Crufts Day 3: Toy Group Winner Announced, Eyes on Best in Show
The excitement at Crufts 2026 continues to build as Day 3 results were unveiled live, with the Toy Group winner now confirmed. This sets the stage for the highly anticipated Best in Show final on Sunday night, where all eyes will be on whether the Toy Group champion can claim the ultimate prize.
Judging the Toy and Utility Breeds
On Friday night, judges carefully evaluated the finalists in both the Utility and Toy dog categories, deliberating over their choices before announcing the winners. The Toy Group, known for its small-sized breeds often referred to as lap dogs, showcased a variety of coats and distinct personalities. Historically, these dogs are not always the most sociable with other canines, but their charm is undeniable.
Only four Toy dogs have ever won Best in Show at Crufts, with the most recent being Papillon Dylan in 2019. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to this year's competition, as fans speculate if the 2026 Toy Group winner could break the streak.
Full Results for the Toy Group 2026
The Toy Group results for 2026 are as follows, with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel taking the top honor:
- Winner: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Ellemich American Express (owned by Mrs M & Miss T Chapman & Ireland)
- Reserve: Affenpinscher - Sugarlane Gibbonback (owned by Mr Ad & Mrs M Stewart & Boulcott)
- Third: Maltese - Benatone Glint of Gold (owned by Miss S & Mrs R Jackson)
- Fourth: Italian Greyhound - Artmeis Raise The Stakes (owned by Mrs J B & Mrs H Amsel & Rishworth-Cutler)
Looking Back at the 2025 Toy Group Winners
For comparison, the Toy Group winners from 2025 included:
- Winner: Papillon: Ch Gleniren Miracle Starmaker, known as Sophia (owned by Mrs I & Mr G Robb)
- Reserve: Maltese: Am Ch It Ch Cinecitta Oliver Stone (owned by Mr F Prosperi)
- Third: Pomeranian: Ch Lireva's Wildest Dreams (owned by Mrs A M Cawthera-Purdy)
- Fourth: Chihuahua (Smooth Coat): Fr/ch/int Ch Definitely Maybe Drop It Like It's Hot (owned by Mr J, Miss M & Miss H Borges, Jolidon & Luy)
As the competition progresses, all attention now turns to the final rounds. With Claudia Winkleman making her hosting debut this year, the atmosphere is electric. Stay tuned for more updates as Crufts 2026 heads toward its grand conclusion on Sunday.
