Following the popularity of the Vulnerable British and Irish Breeds competition in 2018, the Kennel Club has announced that it will take place again this year, culminating in a grand final at Crufts 2020.
To raise awareness of vulnerable British and Irish breeds, and to recognise those people who are dedicated to their survival and prosperity, the Kennel Club created the competition in 2015. The competition has already proved very popular and at this year’s Crufts, Jane Curtis took the title with her Skye Terrier, Ch Brakemill Barnum ShCM, known at home as Barney.
Following the same format as last year, only the Best of Breed winners at designated group championship shows will qualify for the final.
The competition is open to all vulnerable British and Irish breeds competing at the following group championship shows:
- Toy — United Kingdom Toy Dog Society
- Terrier — National Terrier Club
- Working — National Working and Pastoral Breeds Society
- Pastoral — National Working and Pastoral Breeds Society
- Hound — Hound Association
- Gundog — National Gundog Association
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: “The Vulnerable British and Irish Breeds Competition final is a very important event at Crufts. It is a fantastic way to highlight the plight of these breeds and promote them as the wonderful dogs they are. Jane and Barney certainly did these breeds proud on the famous green carpet this year.
“It is important that the show societies work with breed clubs of vulnerable British and Irish breeds so that these clubs can inspire their membership to enter the classes and take part in the competition. Crufts is a great showcase for pedigree dogs and the perfect chance to show the world just how special the vulnerable British and Irish breeds really are.”
All Crufts finalists will be notified by the Kennel Club.