IT was a case of every dog having its day for Weimaraner Cain as he secured a prestigious prize at Crufts 2018 alongside his owner Carol Ruddy.

Four-year-old Cain put his best paw forward at Birmingham’s NEC, suitably impressing judges to scoop the Best of Breed award on Sunday.

That made it a Crufts to remember for his 48-year-old owner Carol, of Dolphinton, who joined thousands of other canine lovers in descending on the West Midlands for 127th edition of the world’s largest dog show.

An estimated 22,000 pooches visited the NEC during the four-day event, with a record 3,623 four-legged-friends from 49 countries vying for the chance to win the coveted Best in Show.

Visitors learnt about 200 different breeds at the Discover Dogs zone, cross-breeds competed for the Scruffts crown and the Friends for Life event reminded people about the inspiring stories that show dogs at their absolute best. And for dog groomer Carol, there was no wiping the smile off her face as her beloved Cain enjoyed his moment in the spotlight.

“It’s amazing,” said Carol, who attends Wilma Reid Ringcraft dog training school. “It was really nerve-racking! He’s got a lovely temperament, but he does like to play the fool.

“I’ve had the breed for 30 years. You just fall in love with them. They are a nice dog to live with.”