SOLIHULL top dog, Viking, was crowned Best in Show at Crufts 2024.
The Australian Shepherd, which won the Pastoral Group title, took out the show’s top honour on the fourth and final day at the NEC.
In a packed Resorts World Arena at the Birmingham NEC, Viking, who is three-years-old, and co-owned by Melanie Raymond, John Shaw and Kerry Kirtley, was cheered on as they were chosen by top judge, Ann Ingram.
The famous Best in Show trophy was presented to Viking, the second Australian Shepherd to win the Best in Show title.
Delighted handler and co-owner Melanie, said: “Pinch me! This is everyone’s dream. Crufts is the one we all want to win!
“My grandma started showing with Beagles and I feel like I’ve accomplished something she never managed – I’m hoping she is looking down on me.”
The Reserve Best in Show was won by the Jack Russell Terrier, Zen, co-owned by Hiroshi Tsuyuki and Kao Miichi, from Japan.
Viking’s win was captured live on Channel 4 in a programme hosted by Clare Balding, and watched online by millions of dog lovers.
Helen Kerfoot, Crufts show manager, said: “Tonight’s final was a fitting end for another fantastic year at Crufts.
“Congratulations to Viking who saw this year’s competition end on a real high, taking the prestigious Best in Show award alongside his handler, Melanie. It has been fantastic to watch their strong relationship together in the ring, and they are very deserving winners.
“All of the dogs and their owners and handlers should be incredibly proud to have taken part in such a momentous final – it really is an incredible achievement, and one we are sure they’ll treasure for years to come.”
Over 19,000 dogs from around the world competed at the Birmingham NEC over four days for just seven places in the Crufts 2024 Best in Show final.
The other six finalists were: Elton, a French Bulldog; Raffa, a Papillon; Hendricks, a Weimaraner; Neville, a Leonberger; Zen, a Jack Russell Terrier and Getme, a Basset Griffon Vendeen (Grand).
Helen added: “Crufts is adored by dog lovers from all over the world, and we have been delighted to welcome so many competitors from all over the world this year, and celebrate the unique bond between these much-loved dogs and their owners, across a range of competitions and activities.
“Thank you to everyone involved for making the event what it is today, and congratulations again to Viking and Melanie, our Best in Show 2024.”
