Crufts Dog Show 2026: Dates, Schedule, Tickets, Location, TV Channel, How to Watch

What is Crufts Dog Show?

Established in 1891, Crufts is the world's premier dog show. Hosted at the NEC in Birmingham since 1991, it spans four days and attracts nearly 20,000 dogs and over 150,000 visitors. Participants showcase their dogs' skills in competitions like agility, obedience, flyball, and more.

At its core, Crufts is a conformation show where dogs are judged against The Kennel Club’s breed standards—detailing ideal appearance, movement, temperament, and "fit for function" qualities that ensure health, vitality, and breed-typical ability.

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This guide is updated for Crufts 2026, featuring the latest confirmed dates, venue details, ticket options, and what attendees can look forward to.

Crufts 2026 stands as the world's largest and most prestigious dog show, drawing thousands of dog lovers, breeders, handlers, and enthusiasts from around the globe. If you're passionate about dogs, this iconic event is not to be missed!

The show highlights exceptional breeds and their talents, all judged under The Kennel Club’s strict standards for conformation, health, and welfare.

When is Crufts Dog Show?

Crufts 2026 is a four-day event running from Thursday 5 March to Sunday 8 March 2026.

Where is Crufts Dog Show 2026 Held?

Crufts 2026 takes place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, UK. This premier venue, opened in 1976, is conveniently located next to Birmingham International Airport and Birmingham International Railway Station for easy access by air, rail, or road.

How to Watch Crufts 2026 on TV?

Channel 4 and More4 provide extensive coverage (schedule approximate and subject to change):

Thursday 5 March: Afternoon/evening slots on Channel 4 and More4.

Friday 6 March: Similar timed broadcasts.

Saturday 7 March: Extended coverage including group judging.

Sunday 8 March: Full day with Best in Show live.

Crufts Dog Show 2026 In PHOTOS

What Is on at Crufts Dog Show 2026?

Full Of Schedule Cruft Dog Show 2026

The event is structured by breed groups across the four days (schedules subject to final confirmation):

Day 1 – Thursday 5 March 2026 – Working & Pastoral

Working Group: Breeds like Alaskan Malamute, Bernese Mountain Dog, Boxer, Bullmastiff, Dobermann, Great Dane, Rottweiler, Siberian Husky, and more—known for guarding, rescue, and working roles.

Pastoral Group: Herding breeds including Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, German Shepherd Dog, Old English Sheepdog, Shetland Sheepdog, Welsh Corgi, and others.

Day 2 – Friday 6 March 2026 – Terrier & Hound

Terrier Group: Spirited breeds such as Airedale Terrier, Border Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, and more.

Hound Group: Scent and sight hounds like Afghan Hound, Beagle, Bloodhound, Dachshund varieties, Greyhound, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Whippet, and others.

Day 3 – Saturday 7 March 2026 – Utility & Toy

Utility Group: Versatile breeds including Bulldog, Dalmatian, French Bulldog, Poodle (all sizes), Shiba Inu, Shih Tzu, and more.

Toy Group: Companion breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Pug, Yorkshire Terrier, and others.

Day 4 – Sunday 8 March 2026 – Gundog

Breeds traditionally for hunting/retrieving, such as English Setter, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Spaniel varieties, Weimaraner, and more.

This diverse lineup celebrates the incredible variety of breeds and their unique traits!

Crufts 2026 Dog Show Qualifications

To uphold standards, Crufts requires dogs to meet The Kennel Club’s criteria, prioritizing breed standards, health, and fitness.

Competitors and owners travel across the UK and Europe, earning qualification through top placings (often 1st or 2nd) in Championship shows.

Winners in conformation excel in appearance and health, embodying their breed’s true essence—peak physical form combined with functional ability.

All entrants are assessed as “fit for function,” ensuring they match physical ideals while demonstrating health and vitality. Winners face extra health checks, reinforcing Crufts’ dedication to ethical, health-focused breeding and welfare.

How to Get Tickets for Crufts Dog Show 2026?

Tickets for Crufts 2026 are on sale now! Purchase them directly from the official Crufts website (crufts.org.uk) or authorized platforms like AXS.

Can I Bring My Dog to Crufts Dog Show?

No—only invited competing dogs, assistance dogs, and those approved by The Kennel Club are permitted. General visitor dogs are not allowed.

FAQ – Crufts 2026

When and where is Crufts 2026?

5–8 March 2026 at the NEC, Birmingham, UK.

How can I get tickets?

Via crufts.org.uk or AXS; advance booking advised.

Do I need to book ahead?

Yes—popular event with limited availability.

What happens each day? Breed group judging (Working/Pastoral Thu, Terrier/Hound Fri, Utility/Toy Sat, Gundog Sun), plus agility, obedience, and more—culminating in Best in Show.

Can I take my dog?

No, except official entrants/assistance dogs.

How do dogs qualify?

Via Kennel Club-approved wins/placings, meeting health/breed criteria.

Parking/transport?

On-site parking, direct rail links to Birmingham International.

What else is there? Agility displays, Discover Dogs area, trade stands, grooming championships (new for 2026), and breed info