What is Crufts & how did it all begin?

Discover the history of Crufts, the world's biggest dog show!

Crufts is a prestigious event that celebrates the very best of man's best friend. It was established in 1891 by Charles Cruft, a British entrepreneur who was passionate about dogs.

Originally, Crufts was intended as a showcase for working and sporting dogs, but over time it has evolved into a celebration of all breeds, with competitions in agility, obedience, and flyball.

The first Crufts show took place in 1891 at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington, London. It featured over 2,000 entries, with breeds ranging from Irish Wolfhounds to Chihuahuas.

Crufts has since become an international event, with exhibitors and competitors from all over the world. It takes place over four days at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham each year around March.

In addition to the competitions, Crufts also features a variety of displays and demonstrations, including police dog displays, heelwork to music, and breed parades. There is also a large shopping area where visitors can purchase everything from dog food to accessories.

Crufts has become an iconic event in the world of dogs, and winning a prize at the show is considered the ultimate accolade for breeders and owners alike.

Who was Charles Alfred Cruft?

Charles Alfred Cruft was a British entrepreneur who is best known for founding the world-famous dog show, Crufts. Here are some key facts about Charles Cruft and his legacy:

• Charles Cruft was born on June 28, 1852, in Northampton, England.

• He began his career in the dog world by working for James Spratt, a manufacturer of dog biscuits.
• In 1878, he joined the dog show world, working as an assistant secretary for the Allied Terrier Club's dog show in Islington, London.
• In 1891, Charles Cruft founded his own dog show, which he named after himself - Crufts.
• The first Crufts show took place at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington, London and featured exactly 2,437 entries.
• The show was originally intended as a showcase for working and sporting dogs, but it has since expanded to include all breeds of dogs.
• Crufts has become the largest and most prestigious dog show in the world, attracting exhibitors and competitors from all over the globe.
• The show now takes place over four days at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, England and attracts over 20,000 dogs each year.
• In addition to breed competitions, Crufts also features a variety of displays and demonstrations, including police dog displays, heelwork to music, and breed parades.
• Charles Cruft passed away on September 10, 1938, at the age of 86.
• Despite his passing, Crufts remains an iconic event in the dog world, and winning a prize at the show is still considered the ultimate accolade for breeders and owners alike.

Charles Cruft's legacy lives on through the continued success and popularity of the Crufts dog show. His passion for dogs and his dedication to promoting them as valuable members of society is a testament to his lasting impact on the world of canines.