A Clumber spaniel named Bruin has been crowned Best in Show at Crufts 2026, held at the NEC in Birmingham.
The four-year-old dog, from Somerset, triumphed over 18,000 competitors from around the world during the four-day event, claiming the prestigious honour on Sunday.
Bruin, handled by Lee Cox, had earlier secured victory in the Gundog group.
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.
Mr Cox 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.”
Mr Cox then joked, “I think he wants to eat your microphone”, before adding, “he’s just wonderful”.
Asked what his character is like, Mr 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”.
A four-year-old petit basset griffon vendeen named Meghan, from Croatia, who earlier won the Hound group, was named reserve dog.
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.
“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.
“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.”
