Remember Kratu, the adorable Romanian rescue dog from the 2018 Crufts Dog Show agility course? He stole hearts around the world when he gleefully bounded through the obstacles at his own pace and in his own signature pattern. The scruffy pup even ran to the sidelines several times during his performance to greet onlookers. His epic fail made him an instant internet superstar.
Kratu returned to Crufts for the 2019 showcase, and let’s just say this very good boy is refreshingly consistent!
Kratu is obviously a talented pooch capable of acing the course. You can see from the videos of his now-famous performances that he can easily scale jumps, dart through tunnels, and scale the A-frame obstacle.
In fact, he is actually quite the champion, with Best in Show titles from Pup Aid, Dog Fest, and more!
What makes Kratu so lovable is that he clearly feels no need to follow the rules. He simply enjoys frolicking about with his mom and basking in the roar of the crowd. According to his Facebook page:
“He is a natural clown that just loves to play and make you happy.”
Now that Kratu has brought joy to dog lovers around the globe for the second year running, we decided to learn more about him. It turns out his backstory and “road to the ring” is quite fascinating.
Kratu’s life began at a gypsy camp in Transylvania where he and several other dogs suffered abuse and neglect. He was rescued at just four-weeks-old along with three of his sisters. Later, his mother and two brothers were also liberated from the camp.
Kratu began training at a very young age and immediately showed a talent for it. More importantly, he loved the physical and mental challenges training provided.
He is now a Pets as Therapy (PAT) dog in the UK where he uses his cheerful, uplifting personality to bring joy to people with dementia. He also serves as an Ambassadog for International Aid for the Protection and Welfare of Animals (IAPWA).
Kratu is a cross between Carpathian Sheepdog and a Mioritic Shepherd Dog. According to his website:
“This year I became the first Romanian rescue assistance dog to return to Romania to highlight what can be achieved through love, kindness and reward based training. In Romania my breed are known for guarding and not seen as pets, so for me to become an assistance and therapy dog astounded them.”
Kratu is certainly an impressive and lovable pooch both inside and outside the show ring! We can’t wait to see what he has in store for us at next year’s Crufts showcase!
Toledo, United States.
