Scruffts is a competition, similar to that of a
conformation show for
purebred dogs, where
mixed-breed dogs of any parentage are allowed to compete. It is
hosted by
The Kennel Club of the
United Kingdom and is named after its world-famous annual show,
Crufts.
At Scruffts, dogs compete for the titles of:
"Handsome dog": For dogs aged 6 months to 7 years
"Beautiful bitch": For bitches aged 6 months to 7 years
"Child's best friend": For dogs or bitches aged 6 months to 12 years,
handled by a child aged 6 to 16 years
"Golden Oldie": For dogs or bitches aged 8 to 12 years
Scruffts was designed for people or families who do not have, or cannot
afford, a purebred dog and who want to experience conformation competition with
their dogs. It is said to help strengthen the bond between dog and owner as well
as to help people meet others with a similar interest in dogs. Just as
crossbreeds are not allowed to enter true conformation shows, purebred dogs are
not welcome in Scruffts, regardless of whether they are registered with The
Kennel Club.
As Scruffts is just for fun and not a "true" or "serious" conformation, it
only costs
£1
per entry. Judges cannot refer to a
breed standard and therefore dogs are judged only on "Good Character", "Good
Health", and "Good temperament with both people and dogs". Rosettes are awarded
to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd positions in each class, and each dog or bitch that
receives a 1st placement is eligible to compete in the final at the end of the
year.