Crufts Results 2026: Clumber spaniel Bruin crowned Best in Show
Crufts Results 2026 saw Bruin, a four-year-old clumber spaniel handled by Lee Cox, win Best in Show when the contest concluded on Sunday evening at 3: 30 PM ET at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham. The win closed a four-day event that featured more than 18, 600 dogs from around the world. Judges placed Bruin ahead of winners from six other group categories on the basis of health, structure, movement and temperament.
Crufts Results 2026 — the final ring and the contenders
Bruin, handled by Lee Cox and noted for a relaxed temperament and a distinctive fluffy white coat, took the top prize after being selected by judge Tamas Jakkel. The reserve Best in Show was Meghan, a petit basset griffon vendéen, who had earlier won the Hound group. Other group winners who reached the final judging included Viking, a Tibetan mastiff (working group); Hazel, a Welsh corgi (pastoral group); Dublin, a cavalier King Charles spaniel (toy group); and Freddie, a lakeland terrier (veteran competition).
This year’s field attracted entries from across the UK and overseas with an estimated 18, 600 dogs taking part in the contest. The top dog was determined in the ring by expert judges evaluating each finalist on core standards: soundness of movement, correct structure, clear indicators of health and a stable temperament suitable for the breed standard.
Immediate reactions from the ring and the kennel club
Owner and handler Lee Cox described the moment in the ring as overwhelming: “It’s just amazing, I can’t believe it. It’s just wonderful for this breed. For the first time in my life, I’m speechless. ” Cox added a personal note about Bruin’s character: “He’s a dog of a lifetime … he’s just wonderful. He’s a bit of a diva, a bit like me, he likes to have his own way. He’s very chilled but would never, ever let me down. “
Jannine Edgar, chief executive of the Royal Kennel Club, praised the winners and finalists: “Congratulations to Bruin and Lee for closing this year’s competition with a truly outstanding win and for taking home the prestigious best in show title. Their connection and skill in the ring have shone throughout, making them thoroughly deserving champions. ” Edgar also extended congratulations to every finalist, handlers and owners who reached the iconic final.
What to watch next
Organisers and judges will now begin post-show evaluations and breed health reviews that typically follow major events; attention will turn to how the win affects interest in the clumber spaniel breed and to entries for next year’s show. Handlers and exhibitors who reached group finals are expected to remain active on the circuit, and the kennel club will continue to publish official judging outcomes and guidance for breeders and owners. Crufts Results 2026 will be referenced in upcoming discussions on breed standards and competition practice as officials and breeders assess performance, health and participation trends from this year’s event.
(Timestamp: winner announced at 3: 30 PM ET. )
