A German Spitz Klein From Middlesbrough Wins Place In Crufts Best In Show Final

Jen, a German Spitz Klein from Middlesbrough won Best in Group for Utility breeds at Crufts 2016 today (Thursday March 10th), qualifying her for a place in the Best in Show final on Sunday, the first time the breed has ever won the group.

Jen (Ch Longsdale's Jen You Win JW SHCM), aged six, will return to the Genting Arena at the NEC in Birmingham for a place in the final of the 125th anniversary of Crufts with her owner and handler, Dale Francis. People around Britain and the world will be watching to see which dog is crowned Best in Show as the final is shown live on Channel 4 and streamed on the official Crufts YouTube Channel - www.youtube.com/crufts.

Almost 22,000 dogs are competing over the four days for one of just seven places in the Crufts final and a chance to win the most celebrated title in the world of dogs. 

Proud owner Dale said: "I am absolutely delighted; this is the first time the breed has ever won the group. It's an incredible moment made even more special as her owner and handler. This means absolutely everything to us. It was a strong group and it's amazing to win. I know Jen will give it her best show in Best in Show." 

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: "Congratulations to Jen and her owners Dale and Gary for winning Best in Group today - it is only day one of four and already we can see that it is going to be an exciting final.

"Crufts celebrates healthy, happy dogs and recognises the special and unique bond between dogs and their owners. Jen is such a lovely dog that clearly loves being in the show ring and has a great relationship with her handler.

"Jen and Dale should be very proud of reaching the Best in Show final - it's an incredible achievement and not one many get to experience. We wish them all the best for Sunday."

For more information, visit www.crufts.org.uk. The results for Crufts 2016 can be found online at www.press.fossedata.co.uk.  For free downloadable images from Crufts 2016, please go to www.w-w-i.com/crufts_2016/.