Crufts 2019: World's biggest dog show returns to Birmingham NEC

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Image caption, Walkies - Russian toy dogs Pride and Austin take a stroll ahead of the show

The world's biggest dog show, Crufts 2019, has kicked off in Birmingham.

Up to 22,000 dogs are competing for the prestigious title of Best in Show at the NEC.

The annual contest is split over four days into the gundog, working and pastoral, terrier and hound and toy and utility categories.

There are six show rings, including the main arena and also a good citizen dog scheme.

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Image caption, Like they just stepped out of the salon - a standard and toy poodle

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Image caption, Jagger the old English sheepdog gets a groom

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Image caption, An impressive American cocker spaniel competes on the first day

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Image caption, The cast of TOWIE would be proud - poodles arrive at the NEC

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Image caption, Did someone say "treat"? Five Irish setters with their owner

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Image caption, A Spinone Italiano gets some revision in

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Image caption, Pride and Henry serve some serious blue steel

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Image caption, Jan Ralph with her Belgian shepherds named Puzzel and Spi

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Image caption, Milli Gunn, from Essex, with pooch Emma, is eager for her dog to impress during the competition

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Image caption, Striking a pose on Gundog day

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Image caption, Playing it cool - waiting around during the first day of Crufts

Crufts 2019 takes place at the Birmingham NEC between 7 and 10 March.