Crufts schedule 2019: When is the annual dog show and how much are tickets? Plus everything else you need to know

Prepare for pooch pandemonium
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Alice Howarth6 March 2019

If you’re a fan of dogs, there’s little doubt you'll be excited about the return of Crufts.

A show dedicated to adorable pooches, every March they trot into a Birmingham arena to show off their skills and lap up the attention.

However, for those not in the know about Crufts (it’s only been running since 1891...) here’s everything you need to know:

What is Crufts?

Crufts is a celebration of all things canine. Mainly a conformation show, where dogs are judged according to how similar they are to their breed type, there’s also a huge trade show selling all the doggie paraphernalia you can imagine and some fun trick shows where the pups can show of their moves.

What is the history of Crufts?

Named after (and founded by) Charles Cruft - a man who worked at a dog biscuit factory and regularly travelled to dog events - the very first Crufts took place in 1886 with 600 entries and 57 classes.

By the close of the 19th century, entries amounded to 3,000 dogs and in 1991, the centenary year, it was recognised by the Guiness Book of Records as the world’s largest dog show.

Today, it’s estimated that 28,000 dogs take part in Crufts each year, with an estimated 160,000 visitors attending the show.

When is it this year?

This year Crufts will run from March 7 to 10 at The National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham. The first entry is 8.15am and the last is 6.30pm each day however Best In Show is from 4.45pm to 9pm.

What’s the schedule?

Day 1: Thursday March 7, 2019

Gundog

Day 2: Friday March 8, 2019

Working and Pastoral breeds

Day 3: Saturday March 9, 2019

Terrier and Hound breeds

Day 4: Sunday March 11, 2019

Utility and Toy breeds

Crufts through the years - In pictures

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Are there still tickets on sale?

Yes, but they are now only available on the door.

Can I bring my dog?

Not unless they’ve been invited by The Kennels or they are an assistance dog.

Can I watch it even if I can’t attend?

Yes, the show will be livestreamed on YouTube and shown for 13 hours across the fours days on Channel 4 and More4 with a Daily Crufts Show recapping the day.

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