It’s that time of year when the air is filled with the sounds and smells of clipping, cutting, hairspray, tension and other unmentionables. That goes for both the dogs and their owners who preen and prune themselves equally for their big show day of the year. Competition is intense, dog envy is abound.
This is the third year I’ve been assigned this job. Maybe because the picture desk knows I’m allergic to dogs…maybe because deep down I actually enjoy them and they can be quite good fun and picture rich…Release the hounds….!!

Justin a Lhasa Apso (3) takes his view on the World. (JEP)

Delphi the English Spaniel getting her toe hair cut. Detail is everything.

Onyx (8) a Pekingese is fluffed up by Pat Dale. (JEP)

Final preparations for the Toy Poodle. (JEP)

Oliver an English Spaniel having his tail hair cut perfectly straight by Lynn Ozane. (JEP)

Onyx (8) a Pekingese rests inbetween showing.

Monkey the Whippet stands on the shoulders of Rachel le Masurier to check out the competition. (JEP)

Shiloh the Bulldog psyches himself up in wings before performing. (JEP)

A wire haired Dachshund is judged by Mrs Cartledge with owner Lisa Goodall. (JEP)

Marie-Claire Hannigan showing an Afghan Hound.