Hounds from around the world donned their waterproofs and braved the British weather for the start of the annual Crufts dog show on Thursday.
More than 25,000 animals are expected to turn out for the event at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre, which this year took on a particularly international flavour.
A record 2,131 dogs from 41 overseas countries are taking part, with Hong Kong, India, Indonesia and Malaysia fielding entrants for the first time.
Britain’s first signs of spring faded as the show kicked off under gloomy skies, prompting perfectly-groomed pooches to arrive wrapped up in rain coats, blankets and winter boots.
The Kennel Club estimates around 145,000 people will visit the four-day show which includes contests to assess agility, heelwork and obedience.
Organisers said a new category for imported breeds had attracted 145 dogs from across the globe across 13 breeds not previously seen at the event, including the Korean Jindo, Mexican Hairless, and Slovakian Rough Haired Pointer.
Kennel Club secretary Caroline Kisko said: “The fact that dog owners continue to come in their thousands to celebrate their dogs on the world’s most famous dog stage is testament to what a special place Crufts holds in the hearts of dog lovers throughout the world.”
The show will culminate on Sunday with the awarding of the prestigious Best in Show title.
Five special dogs will also compete for the public vote in the Friends For Life competition, which celebrates dogs’ bravery and devotion to their owners.
Top dogs from around the world turn out at Crufts
