch of Ware (1948, 1950).
Despite this past dominance, since Lloyd’s heyday, the English Cocker Spaniel has captured the coveted Best in Show at Crufts just once, in 1996. Yet, the breed’s allure remains strong, with up to 370 entries expected to vie for the title at Crufts 2025.
Other breeds have also made their mark on the annals of Crufts: Irish Setters, Standard Poodles, and Welsh Terriers have each garnered the top honor four times.
Trailing close behind these leaders, English Setters, Flat-Coated Retrievers, German Shepherds, Greyhounds, Labrador Retrievers, West Highland White Terriers, Whippets, and Wire Fox Terriers have all clinched the prestigious title three times in the event’s storied history.
The English Cocker Spaniel, a breed with the charm to make waves in both the show ring and as a celebrated working gun dog, has its origins in hunting woodcock, which is how it bagged its name “Cocker”. Known for their unlimited vigour, loyal disposition, and keen hunting skills, there are two varieties making headlines: the robust Working Cockers, tailored for hunting and detection with their athletic build and shorter ears, opposed to the Show Cockers who strut their stuff with longer fur, gracefully drooping ears, and a broader build meant to dazzle at shows.
Meanwhile, on social media platforms, celebs and influencers can’t help but parade their own Cocker Spaniels, including none other than domestic goddess Mrs Hinch. The list of renowned Cocker owners shines with stars like Marilyn Monroe, George Clooney, and Oprah Winfrey.
Those hoping to get involved in the excitement of Crufts 2025 should know that tickets are already up for grabs, with prices starting from £27 – either hit up the official site or swing by the venue’s ticket office. Fancy being part of the action?
Head over to the Crufts 2025 Ticket Page, or soak up all the live drama on Channel 4 and More 4.
