Crufts 2026 Day 1 Results: Working and Pastoral Group Winners Announced
The world-famous Crufts dog show made a spectacular return to Birmingham, delivering a memorable day of four-legged action at the National Exhibition Centre on March 5, 2026. Day 1 of the prestigious event featured agility competitions, grooming awards, and the highly anticipated announcements of winners from the Working and Pastoral groups, setting an exciting tone for the rest of the show.
Working Group Winners and Runners-Up
The Working group, which includes large to giant breeds with diverse coat types historically used for various tasks, saw fierce competition. The top honors were claimed by a Tibetan Mastiff named Dzhozias Viking, owned by Mr V Molnar, who was crowned the Working Group winner for 2026. Following closely, the reserve position went to a Rottweiler named Fantasa Strike While It's Hot, owned by Miss M Dunhill-Hall. Third place was secured by a Dobermann, Korifey Vanquish, owned by Mrs A L & Ms I Jones & Ushakova, while fourth place was awarded to a Great Dane, Diva Princess, owned by Mr Mick Stanton.
Pastoral Group Winners and Runners-Up
In the Pastoral group, originally bred for herding and protecting livestock, a Welsh Corgi named Bill Me Later, owned by Mrs C B & Miss N L Blance, emerged as the winner. The reserve spot was taken by a Shetland Sheepdog, Slack Alice, owned by Miss D Pearson. Third place went to an Old English Sheepdog, Dream Big with Bottom Shaker, owned by Mr Koroknai, and fourth place was claimed by a Polish Lowland Sheepdog, Mybeards Sweep, owned by Miss L Mottram.
Agility Championship Highlights
The agility competitions added thrilling speed and precision to Day 1. In the Small dogs category, the winner completed the course in 33.851 seconds with zero faults, followed by the reserve with 34.351 seconds and zero faults. The Medium dogs category saw the top finisher achieve a time of 34.341 seconds with zero faults. Both categories experienced three eliminations each, highlighting the challenging nature of the events.
Grooming and Presentation Awards
Beyond the group competitions, Day 1 also celebrated excellence in dog grooming. Rachel Plunkett with Jamine won the intermediates at the Dog Grooming Presentation. In the Poodle Open, Kim Misong with Simon scooped the prize, while Rebecca Moores with Tonic was crowned Poodle Champion, adding to the day's diverse achievements.
This opening day at Crufts 2026 not only showcased top canine talent but also reinforced Birmingham's role as a premier host for major events, drawing attention from dog enthusiasts worldwide.
