MORE than 7,000 dogs of all shapes and sizes are expected to descend on Malvern next month for one of the biggest shows of its kind in the UK.

The Three Counties Championship Dog Show will see more than 200 breeds and their owners from all over the UK and beyond compete in a bid to qualify for the world’s biggest dog show, Crufts, in Birmingham next March.

The show will see rare British and Irish breeds competing, such as the smooth fox terrier, deerhound, Lancashire heeler, Welsh terrier, mastiff, Cardigan corgi, field spaniel, Irish red and white setter and Manchester terrier.

Alongside them will be some of the more well-known breeds such as the Staffordshire bull terrier, border collie, Irish setter, whippet, labrador retriever, boxer, poodle, dachshund and pug.

The show is perfect for families researching the right breed of dog for them, and visitors will be able to meet the dogs themselves as well as talk to experts in each breed about finding a good breeder, what to expect from the breed, and training and care requirements.

Show secretary Jackie Lane said: “We are very proud that our event is among the largest dog shows held in the UK. With the beautiful Malvern Hills as a backdrop, the show brings thousands of dog lovers to the area each year and we are expecting this year’s show to be bigger and better than ever.

“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 many products on the trade stands."

The show is at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern Wells, on Thursday-Sunday, June 8-11.