On March 9, 2025, the prestigious title of Best in Show at Crufts was awarded to Miuccia, a four-year-old whippet hailing from Venice, Italy. Owned by Giovanni Liguori, Miuccia captivated judges and thousands of dog enthusiasts gathered at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC), triumphing over more than 18,000 dogs competing for the crown. The Best in Show ceremony was the culmination of four days of intense competition and showcases of talent from numerous canine breeds.
Miuccia not only stood out for her grace and poise but also for her proven track record, having already won champion titles across eight countries. The recognition at Crufts marks not just another feather in her cap but also highlights the growing prestige of Italian dogs at the event. Giovanni Liguori, visibly emotional after the win, exclaimed, “It’s really a dream come true. I am truly overwhelmed. Miuccia performed her best. I absolutely adore her. She is the sweetest dog.” With her stunning performance and gentle demeanor, Miuccia has surely captured the hearts of many this year.
The runner-up, Dzhozias Viking, was another crowd favorite, owned by Mr. V Molnar. The Tibetan Mastiff, with handlers Kao Miichi and Hiroshi Tsukuki, received significant applause, underscoring the competition's high stakes this year. Mr. Molnar shared his joy, stating, “We invest a lot of time in him, he came to us when he was just five months old. This is like a dream.” The passionate sentiments of both owners point to the deep bonds shared with these incredible animals.
Judging the event was Mrs. Patsy Hollings, who noted the exceptional quality of all finalists this year. “Congratulations to Miuccia who helped end this year’s competition on a real high, taking the prestigious Best in Show award alongside her handler, Giovanni Liguori,” said Helen Kerfoot, the Crufts Show Manager. The atmosphere during the award ceremony was electric, filled with cheers and supportive shouts for all the participating dogs.
Throughout the competition, the audience enjoyed the spectacle of multiple group winners all vying for the coveted title of Best in Show. Over the four days of Crufts, the event saw various breeds compete, with Miuccia topping the Hound Group before going on to outshine the other finalists from the Toy, Working, Terrier, Utility, and more groups. This year’s competition has been noted for its especially high-quality entries, with many dogs having impressive backgrounds and achievements leading up to their participation.
Fans took to social media to express their opinions about the results, highlighting their favorites. Many were particularly rooting for Viking to win and voiced their frustrations during the live event when the awards were announced. Observers on YouTube commented: “Nooo Mastiff,” when Miuccia was declared the winner, indicating the emotional investment many felt throughout the competition.
Miuccia’s win also signifies the whippet breed’s continued prominence at Crufts, marking the fourth time this breed has claimed the Best in Show title since the event began. The last time it occurred was back in 2018, emphasizing both the rarity and honor of such accolades. At the same time, it marks the beginning of what could be larger recognition for Italian breeds on the prestigious stage of Crufts.
Established in 1891, Crufts is recognized globally as the leading dog show, showcasing not only phenomenal canine talents but also the relationships formed between dogs and their handlers. Over the years, the event has grown tremendously, now attracting a staggering 150,000 attendees each year — not including the competing dogs themselves. This year’s event reaffirmed the importance of the bond with our four-legged friends, highlighted through various displays and competitions, including the much-loved Hero Dog Award, which recognizes the contributions of dogs to society.
A dog show is not only about competition but celebrates love, passion, and partnerships forged through years of training and dedication. These qualities resonate deeply with dog lovers worldwide, who gather year after year to witness the event. Best of Show winners like Miuccia not only receive the coveted silver Keddall Memorial Trophy but also become ambassadors for their breeds, inspiring future generations of dog handlers and enthusiasts.
Overall, Crufts 2025 has not only crowned Miuccia as Best in Show but has reinforced the show’s stature as the world’s greatest dog event. With the bonds formed and stories shared, the event leaves behind unforgettable memories and incredible moments. The show continues to thrive, championing canine companions and creating opportunities for dog lovers across the globe.