Dogs smarten up as crowds flock to Crufts

Image source, EPA
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Who are you looking at? This bloodhound was taking time out at the show
Image source, PA Media
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Bring on the English bull terriers - here's one, arriving on day one
Image source, Reuters
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Either of them called Fred? A trio of basset hounds turned up here
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Dogs need a chance to sit down, as well as their owners
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Once arrived, it's time to show off your style in the ring
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Steady now! It does get exciting on day one, as this standard poodle is showing
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Sometimes it can just be easier to get a lift
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Short back and sides? Probably not the best option for an Afghan
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Thousands of dogs have been entered at Crufts this year
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Greyhounds crashing out here at Crufts, it's a busy day for everyone
Image source, Reuters
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After the journey to the NEC, who would not want even just five minutes for a chill?

6 March 2025

Crowds have started to flock to Crufts as the world's most famous dog show opened at the NEC in Birmingham on Thursday.

More than 20,000 dogs from across the world, covering more than 200 breeds, are expected to appear over the four days.

The event, organised by The Kennel Club, culminates on Sunday with the best in show competition.

Last year, an Australian shepherd named Viking, from Solihull, took home the coveted title.

Crufts is celebrating its 75th year and has been at the NEC since 1991.

About 150,000 people are expected to attend this year

As well as the best in breed and best in show titles, it includes events such as flyball, agility, heelwork to music and the Hero Dog Award.

The five-canine shortlist, revealed in February, includes a blood donor dog who gave more than 40 times to other pets and a police dog who was seriously injured in the line of duty.

A West Highland White Terrier on the first day of the Crufts Dog Show at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham. The dog has white fur and its mouth open, appearing to yawn. A person's arm can be seen, wearing a flower-design top. — Image caption,
Easy now, you will set us off yawning - this West Highland terrier looked to be in need of this lie down

A woman pushes a pram containing dogs as they arrive on the first day of the Crufts dog show in Birmingham . The dogs have white fur and dark eyes and sit in a pram which is metal rimmed with black material making the basket. — Image caption,
"They told me we would arrive in style" - and in a way, you have, being pushed in on a pram here

This year's Crufts will also feature displays from West Midlands Police, including its newest puppy recruits.

A new breed, the Polish Hunting Dog, has also been added to the 2025 line-up for the first time.

Paralympian Ellie Simmonds, from Aldridge, has joined the presenting line-up for Channel 4 and More 4 and officially launched the event earlier this week.

Dogs smarten up as crowds flock to Crufts

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