What’s so special about dogs? We ask dog lovers at Crufts 2023 at the NEC

Crufts has finally started here at the NEC. The largest show of it’s kind in the world, thousands of dog lovers are set to attend over the next few days. I’m here today to find out what makes dogs such special animals and what they’re looking forward to this year?

Britain is known to be a nation of dog lovers, and the presence of Crufts here shows how devoted many of us are to our furry friends. So what makes this event so great to many and what are they looking forward to over the next few days?

Kay says: “Well, they’re just great companions. They like to please you. They’re an excuse for getting out every day to exercise them. I think they’re good for your mental health because they can relax you if you’re feeling uptight about anything, they just don’t judge you.”

Anthony says: “It sort of improves your health, your mental health. And also it introduces you to other dog walkers, you know, you can make friends that way. You socialise that way.

“And it just stems from there. You can meet people, to show people. You might buy another puppy and try a bit of showing. And it’s all healthy. You’re not in the pub drinking. You’re doing all healthy stuff, you know, which makes me feel good.”

Kay says: “Well, Crufts is always a bit of an unknown quantity. If you’re entering your dog to the competition. I think it’s a show where any dog can win. We’re just showing a veteran this year.

“She turned nine yesterday so we have no expectation of anything at all. But again, it’s just nice to meet up with people that have the same breed and chat about the dogs and various things that are going on. We’re not here really for the shopping. But if you’re into shopping, you can buy virtually anything you want.”