The judges narrowed the playing field to Astro, CoCo, Harry, India, Marnie, Phil and Rosco. No, I'm not talking about American Idol. I'm referring to Crufts' 102nd prestigious dog show. The world's largest dog show took place last week in Birmingham, England. On Sunday, a six year-old Norfolk Terrier won "Best in Show." Her master calls her CoCo. But her show name is Champion Cracknor Cause Celebre; a big name for such a little pup.
CoCo beat out six top dogs. She beat the top Chihuahua named Astro, the top beagle named Harry, a Belgian Shepherd named India, a Japanese Shiba Inu named Marnie, a giant Schnauzer named Phil and an English Setter named Rosco, in addition to the other 21,500 contestants.
Norfolk Terriers are a small, sturdy dog which get their name because they are native to East Anglia. The Norfolk and Norwich Terriers started out as one breed, but were officially separated in England in 1964. Before 1979, they were known as the Norwich terrier with drop ears. Thereafter, they became a separate breed known as the Norfolk Terrier. After Sunday's championship, it is no wonder they have become an even more popular breed.
Crufts is the largest dog show in the world. Organizers said 120,000 people attended the four-day event at Birmingham's National Exhibition Center.
According to her owners, CoCo enjoys hunting mice and small birds and lounging on the sofa.
Last year, CoCo gave birth to three puppies.
CoCo is owned by Pamela Beale, Stephanie Ingram and Elisabeth Matell, from Ashford in Kent, and was handled by an American, Peter Green.
Peter Green, CoCo's handler, said this would be Champion Cracknor Cause Celebre's last competition.
Green said:
She really enjoyed it. She's a phenomenal little dog and she's traveled all over the world. She took it all in her stride tonight and it was a dream come true for me. I've been coming here since 1952 and I'll keep coming back.
Coco was very confident going into the group.
As I was born in the U.K., I am delighted to come back and make CoCo best in show, especially as this will be her last event.
She has gone out on a real high.
All of the 20,000 dogs had a "tail of bravery," but a special group was called out this year.
At the 102nd Crufts show the judges gave out Kennel Club Hero Dog of The Year award to a pup by the name of Buster.
Buster is a sniffer dog who's work uncovering weapons caches and bombs in war zones around the world has saved the lives of countless military personel.
Buster was recognized along with five other deserving dogs, in a 'competition' seen as a welcome departure from the pure dog show aspect of the Crufts event.
K9 Magazine had reporters in attendance on each day at the competition.
They compiled their own list of 'Alternative Crufts Awards' ...
1) Most impressive dog in attendance - Tangle.
The UK's Coolest Canine, Tangle is a pioneering Cocker Spaniel who is helping in the fight to detect early signs of cancer in people. He is trained by the charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and he, and the work he does is truly impressive.
2) Most impressive trade stand - The RSPCA 'Home Alone' exhibit
A truly eye catching use of space which grabbed the attention of everyone who passed it. The RSPCA set up a mock living room scene showing a dog who had been left alone for a long time and had become so stressed, he had taken to destructive behavior in his enclosed environment. A very eye opening and worthwhile message portrayed in with a clever and creative method.
3) Dog we'd most like to take home - Speedy
The Cairn Terrier was 'taking part' in the obedience competition but had very little interest in playing the game to the great amusement of everyone in the crowd.
4) Most eye-catching breed on display at Discover dogs - The impressive but incredibly placid Anatolian Shepherd dogs.
The Crufts Dog show is organized by The Kennel Club in the U.K.
Crufts 2006 will take place from March 9th – 12th.
Tickets will go on sale in September 2005.
Congratulations CoCo, Pamela, Stephanie, Elisabeth, Peter and all of the other dogs, owners and trainers who won in their group.
Inspire & Be Inspired.
Here's to healthy, adventuresome, soulful, "Cause Celebre" living!
~ Jennifer Carolyn King, Rugged Elegant Living publisher
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Crufts: Where Dog Lovers Unite & Compete at The World's Largest Best of Breed Show
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