Laura Crombie's Journey to Crufts Presenter
Laura Crombie, a dog trainer and one of the presenters for 's coverage of Crufts, described preparing to commentate on her sixth show as "a real passion." At 40 years old and based in Hagley, Worcestershire, Crombie has been involved in showing and judging dogs since childhood.
If you told me when I was 12 when I came to my first Crufts that one day I'd be working with Clare Balding and Claudia Winkleman, I'd have never believed you,
she said.
From Thursday to Sunday, more than 18,600 dogs from around the world will participate at Birmingham's NEC, showcasing their skills and pedigree.
Crombie reflected on how her path to this "dream job" began early in life.
My parents didn't like dogs, we were never allowed one growing up so my sister and I took it upon ourselves to advertise in all the local papers and shops to see if anyone wanted their dogs walked,
she explained.
A lady replied and it turned out she had a kennel of Irish setters which were show dogs and it sort of stemmed from there.
She later transitioned into journalism, creating YouTube videos, and eventually approached to join their team, which they accepted.
I then moved into journalism and ended up doing YouTube videos and I basically asked if I could join the team until they said yes,
Crombie added.
The Evolution of Crufts and Its Celebration of All Dogs
The presenter noted that Crufts has evolved over the years, with The Kennel Club, the event's organizers, aiming to celebrate all dogs.
There's a lot more focus on the flyball, the agility, the obedience, things like the Hero Dog Awards and Scrufts to try and make it a celebration of all dogs.
She emphasized that while these activities have gained prominence, the competition for pedigree dogs remains central.
As well as still honouring the fact that this is a competition for pedigree dogs and Best in Show is the ultimate accolade in the whole dog world,
she said.
What Does It Take to Get a Winning Show Dog at Crufts?
Crombie described the process of selecting a winning show dog as beginning from birth.
You have to have the eye and pick up on which dog has got the best characteristics, but also which one has got the personality,
she said.
For a prestigious event like Crufts, she explained that while confirmation of movement is important, an additional quality sets the best apart.
Your confirmation of movement will get you so far, but it is that extra level, that 'je ne sais quoi', that is what makes a best in show winner.
She stressed the importance of grooming, physical condition, and the wellbeing of the dogs.
You need to make sure your dog is well groomed and in good muscular condition, and most importantly, we want our dogs to be happy and healthy,
she added.
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