In pictures: Crufts 2009

More than 22,000 dogs are at this year's Crufts dog show. Some owners are hoping to win the coveted best in show award. It has gone ahead despite losing BBC TV coverage and sponsorship.

Diva belongs to Kim Parris and is a gundog, a Bracco Italiano. The breed has only been in the UK since the 1980s, and even today there are fewer than 300 registered with the Kennel Club.

Spice, Sammy and Billy, three pomeranians at the show, seem to like lots of attention and three veterinary students are on hand to oblige. The pomerainian is popular with many celebrities today.

There are plenty of trade stands in the halls at the NEC in Birmingham, some with ways to keep your dog healthy...

... while others offer toys, for dogs and owners alike.

Some stands provide a technological solution to keeping your dog trim and healthy.

There are more than 187 breeds on show and their owners take great care to prepare their dogs for the big moment.

For Liz Dunhill and her wheaten terrier, Fantasa Blonde Chaos, the hard work was worthwhile as they had just won their class.

A Bedlington terrier and its owner wait in the ring having just paraded in front of the judges.

Weaving amongst the many visitors to the show Indi and his owner, Julie Graham, await their turn in the ring. Despite it being Indi's first Crufts, he looks to be taking it in his stride.

Photographs and text by Phil Coomes.

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