The echoes of applause at Birmingham’s NEC haven’t quite faded, but the 2026 Crufts Dog Show has already etched itself into canine history. On March 8, 2026, dog lovers from across the globe watched as a Clumber spaniel named Bruin, handled by Lee Cox and hailing from Somerset, clinched the coveted Best in Show title. The win marked a triumphant return for the Clumber spaniel breed, which last tasted this glory back in 1991, according to the Press Association.
Bruin’s path to the top was anything but simple. Over the course of four days, he bested a staggering field of 18,000 dogs representing every imaginable breed and background. Earlier in the show, Bruin had already turned heads by winning the fiercely contested Gundog group, setting the stage for his ultimate victory. The final decision lay in the hands of judge Tamas Jakkel, who selected Bruin from among the winners of six other groups.
For Lee Cox, Bruin’s handler, the moment was almost surreal. “It’s just amazing, I mean, what can I say? I can’t believe it. Thank you so much. It’s just wonderful for this breed. You know, it’s just a… for the first time in my life, I’m speechless,” Cox told the Press Association as the crowd cheered. He went on to describe Bruin as “a dog of a lifetime, he really, really is. He’s very, very special. I absolutely adore him. And he adores me.” The bond between handler and dog was evident, not just in the ring but in every word Cox shared. He even joked, “I think he wants to eat your microphone,” before adding, “he’s just wonderful.”
When pressed about Bruin’s personality, Cox painted a vivid picture: “Bit of a diva, a bit like me really, likes his own way, very chilled, but will never, ever let me down. Never lets me down.” Earlier, he’d described Bruin as a “walking cartoon character in a fluffy white coat”—a description that seemed to capture both Bruin’s appearance and his larger-than-life charm.
Of course, Bruin wasn’t the only star of the show. The reserve Best in Show title went to Meghan, a four-year-old petit basset griffon vendeen from Croatia, who had earlier triumphed in the Hound group. Meghan’s performance was a highlight for many, as she showcased the unique qualities that have made her breed a favorite among enthusiasts.
Jannine Edgar, chief executive of the Royal Kennel Club, was quick to offer her praise. “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 said. She also extended congratulations to all the finalists, emphasizing the pride each handler and owner should feel for reaching such a storied final. “Crufts continues to be adored by dog lovers worldwide, and it has been wonderful to welcome so many competitors from around the globe this year. We’ve celebrated the extraordinary bond between dogs and their handlers across every competition and activity. Thank you to everyone involved for helping make Crufts the remarkable event that it is.”
But the Best in Show wasn’t the only headline to emerge from Crufts 2026. Earlier in the evening, the Toy dog group results were announced, offering their own share of excitement and surprises. The winner of the Toy Group 2026 was a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Ellemich American Express—better known as Dublin—owned by Mrs M & Miss T Chapman & Ireland. Dublin is no stranger to the Crufts spotlight; he previously won the Toy Group and earned a spot in the Best in Show final at Crufts 2023 when he was just 18 months old, according to BirminghamLive.
The competition among the Toy breeds is always fierce, given their popularity and the diversity of personalities and appearances within the group. Toy dogs, often known as lap dogs, are prized for their small size and affectionate nature, though they can be as varied in temperament as any larger breed. Interestingly, only four Toy dogs have ever walked away with the Best in Show title at Crufts, with the most recent being Papillon Dylan in 2019.
This year’s Toy Group reserve went to an Affenpinscher named Sugarlane Gibbonback, owned by Mr Ad & Mrs M Stewart & Boulcott. Third place was awarded to Benatone Glint of Gold, a Maltese presented by Miss S & Mrs R Jackson, while fourth went to Artemis Raise The Stakes, an Italian Greyhound owned by Mrs J B & Mrs H Amsel & Rishworth-Cutler.
For those keeping track, the 2025 Toy Group winner was a Papillon named Ch Gleniren Miracle Starmaker, known as Sophia, owned by Mrs I & Mr G Robb. The runner-up last year was a Maltese, Am Ch It Ch Cinecitta Oliver Stone, with third and fourth places going to a Pomeranian and a Chihuahua, respectively. These annual results serve as a reminder of the shifting fortunes and fierce competition that define Crufts each year.
So what makes Crufts such a draw, year after year? For starters, it’s the sheer scale and scope: with tens of thousands of dogs from all corners of the globe, it remains the world’s largest dog show. But there’s more to it than numbers. The event is a celebration of the deep connection between people and their canine companions—a bond that’s on full display in every wagging tail and every proud handler’s smile.
The 2026 edition was no exception. From the opening rounds to the final, the NEC in Birmingham buzzed with excitement, camaraderie, and the occasional nervous energy that comes with high-stakes competition. For the handlers, breeders, and owners, Crufts is a chance to showcase years—sometimes decades—of dedication and love. For the spectators, it’s a window into the world of pedigree dogs, rare breeds, and the universal appeal of man’s best friend.
As the lights dimmed and the crowds began to thin, one thing was clear: Bruin’s win wasn’t just a personal triumph for Lee Cox or a milestone for Clumber spaniels. It was a testament to the enduring spirit of Crufts, where every dog—whether a fluffy cartoon character or a regal lap dog—is given the chance to shine.