Thousands of Show Dogs Expected for Crufts Qualifier at Loseley

Published on: 10 Aug, 2016
Updated on: 12 Aug, 2016

Rare British breeds including the Bloodhound will be on show at Loseley Park. The Kennel Club received just 77 new registrations for this breed last year. Photo: Diane Pearce / Kennel Club Picture Library ©

One of the largest dog shows in the UK will take place at Loseley Park this September.

More than 6,000 British and Irish native dog breeds, some very rare, are expected to participate in the popular Richmond Championship Dog Show, September 9-11.

The show will see more than 200 breeds and their owners from all over the British Isles and beyond compete in a bid to qualify for the world’s biggest dog show, Crufts, which will be held at the NEC in Birmingham next March (2017).

The pedigree dogs taking part will be judged on a number of factors in the ring, including temperament and that they are fit, healthy and happy dogs that are good examples of their breed, as they compete for the ultimate ‘Best in Show’ prize.

Glamorous Afghan Hounds wait to be judged at Richmond Championship Dog Show. Photo credit: Heidi Hudson / Kennel Club Picture Library ©

The show is one of the largest gatherings of dogs in the UK and will see rare native British and Irish breeds competing, .

Some breeds on show, such as the Bloodhound, Skye Terrier, Deerhound, Gordon Setter and Clumber Spaniel, are now bred in such small numbers that they are considered by the Kennel Club to be at risk of disappearing from Britain’s streets and parks.

The show is perfect for families researching the right breed of dog for them, and visitors will be able to meet the dogs themselves as well as talk to experts in each breed about finding a good breeder, what to expect from the breed, and training and care requirements.

Dr Ronald James, secretary of the show, said: “Ours is the largest dog show in Surrey, as well as one of the biggest in the UK, so naturally we are very proud of that fact.

“Being held in the historical setting of the picturesque Loseley Park, the show is very popular with visitors and brings thousands of dog lovers to the area each year. We are expecting this year’s show to be bigger and better than ever.

“Anyone thinking about getting a pedigree dog can come along and research their favourite breeds, as well as some of the lesser known breeds they may not even have heard of, and take the opportunity to meet the dogs themselves, which is definitely a favourite with families.”

Competition classes are held across the seven pedigree dog groups. Friday^,September 9 will see the Hound and Toy breeds competing, followed by the Terrier, Working and Pastoral breeds on Saturday 10 and the Utility and Gundog breeds on Sunday 11 which will also see the climax of the competition – Best in Show – followed by Best Puppy in Show and Best Veteran in Show.

Admission to the show is free but car parking costs £10. Visitors can bring their own dog to the show for a fee of £5, but they must they agree to complete and sign a written undertaking to keep their dog under control at all times.