All the 'paw'some facts you need to know about world's leading dog show Crufts 2025 at NEC Birmingham
As we head into Crufts week, we have compiled all the essential information you need to know about watching the world's leading dog show.
The NEC Birmingham is all set to welcome back thousands of our four-legged friends for the 34th year of the world-famous Crufts.
Established in 1891, Crufts is the biggest dog show in the world and attracts thousands of dogs and their owners each year to display their amazing pooch skills and abilities to the masses.
The competition show is set to take place next week, with the first day falling on March 6.
Who organises Crufts?
Crufts is organised by The Kennel Club, the UK's largest organization dedicated to the welfare of dogs and showcases various dog breeds competing in events such as obedience, agility, conformation and the ever-popular Best in Show.
Where is it taking place?
Crufts is taking place again this year at Birmingham's legendary NEC arena.
The venue has been home to Crufts for the last 33 years, with this year marking the 34th time the dog show has appeared at the location.
Who was best in the show in 2024?
Last year's Best in Show, which is arguably the most watched event, was an Australian shepherd called Viking, who stole the hearts of spectators and judges with his 'good-boy' nature.
The lovable three-year-old hound from Solihull appeared with co-owners, Melanie Raymond, John Shaw and Kerry Kirtley, and was also the winner of the pastoral group earlier in the four-day show.
How can I watch it?
Crufts will be broadcast on both Channel 4 and More4, or recaps of the show can be viewed later in the year on the dedicated Crufts YouTube channel.
The Best in Show live event will take place at 7pm on Sunday, March 9, with a closing ceremony taking place not long after.
What if I want to visit?
Tickets for Crufts can be purchased on an individual day basis from the AXS website, with the general ticket prices listed below.
Thursday and Friday: £27.
Saturday: £35.
Sunday: £29.
To purchase tickets, and for a full list of ticket prices visit the AXS website.
What can I experience at Crufts?
Crufts isn't only an exhilarating dog show, it's also a fantastic dog expo.
The event is a great place to learn about the newest care techniques, pick up the latest foods, buy dog-related products and also talk about everything canine.
At the event, you will also be able to talk to canine experts who will provide insights about everything ranging from training and breeding to behaviour and pooch mentality.
What can I buy on the day?
You can buy anything from the hundreds of stalls that have already signed up to appear at the event, including doggy products such as shampoos, foods, treats, toys, leads and collars.
But that's not all, if you want some human-orientated products, there will also be dedicated Crufts merchandise stalls that sell t-shirts, hats and all-manner of canine-related clothing.
What about food and drink?
The NEC offers a wide range of dining choices, as well as the very nearby Resorts World Birmingham, which offers restaurants like Five Guys, Las Iguanas, Miller & Carter, Nando's and TGI Fridays.
How can I get there?
There are plenty of ways to get to the NEC, however, the best way is to drive and get there early.
There is plenty of onsite parking at the NEC, but for those wanting to travel by rail, you can get a train from Birmingham New Street to Birmingham International, which is then a short walk to the NEC.
For more information on specific train routes and train times, check the National Rail website.
For more information on what to experience on the day, visit the official Crufts website.
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