Crufts 2026 Day 3: Utility and Toy Groups Take Center Stage
As Crufts 2026 continues at the NEC Birmingham, Day 3 on Saturday, March 7, shifts the spotlight to the Utility and Toy dog groups. Today's events will determine two more finalists for the prestigious Best in Show competition, bringing the overall picture into sharper focus. With a packed schedule of agility displays, obedience championships, and the beloved Scruffts crossbreed show, attendees can expect a vibrant celebration of canine excellence.
Understanding the Utility and Toy Groups
The Utility group serves as a diverse category for breeds that do not fit neatly into other classifications. These dogs hail from various regions worldwide, exhibiting a wide range of sizes from small to large and featuring different coat types. Popular breeds in this group include Poodles, Dalmatians, and Bulldogs. Historically, Utility dogs have claimed the Best in Show title at Crufts on 13 occasions, though the last victory dates back to 2014. Judging for this group is scheduled to commence at 6:25 PM in the Main Arena.
In contrast, the Toy group is defined by its small-sized breeds, known for their affectionate nature and strong bond with owners. While their stature remains consistently petite, their coat types vary significantly. These dogs are typically devoted to human companionship, often enjoying close contact such as sitting on laps, though they may be less enthusiastic about interacting with other canines. Only four Toy dogs have ever won Best in Show at Crufts, with the most recent being Papillon Dylan in 2019. Judging for this group will begin at 7:15 PM.
Recap of 2025 Winners
In 2025, the Utility Group was won by a Miniature Schnauzer named Aidante Georgia On My Mind, commonly known as Liza. The reserve title went to a Lhasa Apso, with a Tibetan Spaniel and Japanese Shiba Inu securing third and fourth places, respectively. Other notable finalists included breeds like the Akita, French Bulldog, and Keeshond.
The Toy Group champion in 2025 was a Papillon named Ch Gleniren Miracle Starmaker, referred to as Sophia. A Maltese claimed the reserve position, followed by a Pomeranian and a Smooth Coat Chihuahua in third and fourth. Additional finalists featured breeds such as the Bichon Frise, Long Coat Chihuahua, and Yorkshire Terrier.
Day 3 Schedule and Highlights
The Main Arena hosts a bustling lineup of events starting at 8:15 AM with the jumping segment of the international agility competition for large dogs. Key highlights include the Scruffts semi-finals at 9:00 AM, where crossbreeds compete in categories like Most Handsome Dog and Prettiest Bitch, culminating in the finals at 5:40 PM. The international freestyle heelwork to music competition begins at 11:50 AM, offering a cultural twist on canine performances.
Young Kennel Club activities feature prominently, with the Agility Dog of the Year finals at 2:20 PM and flyball finals at 3:40 PM. Displays by the Good Citizen Training Dog Scheme, hoopers, Southern Golden Retrievers, and West Midlands Police dogs add variety throughout the day. The full Main Arena schedule runs until 8:05 PM, including the crucial Utility and Toy group judgings.
Additional Rings and Competitions
At the Obedience Ring, the obedience championships for dogs take place all day, showcasing the deep connection between handlers and their pets. The champion and reserve will be paraded in the Main Arena at 6:10 PM. The Young Kennel Club ring hosts early events like flyball semi-finals at 8:00 AM and agility competitions, concluding with utility and toy stakes finals from 2:35 PM.
The GCDTS Ring focuses on the Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme, starting with the Special Pre-Beginner Obedience Stakes grand final at 8:40 AM. The Bronze Award competition combines training exercises with obedience tests, with winners announced at 12:30 PM.
Ticket Information and Event Details
For more information and tickets, visit the official Crufts website at Crufts.org.uk. Admission is free for children under 8 years old. Advance tickets are priced starting at £16 for children aged 9 to 15 and concessions, and £24 for adults, with applicable fees. Tickets are exclusively available through the official ticketing partner, AXS, ensuring a secure and streamlined purchasing process for all attendees.
