Crufts 2026: Dogs arrive for world famous show

The world's most famous dog show has kicked off and droves of pooches have begun to arrive.

More than 18,600 canines from across the globe will strut their paws around the halls of Birmingham's NEC over the next three days, with owners hoping to win the ultimate title of Best in Show at Crufts.

As well as the dogs being judged in their various categories - such as working, pastoral and terrier - competitions will be held to entertain the audience.

The competition runs until Sunday, with the Best in Show winner due to be crowned that evening.

Audiences have the chance to watch agility contests, freestyle heelwork to music and flyball - head-to-head relay races between dog teams - and a display by the West Midlands Police Dog team, organisers have said.

Last year for the first time, a dog from Italy won best in show.

Miuccia, a four-year-old whippet from Venice, came out top among more than 18,000 dogs from around the world to take the top award.

For this year's show, doors open each day from 08:15 GMT and close at 18:30 until Saturday, before an 18:00 finish, on Sunday.

Events last until 20:05 each day, except on Sunday when the best in show winner will be announced from 20:30.

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