Are you curious about Crufts?
Are you off to Crufts for the first time this year? Lucky you. It’s a thoroughly woof-tastic celebration of everything we love about dogs. You’ll spot exotic breeds, watch jaw-dropping agility displays and admire many a perfect haunch and glossy coat.
Lintbells has been going to Crufts since we were pups and we’re delighted to be sponsors this year. So here are our tips for what to see, what to do and how to get the most out of your visit.
Come and see us at stand 121 in Hall 3. You’ll get a special Crufts discount of at least 30% off all Lintbells products, plus a free tote bag when you spend over £50.
What we love about Crufts
“I love the atmosphere at Crufts,” says Rebecca Davies of Lintbells. “You can feel that buzz in the air from the competitors. After a long year of showing, this is where the dogs can go the extra mile and win the most important prizes. It feels like the highlight of the year in the dog world.”
Crufts is HUGE. You need a plan
“Crufts takes up five halls of the NEC in Birmingham and there’s so much going on,” adds Rebecca. “So it’s essential to plan what you’d like to see before you go, whether that’s watching competitions and displays, learning dog training skills or choosing the best dog breed for your family.”
Don’t step on any paws
Rebecca points out that it’s important to be aware of four-legged creatures when you’re making your way through the halls. The public can’t take their pets to Crufts, so any dogs you see will be competitors. “It can get very crowded and dogs will be walking around, looking their best, waiting for their moment to shine. So be understanding and give them some space,” she says.
What goes on in the Arena?
Across all four days, the Arena is action-packed. You’ll find yourself with thousands of other dog fans watching everything from agility championships and gundog displays to heelwork to music and the famous Best in Show competition.
Arena top tips:
- Check out the main Arena schedule to see what’s on each day.
- Get to the Arena early to bag yourself a seat and avoid queuing.
- You’ll need a separate ticket for the Best in Show
Who’s top dog?
This year, 22,000 dogs will be contending for the coveted Best in Show award. Last year, Tease the Whippet was officially crowned top dog, beating other finalists including Nana the Newfoundland and an Akita called Chanel.
And who’ll win this year? Statistically, Cocker Spaniels have triumphed more than any other breed, closely followed by Welsh Terriers and Irish Setters.
Beat the rush
Naturally, the weekend is the busiest time at Crufts, as that’s when most people are free. Plus, the Best in Show judging happens on Sunday. But there are activities and displays on all four days. So if you can, why not go on the Thursday or Friday?
Learn how your dog can be a good canine citizen
According to The Kennel Club’s Good Citizen Dog Scheme, there are no bad dogs, just untrained owners. Head along to the Good Citizen Dog Scheme area at Crufts to pick up training tips and techniques you can try out with your dog.
You might even spot some four-legged canine celebrities. A couple of years ago, Biff, aka Buster the Boxer from the John Lewis Christmas advert, made a guest appearance. (But did he bring his own trampoline along? That’s what we want to know.)
Discover the perfect dog for you
The Discover Dogs area is another of our favourite places to hang out at Crufts. If you’re thinking of getting a puppy but don’t know whether a Dachshund or a Dalmatian would be best for you, the clued-up owners and breeders at Discover Dogs can help you decide.
You can learn about the distinctive personalities, traits and looks of each breed and test out puppies for that crucial huggability factor too!
Bone up on exotic breeds
Crufts is the perfect place to spot the type of dog you’re unlikely to see in your local park.
We’ll be on the lookout for Pulis and Komondors, the Hungarian herding breeds also known as the ‘dreadlock mop dogs’. Despite those weighty-looking coats, they’re agile animals and it’s wonderful to watch their dreadlocks fly as they race along.
For sheer rarity value, the Laekenois Belgian Shepherd is hard to beat. You’ll be lucky to see one, though, as only two of this breed have been entered for Crufts this year.
Shop for everything for your dog – from Astroturf to Zoflora
Crufts isn’t just the world’s largest dog show, it’s also one of the biggest doggy shopping malls you’ll ever come across. Wander around 550 trade stands offering everything from tasty treats and clothing to accessories and grooming products. If your chilly Whippet needs a coat or your Lab needs a wash, you’ll find a stand that can help.
Come and say hello
Talking of which, we’ll be waiting for you at the Lintbells stand - number 121 in Hall 3. Our friendly team will be there, ready to help you with natural pet supplements to keep your dog visibly full of life, from nose to tail.
We’re offering at least 30% off all our products during Crufts, including these doggy favourites:
- YuMOVE Dog – proven triple-action joint supplement for dogs who are stiff or getting older.
- YuMEGA Show Dog – containing Omega 3 and 6 oils to help dogs look their best, whether they’re showing at Crufts or out for a walk.
- YuCALM – a premium supplement for stressed or anxious dogs (or perhaps any who are overwhelmed by meeting so many new friends at Crufts!).
As a Crufts special, we’re also giving a free Lintbells tote bag to anyone who spends over £50.
So do come and say hi. We’d love to hear how you and your four-legged friends are getting along. And don’t forget to post a picture of your visit to Crufts on our Facebook page or email it to us at info@lintbells.com.
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