THOUSANDS of canine companions are set to descend on Ripon Racecourse to take part in one of the UK’s largest dog shows.

The Darlington Dog Show takes place in Ripon from Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20 and gives more than 7,000 dogs from 190 breeds the chance to qualify for the world’s biggest dog show, Crufts.

The Darlington Dog Show Society formerly held the event in parks throughout Darlington, but in 2005 it was moved to the grounds of Newby Hall, near Ripon, due to renovation work in Darlington’s South Park.

To accommodate its growing size, in 2013 it was relocated again to Ripon Racecourse to celebrate its 45th year.

The pedigree dogs taking part will be judged on a number of factors in the ring, including temperament and that they are fit, healthy and happy dogs that are good examples of their breed, as they compete for the ultimate Best in Show prize.

The show is one of the largest gatherings of dogs in the country and will see rare native British breeds competing, such as the Corgi, Skye Terrier and Deerhound, whose numbers are so low they are considered by the Kennel Club to be at risk of disappearing from the UK’s streets and parks.

David Guy, secretary of Darlington Dog Show Society, said: “The show is a huge celebration of man’s best friend and visitors will get to meet lots of wonderful dogs throughout the weekend, find out more about dog showing and the various activities they can get involved in with their own dog, and browse the doggy wares on the trade stands.

“Anyone thinking about getting a pedigree dog can come along and research their favourite breeds, as well as some of the lesser known breeds they may not even have heard of, and take the opportunity to meet the dogs themselves.”

Competition classes are held across the seven pedigree dog groups. Friday, September 18 will see the hound, terrier and utility breeds competing, followed by the working and pastoral breeds on Saturday, September 19 and the gundog and toy breeds on Sunday, September 20.

Visitors can bring dogs to the show with them as spectator dogs for an entry fee of £12. Car parking at the show is £10 and entry is free for those without a dog.

For more information visit http://darlingtondogshowsociety.weebly.com or www.thekennelclub.org.uk.