Dog owners across the UK have been preparing for the prestigious Crufts dog show, the most significant event on their calendar. Crufts, known as the world’s greatest dog show, is held annually at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre and attracts competitors from all over the globe. Among the dedicated dog owners participating in Crufts this year is Gaynor Thomas, a courier from Cardiff, who will be showcasing two of her leonberger dogs – five-year-old Prussia and one-year-old Finni. Gaynor has been actively involved in dog competitions since 2000, bringing all seven of her leonbergers to Crufts over the years, after stumbling upon the breed during a visit to the ‘discover dogs’ section.
Gaynor shared that her passion for dog shows began when she acquired an Estrela Mountain dog and was encouraged to participate in shows. She highlighted the sense of community and friendship that comes with competing and the joy of meeting people from various parts of the country. Gaynor’s dedication to dog competitions has become a significant part of her life, with most of her annual leave and weekends spent on training and competing with her beloved dogs. She expressed her excitement about the upcoming show season and the possibility of travelling to France or Germany for competitions.
Preparing dogs for an event like Crufts is no small task, as Gaynor explained the meticulous grooming routine required to get her dogs show-ready. Days before the competition, the dogs need to be fully washed, have their feet trimmed, and their coats brushed out. With two large leonbergers to groom, Gaynor mentioned the time-consuming process of washing and drying each dog individually to ensure they look their best for the show. Despite the challenges, Gaynor’s dedication to her dogs is unwavering as she strives to present them in top condition at Crufts.
On the day of Crufts, Gaynor will be up before dawn to embark on the journey to the event, starting her day at 5.30 am to ensure she arrives on time. Managing two dogs for a competition of this scale is no mean feat, and Gaynor appreciates the support she receives from family and friends in making the experience enjoyable for both her and her dogs. Another dog enthusiast, Sandy Lipman from Livane, had planned to showcase her great Dane, Riley, at Crufts but unfortunately had to withdraw due to the dog contracting kennel cough, a potentially serious condition.
Sandy, who breeds great Danes, emphasised the importance of organisation and preparation for events like Crufts, even without her canine companion. She highlighted the camaraderie among fellow dog owners at the show and the delight of reconnecting with friends from various parts of the world. Both Gaynor and Sandy recommended starting with ringcraft lessons at local dog clubs as a stepping stone into the world of dog shows. Qualifying for Crufts requires placing in the top three of the age class at championship shows, with champions qualifying for life, exemplified by Gaynor’s dog, Prussia.
The dedication and passion displayed by dog owners like Gaynor and Sandy underscore the commitment required to excel in the competitive world of dog shows. Their love for their canine companions and the joy of participating in prestigious events like Crufts serve as a testament to the special bond between humans and their beloved pets. As the excitement builds for the upcoming show season, dog enthusiasts across the UK are gearing up to showcase the beauty, grace, and talent of their furry friends on the esteemed stage of Crufts.