Australian Shepherd Dog Wins Crufts 2006

Crufts was established in 1891 and now runs over four days every March. More than 22,200 dogs from 32 countries took part in this year’s Crufts, which is now the world’s largest dog show.

"It’s the best moment in my life. I’m so proud of him," said Nancy Resetar, owner of 5-year-old Chance, from Royal Oaks, California. Nancy said Chance was the first Australian Shepherd she had shown.

Winning handler Larry Fenner said: "I am overwhelmed. The greatest moment of my life was the birth of my daughter, this is second best. I did not expect it."

Judge Brenda Banbury said: "We had excellent dogs sent through. Some moved very well, others were not quite so settled, but all were excellent dogs."

The reserve Best in Show dog, in second place, was wire fox terrier El-Rays Snowtaire Iceni Payback. The dog, known as Payback, is owned by Barbara Becker and Phil Davies, of Upper Killay, Swansea. The breeds of the seven group winners were: working group – Bouvier des Flandres; pastoral group – Australian Shepherd; hound group – Norwegian Elkhound; utility group – Poodle (miniature); toy group – Pomeranian; gundog – Welsh Springer Spaniel and Terrier group – Fox Terrier. Last year’s best-in-show champion was a six-year-old Norfolk Terrier called Cracknor Cause Celebre, or Coco.