Nearly 5,000 dogs and their owners are set to descend on Kelso next week for the annual Border Union Agricultural Society Championship Dog Show.
Competitors are travelling from as far afield as mainland Europe as well as all over Britain and Ireland for the Springwood Park event on the June 15-16 weekend.
Almost 700 toy dogs, 170 golden retrievers, more than 100 dachshunds and boxers, assorted Chihuahuas, great Danes and many other rarely seen breeds will be competing over the two days for the chance to win the coveted Best in Show ticket.
During the event, more than 100 different breeds will compete, starting with the hound, terrier and gundog groups on Saturday at 9am.
Borders breeds are well represented with 100 Border terriers entered on Saturday and 85 Border collies expected on Sunday.
Show organiser Marjory Macgregor said: “And as well as household name breeds, such as whippets, beagles and spaniels, there is also a chance to see some of the rarest breeds in the country in the rare breed classes, including Ibizan hounds and Spanish water spaniels on Saturday, and Greenland dogs and Tibetan mastiffs appearing on Sunday.”
The show is in its 38th year and is one of only three championship shows in Scotland where a win in certain classes will allow the proud owner and dog a chance to compete at Crufts next year.
Judging of the working, pastoral, utility and toy groups takes place on Sunday, again from 9am, with the grand finale of Best in Show being staged at around 5pm on Sunday.
Marjory Macgregor said: “Almost 200 caravans take up residence at Springwood from the Monday prior to the show, as Kelso hospitality is legendary amongst exhibitors.”
More than 50 trade stands with a wide range of dog foods, dog books, dog coats, dog-grooming products, as well as special dog baths and even herbal remedies for dogs are expected.
Marjory added: “The show promises to be an interesting and entertaining weekend for all.”
Admission is £5 and £3 and parking is free. Only dogs entered in the show will be admitted.