Pampered pooches are set to grace the stage this week, as the annual much-loved Crufts kicks off. The historic event will take place at the NEC in Birmingham, and massive crowds are expected to attend. Crufts is home to more than 500 trade stands, with around 18,000 dogs and their handlers performing in the ring. It is considered the most prestigious canine competition in the world.
![[Dogs wearing colourful coats and scarves descend on Birmingham for Crufts 2024]](https://static.standard.co.uk/2024/03/07/12/07115341-4f3d7422-8387-4fe7-8e36-26aac83abf73.jpg?crop=8:5,smart&quality=75&auto=webp&width=960)
But what is the dog show all about, when is it being held this year, and where can you see it?. Here’s all you need to know. Hailed the best dog show in the world, Crufts is a four-day international event that celebrates the best of our furry friends. It is held annually in the United Kingdom and has been going for years, with the first show held in 1891.
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Crufts competitions include dog agility, obedience, flyball, and heelwork to music. It also includes a large trade show of dog-related goods. Crufts splits their judging into seven breed groups, and the winner of each group goes forward to compete for the best in show.
![[Meet the very special hero dogs being recognised by Crufts]](https://static.standard.co.uk/2024/02/20/12/45/Crufts+2024-8myurtss.jpeg?crop=8:5,smart&quality=75&auto=webp&width=960)
The Crufts breed groups are:. Gundogs. Utility. Hounds. Working. Pastoral. Terriers. This year, the event will run from Thursday, March 7 to Sunday, March 11. 3pm-4pm – Channel 4. 6.30pm-7.30pm – More4. 7.30pm-9pm – Channel 4. 3.30pm-6pm – Channel 4. 7.30pm-8.30pm – Channel 4.
7pm-9.30pm – Channel 4. 4pm-6pm – Channel 4. 7pm-9pm – Channel 4 Crufts 2024: Best In Show Live. Advanced tickets cost £21 per adult each day on Thursday and Friday, with concessions for children and seniors. Under-eights go free. On Saturday, adult tickets start at £28, and on Sunday, they start at £23.
