As part of an ongoing review of the standards and processes surrounding Crufts, the Royal Kennel Club is introducing a number of additional protections ahead of Crufts 2027.
We know that the vast majority of people who compete at Crufts care deeply about their dogs and are committed to the highest standards of welfare and responsible participation.
The new measures build on the existing standards and regulatory framework and are designed to strengthen confidence and reassurance in the competition, support dog welfare and provide additional protection for everyone taking part.
From Crufts 2027:
We are requesting that all breed exhibitors and judges taking part in Crufts complete a voluntary declaration in respect of any previous animal welfare convictions.
Further information about the declaration and how it will be completed will be provided ahead of the Crufts 2027 entry process.
Group and Best in Show judges will also need to complete a DBS check, which the RKC will fund.
The health and wellbeing of dogs is something we all care deeply about. As part of our ongoing commitment to breed health and welfare, we are strengthening the veterinary checks carried out on all Best of Breed (BOB) winners.
From Crufts 2027, all BOB winners will be required to undergo a Veterinary Health Check in a dedicated Health Screening Centre before progressing to the Group competition.
This new measure builds on the existing veterinary checks already in place at Crufts and reinforces our shared commitment to the health and welfare of dogs competing at the show.
More information on what the test includes, where it takes place and a selection of FAQs are available on our dedicated web page.
These measures represent a wider programme of review and development. The Royal Kennel Club will continue to listen to the dog community, review its processes and consider further measures where they can strengthen welfare, integrity and confidence in Crufts.
Further developments will be considered ahead of Crufts 2028.