A shaggy four‑year‑old Clumber spaniel named Bruin stole the spotlight in the U.K., taking the top prize at the world‑famous Crufts dog show.
As The Independent reports, held at the NEC in Birmingham, England, the four-year-old dog from Somerset triumphed over 18,000 competitors from around the world during the four-day event, claiming the prestigious honor on Sunday.
This marks the first time a Clumber spaniel has won Best in Show since 1991. Judge Tamas Jakkel selected the spaniel, who beat the winners of six other groups to lift the coveted trophy.
Bruin, handled by Lee Cox, had earlier secured victory in the Gundog group. Cox, who appeared to be in shock when the announcement was made, said, “It’s just amazing, I mean, what can I say? I can’t believe it. Thank you so much. It’s just wonderful for this breed. You know, it’s just a… for the first time in my life, I’m speechless.”
He added, “He’s just, he’s a dog of a lifetime, he really, really is. He’s very, very special. I absolutely adore him. And he adores me.” Cox then joked, “I think he wants to eat your microphone”, before adding, “he’s just wonderful”.
Asked what his character is like, Cox said, “Bit of a diva, a bit like me really, likes his own way, very chilled, but will never, ever let me down. Never lets me down.” Earlier, he described Bruin as a “walking cartoon character in a fluffy white coat”.
Jannine Edgar, chief executive of the Royal Kennel Club, said, “Congratulations to Bruin and Lee for closing this year’s competition with a truly outstanding win and for taking home the prestigious best in show title. Their connection and skill in the ring have shone throughout, making them thoroughly deserving champions.”
She added, “We also extend our congratulations to all the finalists. Each dog, handler and owner should feel extremely proud of reaching such an iconic final. Crufts continues to be adored by dog lovers worldwide, and it has been wonderful to welcome so many competitors from around the globe this year.”
A four-year-old petit basset griffon vendeen (PBGV) named Meghan, was named Reserve Dog, or first runner-up. Meghan, who won the Hound group earlier in the competition, had travelled from from Croatia to participate in the worldwide event.
Said Edgar, “We’ve celebrated the extraordinary bond between dogs and their handlers across every competition and activity. Thank you to everyone involved for helping make Crufts the remarkable event that it is.”
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