The world’s greatest dog show has become embroiled in controversy after it was revealed online that this year’s ‘best in show’ breeder was previously convicted of animal abuse.
Clumber spaniel, Bruin, beat over 18,000 competitors to take the top prize at the show on Sunday.
His owner, Lee Cox, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a dog in his care in 2001, newspaper The Independent revealed.
Mr Cox was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to the dog, a black cocker spaniel named Adam, following a three-day trial in September 2001.
The court was told that when an inspector visited the Somerset-based kennel, he encountered dogs covered in dirt and a strong stench from dog waste and overflowing drains.
A Royal Kennel Club spokesperson confirmed Mr Cox’s conviction but said it was an “isolated incident 25 years ago”, adding Mr Cox has had an “unblemished record in the 25 years since”.
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Best in show
Bruin, winner of the gun dog group, beat the winners of the six other groups to take the coveted trophy.
It is the first time a Clumber Spaniel has won since 2001.
A four-year-old Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen named Meghan, from Croatia, who won the Hound group, was named reserve dog (second place).
Asked what his character is like, Mr Cox said: “Bit of a diva, a bit like me really, likes his own way, very chilled, but will never, ever let me down. Never lets me down.”
Last year’s title was taken home by a whippet called Miuccia from Italy.
More than 18,600 dogs from across the globe descended on the halls of Birmingham’s NEC for the three-day event.
There were also agility contests, freestyle heelwork to music and flyball to keep the crowds enthralled.
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