Crufts: A look back on the young and the old, Best in Show winners

Crufts, the world’s largest and most prestigious dog show, is set to return on March 7-10, 2024 held at NEC Birmingham. 

The event will feature over 20,000 dogs competing in various categories, such as agility, obedience, and breed conformation. The highlight of the show will be the Best in Show competition, where the top dogs from each group will vie for the ultimate honour.

As we anticipate the next champion, let us take a moment to appreciate some of the most memorable winners from the past. In particular, two dogs stand out for their remarkable achievements for their age: Chuckles the Bulldog, who was the youngest ever winner, and Jet the Flat Coated Retriever, who was the oldest.

Noways Chuckles

The Youngest Winner Chuckles, owned by Mr John T Barnard and Mrs M. Barnard from Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, made history in 1952, when he won Best in Show at the tender age of 1 year and 3 months. 

He was the first and only Bulldog to ever win the title, and the youngest dog of any breed. His adorable wrinkled face and determined spirit charmed the judges and the audience alike. Despite his tender age, Chuckles demonstrated exceptional breed characteristics and charisma, proving that greatness knows no bounds, even in puppyhood.

Chuckles’ victory was a testament to the popularity and quality of the Bulldog breed, which had been revived after nearly going extinct in the early 20th century. Chuckles became a celebrity and a symbol of British pride, appearing on covers and receiving fan mail from all over the world.

Vbos The Kentuckian (aka Jet)

The Oldest Winner Jet, owned by Jim Irvine from Edinburgh, Scotland, on the other hand, achieved glory in 2011,  when he won Best in Show at the ripe age of 9 years and 7 months. 

He was the second Flat Coated Retriever to win the title, and the oldest dog of any breed. His glossy black coat and soulful eyes radiated wisdom and grace. 

Jet’s victory was a tribute to the Flat Coated Retriever breed, which is known for its intelligence, versatility, and loyalty. Jet was a champion in both the show ring and the field, having won several working tests and field trials.  He demonstrated the enduring spirit of our canine friends, showing that age can be an asset rather than a liability. 

These two dogs exemplify the diversity and excellence of Crufts, which has been running since 1891. The show has seen 78 Best in Show winners, representing 43 different breeds. The most successful breed is the Cocker Spaniel, with seven wins, followed by the Irish Setter, Poodle, and Welsh Terrier, each with four wins.

Crufts celebrates the diversity and excellence of dogs, as well as the bond between dogs and their owners. It is a cultural phenomenon that attracts millions of viewers and visitors every year. Whether young or old, big or small, purebred or mixed, every dog has a chance to shine at Crufts.