Flat Coated Retriever from Norway wins place in Crufts Best in Show final

Baxer, a Flat Coated Retriever from Oslo, Norway, handled and co-owned by Patrick Oware, won the Gundog Group title at Crufts 2022 today (Sunday 13th March), qualifying him for a place in the Best in Show final to be shown live on Channel 4 this evening.

Baxer (CH Almanza Backseat Driver), aged six, co-owned and bred in Sweden by Ragnhild Ulin, will return to the Resorts World Arena at the NEC in Birmingham for a place at the final at the world’s greatest dog show, Crufts.

People around Britain and the world will be watching to see which dog is crowned Best in Show this evening, as the final is shown live on Channel 4 and available to be streamed on the official Crufts YouTube Channel - youtube.com/crufts.

Over 16,000 dogs have competed over the last 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 co-owner and handler Patrick said: “It's totally unbelievable. I was just focussing on the dog and keeping him standing, and as I saw from the side the judge was coming over, I couldn't believe it! Baxer is a true flat coat, always happy, has this amazing will to please and always wants to work for his owners and handlers. His tail never stops! This dog is my dream dog, my best friend. I was just hoping for a placement in the class!”

Vanessa McAlpine, Crufts Show Manager, said: “We are overjoyed to see Baxer chosen as the Gundog Group winner today, handled by Patrick. Reaching the renowned Best in Show final is an achievement to be treasured and they should both be extremely proud of their wonderful bond and hard work.

“Crufts celebrates healthy, happy dogs and recognises the special and unique relationship between dogs and their owners. The confidence demonstrated by Baxer and Patrick and their support for one and other was clearly evident to the judge.

“It is so great to see the dogs and their handlers getting so much joy from the competition and we wish them luck in the grand Best in Show final this evening. We are sure all of Norway will be supporting them.”

For more information and results from Crufts, visit the Crufts wesbite.