First look at 2024 Crufts sees a stylish poodle complete a magnificent jump as canine contestants prepare for the competition in Birmingham

When the first dogs were photographed for the Crufts 2024 competition in Birmingham, they showed that the standard of dog competition is higher than ever.

Owners and pets from around the world will compete in categories such as agility and obedience starting Thursday, with the world-class Best In Show title being awarded on Sunday.

Crufts, which has been held since 1891 and is currently organized by The Kennel Club, is considered the most prestigious dog competition in the world.

This year’s pampered dogs include Dougal, an adorable 10-year-old Yorkshire Terrier and member of the Good Citizen exhibition team, who looked incredibly cute as he posed among spring daffodils at the photo shoot at the National Exhibition Centre.

Dougal looked small as he posed with two-year-old Irish Wolfhound Killoughery Rockefella, as the pair formed an adorable big and small duo with Dougal managing to stand between their legs.

And Rubén the poodle did a magnificent display jumping over a bar, making an impressive display of agility.

The arrivals are just some of the more than 24,000 dogs heading to Birmingham ahead of this year’s competition.

The show is traditionally divided into four main categories: hunting, working and herding dog, terrier and bloodhound, and utility and toy.

When the competition began in 1891, it was founded by Charles Cruft, a dog biscuit salesman.

Mr. Cruft had had previous experience in dog shows, having participated in the dog section at the 1889 Paris exhibition.

When he brought the show to the UK two years later at Islington’s Albert Hall, it was considered a resounding success.

After receiving 2,500 submissions, the general public’s interest in the contest was clear.

Dog-loving Queen Victoria even entered her dogs in several categories, with the royal dogs winning three awards.

For more than a century, Crufts remains the most prestigious dog competition in the world.

This year’s competition will begin on Thursday, March 7 and conclude on Mother’s Day, Sunday, March 10.