Crufts is a highlight for dog lovers across the globe as the world's largest dog show kicks off in Birmingham this week.
Crufts has been running since 1891, and quickly became an annual highlight for dog lovers.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, Crufts was cancelled last year as many fans of the event are expecting a bigger and better show for 2022.
The celebration of all things canine takes place over four days, with the Best in Show event taking place on Sunday night.
Here is everything you need to know ahead of Crufts 2022:
When is Crufts 2022?
Crufts 2022 starts on Thursday 10 March and finishes on Sunday 13 March. It is being held at Birmingham NEC.
What can I expect?
The huge world-class event will see 20,000 dogs compete for the prestigious title of Crufts Best in Show, will will be announced before 9pm on Sunday.
Disciplines include dog showing, agility, flyball, heelwork, obedience and obreedience (designed to encourage more breeds to have a go at some of the tests associated with competitive obedience but in a less formal competitive environment).
The four-day event also includes the finale of the prestigious Kennel Club Hero Dog Award (formerly the Friends for Life competition) which recognises unsung canine heroes, plus a celebration of crossbreeds with the Scruffts final.
If you are lucky enough to be attending Crufts, there is an amazing Discover Dogs section where you can meet over 200 pedigree breeds of dogs.
Discover Dogs is perfect for dog lovers who maybe aren't sure what breed will fit their lifestyle best.
There has been a huge increase in dog ownership during the pandemic, visitors to Crufts can also enjoy "the ultimate shopping experience" with over 350 stands selling dog food, toys and beds, as well as outdoor clothing and other equipment.
Vanessa McAlpine, Events Executive at The Kennel Club, which organises Crufts, said: "We’re delighted Crufts is returning in 2022, bringing together thousands of dogs and dog lovers and celebrating the unique relationship humans have with our four-legged friends.
"The highlight will always be Best in Show on the last night and we are excited to see who will take this crown for 2022."
Here is the full programme for all Crufts 2022 events here .
What's new this year?
Three different breeds are set to make their historic debut at Crufts this year.
The Hungarian Pumi will have its own classes for the first time; the Smooth Faced Pyrenean Sheepdog will make their debut at the show; and the historic Harrier will be making its first appearance in the Crufts breed ring since 1898.
Vanessa McAlpine, Events Executive at The Kennel Club, also teased there would be other firsts this year too.
She explained: "This year we are very excited to be welcoming for the first time a royal gundog display in the main arena, commemorating HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, as well as displays by Guide Dogs to mark the 90th anniversary of the charity and Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, who will be celebrating their 40th anniversary after forming at Crufts in 1982.
"Of course, the highlight will always be Best in Show on the last night and we are excited to see who will take this crown for 2022."
Where can I watch Crufts on TV?
Crufts is shown live on Channel 4 and More4. Here’s when you can watch each days coverage:
Thursday
- 3-4pm – Channel 4
- 6.30-8pm – More4
- 8-9pm – Channel 4
Friday
- 3-4pm – Channel 4
- 6.30-7.45pm – More4
- 8-9pm – Channel 4
Saturday
- 3-6pm – Channel 4
- 7-9pm – Channel 4
Sunday
- 3-5.30pm – Channel 4
- 7-9pm – Crufts 2022: Best in Show Live – Channel 4
How can I get tickets?
Tickets are on sale now through the Crufts website.
Prices vary depending which day you want to go.
Children aged under nine can get in free across the four day event.
For Thursday, March 10, general admission for an adult is £21.60 and for children aged 9-15, students and over-60s it is £15.12. Buy Thursday tickets here
For Friday, March 11, the same prices apply as for Thursday. Buy Friday tickets here
For Saturday, March 12, general admission for an adult is £27 and for children aged 9-15, students and OAPs it is £18.36. Buy Saturday tickets here
For Sunday, March 13,general admission for an adult is £23.76 and for children aged 9-15, students and OAPs it is £17.28. Buy Sunday tickets here
For those who only want to attend the Best in Show on Sunday, March 13, those tickets are offered separately and are priced from £21 to £28 depending on where you sit in the arena. Book your Best in Show tickets here
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