Final preparations for Crufts 2026

Keira is the third generation to compete at Crufts and her elder son Logan, seven, shows every sign of wanting to keep up the family tradition.

Keira’s preferred breed is the Smooth Collie, and at Crufts this year she’ll be competing her two-and-a-half-year-old Chester, who won best puppy in breed in 2024, and her older dog Chief in a veteran class.

“My Mum introduced us to the breed when I was about 10, and they really suit our lifestyle,” says Keira. “They’ll enjoy a 10-mile hike with you but just as happily watch telly with you all day if you need a lazy day.  They’re like Border Collies, but with an off switch.”

Emphasising that hers are “family dogs first”, Keira starts her puppies at ringcraft classes, backed up with some training at home, “but once they’re going to dog shows we stop the training because shows are quality training in their own right”. Her dogs love showing: “They are ruled by their stomachs so with all the extra fuss and treats at a show, they can be lunatics early in the season.”

Preparing for Crufts

Keira allows her dogs to “get filthy” until a few days before Crufts and makes sure nails and ears are tidy. “Chester could do with a bit more muscle on him so he’ll have a few extra walks before we go,  and I’ll beef up my older boy with some extra goodies — you have to take care to have enough weight on Smooth Collies.”

Why it’s an unmissable week

Competing at Crufts is like going on holiday for Keira. “We get to see friends and breeders from abroad we don’t see very often. But for me it’s all about seeing the dogs.. the French Smoothies  look quite different to ours; it’s as if they are wearing skinny jeans. While the Norwegian ones may have much more undercoat because it’s much colder over there. It’s really interesting.” 

After she’s competed, Keira usually returns to the show for a couple of days on the Discover Dogs stand which she recommends everyone visits to learn more about more unusual breeds. She’ll also meet up with her aunt who is judging the Norwegian Buhunds this year, see the Estrelas — the breed which first took her family to Crufts, tour the shops, and spend time on the Agria stand. “Both my Crufts dogs are insured with Agria. I find their premiums very fair, and I’ve used the free Agria Vet App multiple times; it’s so good for deciding if you have an issue that needs the vet or not.”

Advice for new Crufts competitors

Keira’s advice for any first-time competitor at Crufts is to take plenty of provisions, “soak it all in, enjoy the atmosphere and don’t panic. It gets busy and can feel very overwhelming. But just breathe and don’t hesitate to ask others for help or advice. Dog exhibitors are generally very friendly.

“And if you need a quiet sit down for a few minutes visit Agria, Eukanuba or another stand run by people who love dogs - they’ll always look after you.”