Every dog which competes at Crufts is a pedigree dog registered with the Kennel Club and has previously qualified at a championship show.

Around 200 experienced judges will be at the show. When making their decisions, the judges look for the dog closest to its breed standard - a written description of the ideal dog of that breed.

The breed standards were reviewed by the Kennel Club in 1988 to protect the ways in which dogs are bred.

Brian Leonard from the Kennel Club said: "Before we reviewed standards, it was accepted that in the case of a bull dog for example - the bigger the head the better.

"Now standards say a bull dog's head must be balanced with the body. The review was controversial because dog lovers are conservative, but it was important to review them so that exaggerations of features no longer take place."

Watch out for that happy dog

Mr Leonard said judges will also be looking at the quality of a dog's coat, movement and temperament when making their considerations.

Parading on the dogwalk

"Personality plays a very big part, it expresses the characteristics and temperament of a dog. Unless a dog enjoys itself it won't show in the final six. The dog of the day will be the one who enjoys itself, it will be the one saying 'hey look at me!'

"If the owner is uptight, that feeling will be communicated to the dog because animals pick up vibes. Owners have to be well in command to stop their dogs from becoming upset, but if people are too competitive that will probably put a strain on the dog. What we like to see is a dog who really enjoys the day."

Beauty, pedigree and personality count

A matter of class

There are several classes for each breed. Dogs and bitches are judged together for the Best of Breed Group. The Best of Breed winners then compete for the titles Best in Group. Each Breed belongs to one of six groups: Terrier, Hound, Toy, Utility, Gundog and Working. The six group winners then return on the last day to compete for the title Best in Show.

Encompassing everything that dog owners see as positive about dogs, the show also offers visitors the chance to sample breed judging, displays and competitions.

One particular area, Discover Dogs, highlights good and responsible dog ownership with different breeds of dog. Experienced owners and breeders provide advice to dog lovers.

Mr Leonard said that "every day we have around 160 breeds with experts in an area called Discover Dogs where people can go to see whether a certain breed of dog will suit their lifestyle .... highlighting three important points: choice, care and training."
 

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