Crufts 2026 returned to Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre with an exciting first day filled with energetic competitions and proud champions. On March 5, the world-renowned dog show celebrated the winners of the Working and Pastoral groups, offering a captivating showcase of these hardworking breeds.
The Working Group features large to giant dogs with diverse coat types, bred to perform tasks such as guarding, pulling, and rescue. Meanwhile, the Pastoral Group includes breeds developed to herd and protect livestock, ranging in size from small heelers to large sheepdogs, each with distinct coats suited to their roles.
Here are the highlights from Day 1:
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Working Group Winners:
- Winner: Tibetan Mastiff – Dzhozias Viking (Mr V Molnar)
- Reserve: Rottweiler – Fantasa Strike While It’s Hot (Miss M Dunhill-Hall)
- Third: Dobermann – Korifey Vanquish (Mrs A L & Ms I Jones & Ushakova)
- Fourth: Great Dane – Diva Princess (Mr Mick Stanton)
Pastoral Group Winners:
- Winner: Welsh Corgi – Bill Me Later (Mrs C B & Miss N L Blance)
- Reserve: Shetland Sheepdog – Slack Alice (Miss D Pearson)
- Third: Old English Sheepdog – Dream Big with Bottom Shaker (Mr Koroknai)
- Fourth: Polish Lowland Sheepdog – Mybeards Sweep (Miss L Mottram)
The agility competitions showcased remarkable speed and precision. Leading the pack was “I’m Feeling Chessy With Eager To Work,” completing the course in 33.851 seconds with zero faults, followed closely by “Devongem Eruption Of Fire” and “Bright Skye At Hornspike.” Despite several competitors facing eliminations due to faults, the day highlighted the skill and dedication of both dogs and handlers.
In grooming events, Rachel Plunkett with Jamine took the top spot in the Intermediates category, while Kim Misong with Simon won the Poodle Open. Rebecca Moores with Tonic was crowned Poodle Champion, adding prestige to the day’s celebrations.
Crufts Day 1 was a powerful reminder of the incredible capabilities and charm of dogs across a variety of disciplines, setting an anticipatory tone for the days to come.