120th anniversary of Crufts

The 120th anniversary of the Crufts Dog show takes place over the next four days (10th - 13th March 2011) at the NEC, Birmingham.

28,000 pedigree and cross breed dogs from 37 countries will take part in the annual dog lovers' event, in a range of competitions including showing, agility, heelwork to music, canine cross country and the dog heroes competition, Friends for Life. More than 200 breeds will also be in the Discover Dogs area for visitors to meet and learn more about.

Caroline Kisko, Communications Director of the Kennel Club, which organises dfs Crufts, said: "We are very excited about the landmark 120th year of dfs Crufts. The event has evolved over the years and is now an essential part of any dog lover's calendar."

"The event is a unique opportunity for dog lovers to come together and celebrate man's best friend. We would like to thank everybody who has supported it over the years and welcome newcomers to this annual celebration of dogs."
 
The event aims to ensure that people learn more about the different types of dog so that when a dog gets a home it is a home for life. There will be a dedicated section for breed rescue volunteers, who work to ensure that unwanted and abandoned dogs find a good home and information about Kennel Club Accredited Breeders, who put the health and welfare of their puppies first and foremost and have the required health tests for their breed carried out.

Sarah Humphreys from Stafford started dog walking a couple of years ago and managed to lose 11 stone...she told Heart it's a great way to help you shift the weight..."Sometimes you have a bad day - but you HAVE to take the dog out so that motivates you ..to exercise"

But it's not just us humans that need to keep fit as Sarah explains: "I think one in four dogs are now overweight because we like to give a dogs a couple of treats but if we exercise them they can have their treats but they can still keep fit and active."

Get Fit With Fido 2011 Challenge in association with Rosemary Conley, is how she did it and they will feature at this year's Crufts.