In pictures: Let sleeping dogs lie

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A weary owner and his dog
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One of the world's largest annual dog shows, Crufts, saw more than 20,000 dogs and their owners competing in a variety of categories. For many it's a long and tiring weekend, and photographer Alison Baskerville focused on those taking a break from the action.

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This is Mimi, a Dogue de Bordeaux, who manages to shut out the noise and relax away from the arena.

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A Saint Bernard sits with his owner, for a bit of peace and quiet on the final day.

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"He's such a lazy dog," says Ray White about Melik, his four-year-old Anatolian sheep dog. "He's a guard dog, so designed to lie around all day, which is perfect for Crufts."

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Many owners come to Crufts for the social side. Large picnics with plenty of food and fizz are set out in front of the kennels. "It's a long day and we need to make the most of it. I just sit here all day and share a drink with whoever passes by," says Phil Mills.

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It is not just the dogs who need to take a break when they can.

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This bearded collie rests between intensive pampering sessions. Many owners will spend a week preparing their dogs for Crufts.

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Some prefer to keep an eye on what is going on. This Dogue de Bordeaux keeps a look out while his next-door neighbour takes a quick nap.

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Space is at a premium. Dogs and owners alike must make the most of their small booths.

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This dog seems to be looking for its owner, or perhaps wondering if there is a patch of grass for a run.