The Kennel Club has announced updates to the Respiratory Function Grading (RFG) scheme entry criteria for Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs attending Crufts 2025.
The changes, aimed at promoting better health in these breeds, align with the show’s commitment to advancing canine welfare and ensuring health-related standards are upheld.
Under the updated criteria, all Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs aged over 14 months as of the first day of the show, 6 March 2025, will need a valid RFG scheme assessment certificate. The assessment must have been conducted within the 24 months leading up to the show. Dogs assessed as Grade 3 on the RFG scale will not be eligible to participate.
Dogs aged seven years or older will be exempt from the 24-month requirement but must have completed at least one RFG assessment during their lifetime. The new rules also apply to international exhibitors, with equivalent assessments conducted by approved assessors in RFG scheme-licensed countries being accepted.
International Exhibitors and On-Site Testing
International exhibitors must meet the same RFG scheme requirements as UK participants. If an overseas RFG certificate cannot be obtained, exhibitors are required to arrange an assessment prior to the show. Testing facilities will be available at The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh Park, on 5 and 6 March 2025. Appointments must be scheduled in advance by contacting The Kennel Club’s Health department.
For convenience, exhibitors of dogs aged 12 to 14 months on the day of the show can access free RFG scheme assessments on Friday, 8 March. These assessments, although not mandatory, are encouraged. Appointments will be booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
To complete their entries, exhibitors must upload valid RFG certificates for dogs exceeding 14 months to their Fosse Data accounts. Certificates will then be reviewed by The Kennel Club. Exhibitors will be informed of approval or rejection as promptly as possible.
The Kennel Club recommends uploading certificates well in advance to avoid delays, especially as entry deadlines approach. While the review process typically takes 24 working hours, times may vary with increased demand closer to the entry closing date.
This year, The Kennel Club will once again offer free RFG scheme assessments for Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs. These assessments reinforce the organisation’s commitment to supporting the health and welfare of these breeds and ensuring that shows like Crufts continue to promote responsible breeding and care.
