Perfect pooch Otto scooped a top prize at Crufts over the weekend on his handler’s birthday.

Charlotte Westerman, who turned 22 on Sunday (March 12), has been showing dogs since she was 11-years-old and had her latest success with miniature pinscher Otto.

The pair travelled to the world-famous dog show in Birmingham last week and came home with the Best of Breed prize in Otto’s category.

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Charlotte’s proud mum Julie Westerman said: “Charlotte just said it’s a dream come true to get best of breed at Crufts.

The Northern Echo: 15-month-old Otto impressed judge Miss N Mackie.15-month-old Otto impressed judge Miss N Mackie. (Image: JULIE WESTERMAN)

“We were speechless! We never thought she’d get Best of Breed.

“We’re just small breeders, we've only had two litters. We’re just a little family and they’re just our pets.”

Fifteen-month-old Otto, whose show name is Charpin Ottomatic JW, was born a singleton meaning he was the only pup in his litter.

“He’s our little gift,” Julie added.

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“He has achieved so much in his short showing career and it’s a massive achievement for him being the only one in his litter.”

The Northern Echo: Charlotte and Otto after their big win.Charlotte and Otto after their big win. (Image: JULIE WESTERMAN)

The family have seven dogs in total including five miniature pinschers.

Charlotte, from Sadberge, near Darlington, was first bought a puppy aged 11 to help her overcome a stammer and give her a new lease of confidence.

Back in 2014 she first secured a place at Crufts with miniature pinscher Rita and became one of the youngest entrants in the 12 to 16 age group of young handlers.

The Northern Echo: Charlotte Westerman with miniature pinscher Rita in 2013 after finding out they had secured a place at Crufts.Charlotte Westerman with miniature pinscher Rita in 2013 after finding out they had secured a place at Crufts. (Image: CHRIS BOOTH)

She has been showing dogs, including Otto’s mum Anges, ever since.

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The North East was well represented at Crufts with three more pooches scooping gongs.

Sue Mowbray and Luna from Morpeth, Northumberland, won Best of Breed in the Sussex Spaniels category on Thursday (March 9).

Meanwhile Liz Cudlip and Basset Hound Bruce, from County Durham, and John McNalley with Bedlington Terrier Daisy, from Consett, both picked up Best of Breed prizes in their respective categories in Saturday (March 11).