Scottish terrier wins Best in Show at Crufts

A Scottish terrier has won Best in Show at Crufts – although her handler nearly missed the show when her flight was delayed.

Last show

Five-year-old Knopa beat more than 21,000 dogs to win the prestigious final, while Dublin the flat-coated retriever was runner-up.

Joining them in the Best in Show championship was a Maltese, a bearded collie, an Alaskan Malamut, a Saluki and a poodle,

This could be Knopa’s last show as her American handler Rebecca Cross plans to retire her.

‘Complete shock’

“I can’t believe it, I am in complete shock,” said Rebecca. “I almost didn’t make it, my flight was delayed, and I thought I wouldn’t make it in time

“Knopa was wonderful tonight. She is probably going to retire after this show – that makes this even more special.”

It is the first time in more than 85 years that a Scottie has won the title. Despite her Scottish roots, Knopa was bred in the USA and now lives in Russia – hence her show name, McVan’s to Russia With Love.