In pictures: Crufts dog show kicks off in England
22,000 dogs have descended on Birmingham, England for the world's biggest dog show, where the ultimate title of 'Crufts Best in Show' will be decided. The competition, which runs from March 6 - 9, has been called a 'celebration of all dogs,' featuring 200 pedigree breeds.
A Mastiff sits on a Union Flag rug during the first day of the Crufts dog show in Birmingham, central England March 6, 2014.DARREN STAPLES/Reuters
A Great Dane jumps up at its handler as it is judged during the first day of the Crufts dog show in England.DARREN STAPLES/Reuters
A Dogue de Bordeaux awaits its class during the first day of the Crufts dog show in Birmingham, central England March 6, 2014.DARREN STAPLES/Reuters
A woman shows a Great Dane during the first day of the Crufts dog show in Birmingham, central England March 6, 2014.DARREN STAPLES/Reuters
A Mastiff sits on a Union Flag rug during the first day of the Crufts dog show in Birmingham, central England March 6, 2014.DARREN STAPLES/Reuters
New Foundland dogs sit and await their class during the first day of the Crufts dog show in Birmingham, central England March 6, 2014.DARREN STAPLES/Reuters
A Dogue de Bordeaux awaits its class during the first day of the Crufts dog show in Birmingham, central England March 6, 2014.DARREN STAPLES/Reuters
A woman shows a Great Dane during the first day of the Crufts dog show in Birmingham, central England March 6, 2014.DARREN STAPLES/Reuters
A woman sits with a Great Dane during the first day of the Crufts dog show in Birmingham, central England March 6, 2014.DARREN STAPLES/Reuters