I brought my scruffy rescue to Crufts expecting to feel out of place among the perfectly groomed champions, but what happened inside the world’s most glamorous dog show completely changed me
The smell of perfume lingers on the air in this massive hall, harshly lit with spotlights. There’s makeup and glitter on every surface, freshly-cut hair flying around.
And trophies, so many trophies. Yes, I’m describing a beauty pageant – but not the kind where humans are the stars of the show.
Crufts, at the NEC in Birmingham, attracts millions of dog-lovers from all over the world every year. This is my second year attending, but the first where I’ve been joined by my two-year-old Romanian rescue dog, Puck.
I think of myself as a bit of a canine expert, but bringing him to this prestigious and – let’s be honest – ludicrous environment has taught me the most unexpected things
Unlike the competitors here, Puck isn’t a pure breed, let alone born with a pedigree. He was rescued from the streets and had a troubling past that has left its psychological mark. He hasn’t been trained to pose for the camera.
However, Puck still has beauty. I know this, not just because I’m his proud dog mum, but because everyone smiles and compliments him as we pass.
The dogs on display here are meant to be the epitome of canine perfection. Some of them are literally selected as the most gorgeous-looking of their kind, with the most stunning of all crowned the Best In Show winner.
But taking a break from the chaotic stream of visitors and stressed human competitors, I can’t help but notice Puck’s patience. Many frustrated show dogs are barking, whining, done with it all.
Puck, on the other hand, is quiet, observing, waiting for the next move. He has dealt well with today’s anxiety – tolerating the London tube, a train to Birmingham and a hectic hall full of rowdy dogs and strangers.
To make him feel more like a show dog, I’ve been taking him through a few light agility stunts. He’s not exactly been thrilled to jump through hoops and pose on various podiums, but he’s accepted it all with good grace.
Whatever I need from him, he’ll give it a go. Perhaps not elegantly like his counterparts, but nonetheless, he does it.
I’ve even had Puck brushed by a professional groomer, again getting over his nerves. And while some snobby owners have shooed their pets away from him, worried he would mess up their perfect coiffe, he’s been happy to welcome pets from strangers and sniffles from his canine peers.
Not all competitors and breeders are unfriendly though. I was keen to speak to the experts in the Discover Dogs area of the show, where visitors can meet and greet about 200 different breeds.
I recently did a DNA test to learn more about my pup’s history. Amongst an impressive mix of dozens of breeds, his genetics include Canaan Dog, originating from the Middle East.
“It’s one of the oldest dog breeds in the world,” a friendly breeder tells me at the Canaan dog stand. I feel taken aback at the resemblance between him and the two dogs on display, especially in terms of their behaviour.
The breeder confirms they can be a “wary” breed, which resonates with his personality. I’m glad to have got this opportunity to understand him better. It seems his aloofness may not all be trauma-based.
We head to the training area, where a lovely lady analyses his body language. “For a street dog, he’s doing extremely well right now,” she says.
I ask about my difficulties training him, saying he doesn’t seem motivated by food or toys, making it hard to associate commands with positive reinforcement. “I’d say give it more time,” she reassures me. So does Puck have what it takes to be a dog show champion?
No, no he does not. But is Puck a good dog?
Absolutely, a proper good boy. Today at Crufts I’ve learned that what makes a good dog isn’t flawless groomed fur, or an impressive stance.
Neither is it an ability to achieve impressive tricks, or aperfect pedigree. What makes a good dog is loyalty.
It comes in the form of patience, acceptance, and unconditional love. Crufts 2026 is taking place today and tomorrow at the NEC in Birmingham. For more information and tickets, head to crufts.org.uk
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