Crufts 2016: 22,000 pedigree dogs compete in world's largest show of its kind

Dogs from all over the world gather to compete in Birmingham

Crufts dog show 2016 is underway, with this year’s annual dog show taking place at Birmingham NEC over four days.

The world’s largest dog show is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, having begun in 1881 in in Islington, north London

Owners groom their terrier on the first day of the show (Getty)

Around 22,000 dogs are taking part. Dogs of a range of breeds can compete in events such as agility competitions, a special ‘vulnerable breeds’ competition and freestyle ‘heelwork to music’ – more commonly known as ‘doggie dancing’, as seen on Britain’s Got Talent.

Dogs and owners from all over the world have come to take part, with some travelling all the way from Australia, the USA and Japan.

The Kennel Club Medium Novice Cup Grand Final winner Barney, with his owner Alicia Hancock (OnEdition)

Crufts Chairman Gerald King said: “We feel honoured to welcome dogs from such a wide variety of breeds, representing all corners of the globe.

“The fact that people travel far and wide to enter this prestigious event is testament to the place it continues to hold in people’s hearts and we intend to keep going from strength to strength.”