The
affenpinscher “Banana Joe” nabbed the top prize at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Feb. 12 in New York City. Now more than 25,000 top dogs, including 2,131 from 41 other countries, are expected to put their paws in the ring duringÂ
Crufts, one of the largest dog shows in the world, which kicked off in Birmingham, England yesterday. We’ve fetched the best pictures from day one of the four-day event, which dates back to 1891. So sit, stay, and check out these chic canines.
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An owner arrives with her Afghan Hound wearing a waterproof suit.

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A man shakes the paw of a Foxhound.
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An Afghan Hound is groomed.
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Owners prepare to show their dogs.
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The four-day show features over 25,000 dogs, with competitors traveling from 41 countries to take part.
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A handler wearing a kilt shows his Irish Wolfhound.
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A man gives his Afghan Hound a drink.

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A Dandie Dinmont Terrier awaits judging.
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Owners watch dogs being shown.
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Caitlin, aged 9, sleeps on her Irish Wolfhound.
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Bailey Bear, a Golden Labradoodle, sits in front of a picture of a cat.