An Australian shepherd named Viking has been crowned Best in Show at the 2024 Crufts dog competition in Birmingham, England. The three-year-old canine — co-owned by Melanie Raymand, John Shaw and Kerry Kirtley — beat more than 19,000 other dogs from around the world to claim the show’s most coveted title. “Pinch me! This is everyone’s dream. Crufts is the competition we all want to win!” Ms Raymand, who was Viking’s handler at the show, said.

“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.” Crufts show manager Helen Kerfoot congratulated the pair for ending this year’s competition “on a real high”. “It has been fantastic to watch their strong relationship together in the ring, and they are very deserving winners,” she said.

Winner of Best in Show, the Australian Shepherd, "Viking" poses for photographs at the trophy presentation for the Best in Show event at the Crufts dog show at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, central England.--AFP photos

The Jack Russell, "Zen" with handler Hiroshi Tsuyuki poses for photographs at the trophy presentation after coming runner-up in the Best in Show event.

Handler Melanie Raymond reacts as the Australian Shepherd, "Viking" was announced the winner of the Best in Show event.

An Afghan hound is groomed before being judged.

People stand with Ibizan Hounds as they wait to be judged.

The Leonberger, "Neville" competes in the ring during the Best in Show event.

A woman handles her three Rough Collie dogs.

A Great Dane chews it's soft toy preparing for the Working and Pastoral class competition.

Winner of Best in Show, the Australian Shepherd, "Viking" poses for photographs at the trophy presentation for the Best in Show event.

A Jack Russell terrier named Zen, from Japan, was named the Reserve Best in Show. The other five finalists were: Elton, a French bulldog; Raffa, a papillon; Hendricks, a weimaraner; Neville, a Leonberger; and Getme, a grand basset griffon vendeen. “All of the dogs and their owners and handlers should be incredibly proud to have taken part in such a momentous final,” Ms Kerfoot said. “It really is an incredible achievement, and one we are sure they’ll treasure for years to come.”