Every dog has its day - Crufts in pictures through the years

The renowned Crufts dog show is back in Birmingham, welcoming thousands of dogs and their owners from around the world. This year, the event is witnessing an unprecedented number of overseas entries, with nearly 500 dogs from France alone competing for the coveted Best in Show title. Originating in 1891, Crufts has a rich legacy that has evolved over the years, including significant milestones such as moving to the NEC in 1991 and becoming an inclusive platform for both purebreds and crossbreeds. The 2024 show crowned an Australian shepherd named Viking as Best in Show, who outperformed 24,000 dogs, underscoring the event's prestige. Participants and breeders, like Viking's co-owner Melanie Raymond, express their dreams of winning at Crufts, illustrating the emotional investment in this long-standing tradition.

The show not only serves as an exhibition of canine excellence but also fosters a sense of community among dog lovers. As it continues to grow, Crufts remains a significant highlight in the dog showing calendar, attracting over 150,000 visitors each March. The event's commitment to celebrating the bond between dogs and their owners underlines its importance in the cultural landscape of canine companionship.