Crufts 2025: World's biggest dog show kicks off at the NEC with new breeds and presenter revealed

Crufts 2025 officially launched today (March 4) at the NEC in Birmingham, with Paralympian Ellie Simmonds kicking off the world’s biggest celebration of dogs.

The much-anticipated event, which runs from March 6 to March 10, will welcome over 20,000 dogs under one roof, showcasing everything from agility trials to breed competitions and police dog demonstrations.

Highlights from the launch of this year’s event:

• New Crufts presenter for Channel 4, Paralympian Ellie Simmonds
• Breed making its debut at Crufts for the first time, the Polish Hunting Dog
• A Lagotto Romagnolo, the new breed welcomed the King’s family, set to take part this year and hoping to achieve a Crufts crown, following the breed’s win in 2023
• West Midlands Police newest puppy recruits who will be meeting and greeting the public ahead of the iconic West Midlands Police Dog display
• And the ‘Spring it On’ team of Spaniels competing at the event for the first time

Simmonds, a self-confessed dog lover, is joining the Channel 4 Crufts presenting team for the first time this year. "I've grown up with Crufts because I come from not too far away from here. You always knew Crufts was in town at the NEC! I've already spent so many hours with dogs and puppies, and it just brings so much happiness," she said at the launch event.

Among the standout moments was the debut of the Polish Hunting Dog, a historic breed making its first-ever appearance at Crufts. Also in the spotlight was the Lagotto Romagnolo, the breed recently welcomed into King Charles III’s family. One particular Lagotto Romagnolo, Savvy from Cheshire, has high hopes of clinching the prestigious Best in Show title after the breed’s first win in 2023.

The event will feature thrilling performances from West Midlands Police dogs, including their newest puppy recruits, alongside a duo of Springer Spaniels making their competitive debut in the Obreedience challenge—a test of teamwork among different breeds.

With 200 breeds vying for the coveted Best in Show title on Sunday, the competition promises to be fierce. Alongside this, athletic canines will take part in high-speed agility and flyball finals, while highly trained service dogs showcase their skills. The Discover Dogs zone will allow visitors to meet and interact with hundreds of different breeds, learning about their characteristics and suitability for different lifestyles.

Crufts isn’t just about competition; it’s a celebration of the incredible roles dogs play in our lives. The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award will shine a spotlight on extraordinary canines who have made a difference, while the Scruffts Family Crossbreed of the Year competition will highlight the UK’s top mixed-breed dogs. This year also introduces the Young Person of the Year Award, recognising young handlers making an impact in the dog world.

In a significant welfare-driven change, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs must now pass a respiratory health test before competing, an initiative aimed at promoting responsible breeding practices.

Beyond the show rings, visitors can browse over 500 trade stands featuring the latest in dog food, training gear, and pet accessories. Exciting live demonstrations, including police dog action sequences and high-energy flyball races, will keep audiences entertained throughout the four-day event.

With nearly 20 hours of TV coverage on Channel 4 and More4, Crufts 2025 is set to be bigger and better than ever. Whether through thrilling competitions, heartwarming stories, or fascinating breed showcases, this year’s event promises to be an unmissable experience for dog lovers everywhere.

For tickets and more information, visit the official Crufts website at crufts.org.uk. Tickets are available exclusively through AXS, the official ticketing partner.