Charles Cruft (general)

Charles Cruft (1852 – 1938) was a British dog show manager and businessman best known for founding and managing Crufts, the world's largest international dog show.

Born in London, Cruft began his career working for Spratt's, a manufacturer of dog biscuits, traveling extensively throughout Europe to promote the company. His involvement with dog shows began in 1878 when he managed the canine section of the Paris Exposition. Later, he organised dog shows for the Allied Poultry and Pigeon Show.

In 1886, he held his first dog show, called "Cruft's Greatest Dog Show," at the Royal Aquarium in Westminster. This show was initially focused on terriers. The show's popularity grew rapidly, and by 1891, it included all breeds.

Cruft was a shrewd businessman who understood the value of advertising and promotion. He transformed the show into a major social and cultural event, attracting royalty, celebrities, and dog enthusiasts from around the world. His management style was innovative for the time, and he implemented practices such as breed judging and pedigree documentation, which contributed to the show's prestige and longevity.

Following his death in 1938, his widow, Emma Cruft, ran the show for a few years before selling it to The Kennel Club, which continues to manage Crufts to this day. Charles Cruft's legacy remains as the founder of one of the most prestigious and influential dog shows in the world.