Crufts 2026: Top Highlights & Irish Wins from the Birmingham Show
The NEC in Birmingham has just wound down after four days of total doggy chaos, and what a Crufts 2026 it was. From the roar of the crowd in the Main Arena to the quiet focus in the obedience rings, this year’s event gave us more drama, wagging tails and slobber than ever. And for those of us watching from our sunny island, there was plenty to cheer about.
Irish Eyes Were Smiling
You couldn’t walk through the halls without running into a success story with Irish links. The agility rings, always a crowd favourite, saw a brilliant run from Cork-based border collie Whisper, who flew through the course with a time that had the Irish supporters on their feet. She just missed out on the final podium, but her semi-final performance was the kind people will talk about for years. Over in the breed classes, a stunning Irish Red Setter from Wicklow earned a highly commended in the Gundog group, turning heads with that gorgeous mahogany coat.
Best in Show: A New Champion Crowned
The big one—the Best in Show final on Sunday night—was a tense affair. Seven group winners, each the best in their category, circled the famous green carpet one last time. This year’s judge, the highly respected Dr. Helena March, took her time, walking the line-up again and again. In the end, she chose a magnificent Portuguese Water Dog named 'Orri' from a kennel in the Lake District. Orri moved with ease, his coat gleaming under the lights, and he stood with the kind of calm confidence you’d expect from a champion. It’s the first time the breed has taken top spot since 2020, and the applause was deafening.
More Than Just a Beauty Pageant
Crufts 2026 reminded us it’s not all about looks and conformation. The Discover Dogs zone was packed with families meeting rare breeds and learning about responsible ownership. The Good Citizen Dog Scheme finals showcased the incredible bond between pet and owner, with dogs of all shapes and sizes showing off impeccable manners. And of course, the Heelwork to Music routines were as spectacular as ever—think sequins, perfect timing, and dogs weaving through their owner’s legs to a pulsing beat. One routine set to a medley of Irish jigs even got a standing ovation.
Unforgettable Moments from the Show
If you missed any of the live coverage, here are a few highlights everyone’s been talking about:
- The underdog story: A rescued greyhound from a Donegal charity, entered in the Special Veteran class, took second place—proof that rescue dogs can shine on the biggest stage.
- Agility magic: A tiny Jack Russell terrier from Wales absolutely smashing the large dog agility course, finishing two full seconds faster than any other dog in its height category.
- The flyball final: Four teams going head-to-head in a relay race that ended in a photo-finish and the loudest cheer of the weekend.
- Celebrity sightings: Quite a few familiar TV faces were spotted in the crowds, getting their doggy fix.
With over 18,000 dogs competing across hundreds of classes, Crufts 2026 once again cemented its place as the greatest dog show on earth. The drive home might be long for the exhibitors, but for the winners—and for those of us who just love a good dog story—the memories will last until we do it all over again next March.