Wakefield and Pontefract businesses take centre stage at Crufts 2026

16 Mar 2026

Two local businesses made their mark at one of the world's biggest dog shows over the weekend.

Crufts 2026, which is organised by the Royal Kennel Club, began last Thursday (March 5) and ran until Sunday (March 8).

The world’s most famous dog show saw hundreds of dogs and their owners, compete in various categories, all to be named ‘Best in Show’ at the National Exhibition Centre, in Birmingham.

The weekend also featured a range of performances, seminars from vets and trainers and over 500 stalls offering a wide range of dog toys, treats and accessories.

Wakefield Business News

Among these was the Ossett-based business, Aurora Paws.

The dog lifestyle brand offers a range of eco-friendly dog toys as well as grooming products and harnesses.

On attending the prestigious competition, co-owner Martin Livesley said: “Attending Crufts as a small independent business is an incredible experience.

"It gives us the chance to showcase Aurora Paws on a truly global stage and meet both new and returning customers who care about sustainable products for their pets.”

The weekend proved to be extra special for the business, as it won the Agria Sustainable Exhibitor Award on the second day of the competition, which recognises exhibitors who demonstrate the best in sustainability through their products and working practices.

They also picked up the Crufts Best Small Stand Award.

Martin continued: “As a brand dedicated to eco dog toys made from natural and compostable materials, it was an amazing moment of recognition for everything we believe in.”

Another local business in attendance, was the Pontefract-based brand Snuffles – who returned for their second year.

Owner, Rachel Longfellow, said: “As a small 100 per cent handmade business, working solo to then attending such a huge dog event is a fantastic experience and feeling, quite overwhelming too as people are always so lovely and supportive.”

Handmade by Rachel, the interactive enrichment toy proved a hit among Crufts attendees.

"It’s always great to see new and old faces and be told that their dogs are still enjoying my puzzles that they purchased a year ago which is just an incredible feeling!” Rachel continued.

Crufts will return in March 2027.

For more information and the source, visit: Top dogs: Wakefield and Pontefract businesses take centre stage at Crufts 2026