The world-famous Crufts Dog Show crowned a new champion in 2026: Bruin, a four-year-old Clumber Spaniel. The event took place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham and brought together thousands of dogs from around the world. After four thrilling days, Bruin proudly took home the Best in Show title, winning cheers from the crowd and praise from dog lovers everywhere.
Bruin is owned and handled by Lee Cox, who called his companion “a dog of a lifetime.” The emotional moment came Sunday evening when they won the final prize, fulfilling Cox’s dream.
“I can’t believe it,” he said after the win. “It’s just wonderful for this breed. He’s a bit of a diva, a bit like me, but he would never let me down.”
Bruin’s victory is especially meaningful because the Clumber Spaniel is considered a rare breed in the United Kingdom. The Kennel Club lists it as a “vulnerable native breed,” with fewer than 300 puppies registered each year. The last time a Clumber Spaniel won Crufts Best in Show was in 1991, making Bruin’s triumph a historic moment for the breed.
Bruin, whose full name is Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, had already impressed the judges by winning the Gundog Group before taking the overall title judged by Tamas Jakkel.
The 2026 show saw more than 18,600 dogs competing, including a record 4,299 international entries, highlighting Crufts’ global appeal.
To win the top title at Crufts, a dog first has to win its breed category, then its group category. The final round brings together winners from seven groups: working, pastoral, terrier, hound, toy, utility, and gundog.
Judges carefully evaluate each dog based on several factors, including health, structure, movement, and temperament. Bruin impressed the judges with his calm presence, strong build, and classic Clumber Spaniel characteristics.
The Reserve Best in Show went to Meghan, a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. Other finalists were Viking, a Tibetan Mastiff from the working group, and Hazel, a Welsh Corgi from the pastoral group.
Clumber Spaniels are among the oldest spaniel breeds, dating back to the late 18th century. They are linked to Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, where the Duke of Newcastle developed them. Historically, these dogs were trusted hunting companions, especially skilled at flushing game birds like pheasants.
Today, Clumber Spaniels are known for their gentleness, intelligence, and loyalty. They are sturdy, low-set dogs with broad heads, droopy ears, and thick white coats often marked with lemon or orange patches.
Although they appear calm, Clumber Spaniels are determined workers with a strong sense of smell and excellent tracking skills. With the right training and grooming, they also make loving family pets.
Crufts itself has a long and proud history. The show began in 1891 and was founded by Charles Cruft, who was inspired by the dog competitions he saw while travelling for a dog biscuit company. Over the decades, the event has grown into the world’s largest and most famous dog show.
In addition to the Best in Show contest, Crufts includes agility trials, obedience contests, flyball relay races, and even dog dancing, where handlers perform choreographed routines with their dogs.
Each year, the event celebrates not just competition but also the special bond between dogs and their owners.
For Lee Cox, winning at Crufts was more than just a trophy. It was the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.
“I was that boy looking over the balcony at Earls Court, watching Best in Show,” he said. “To stand here now with Bruin is incredible.”
