Crufts has modernised and expanded in preparation for its 125th anniversary, show organisers have said.

The Kennel Club, which presents the annual event, says this year will be “bigger and better than ever” and more than “just a dog show”.

And bidding for glory at the NEC in Birmingham will be at least 20 dogs from Huddersfield.

Their owners have been accepted into what is regarded as the world’s Number One dog show.

And they will be there with their Cairn Terriers, Estrela Mountain dogs, Basset Hounds, Boston terrier and Manchester Terrier, hoping to be named Best of Breed or even Supreme Champion.

The show opens today and runs until Sunday.

Watch timelapse video of Crufts arena being built

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Kennel Club secretary Caroline Kisko said: “It is a very different event from just a dog show so we have really gone out to make sure you can come and choose the right dog here.

“You can train it properly; you can learn how to care for it and you can become a responsible owner.”

Calling it “the greatest dog show in the world”, Ms Kisko revealed that Crufts was venturing into social media, featuring celebrity dogs and setting up its own accounts.

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“It’s a question of modernising really. This year we have Instagram, we have dogs that are on Instagram and they are here promoting the show, as well as taking part in various displays,” she said.

Nearly 22,000 dogs from 47 countries will compete in breed-judging, gamekeepers’ classes and the obedience and agility championships at the event.

A Pomeranian named Pepper during day one of Crufts 2016 at the NEC, Birmingham.

When can I watch Crufts on TV?

Crufts is streamed live on YouTube on the official Crufts channel while the competition is ongoing.

It will also be broadcast on Channel 4 and More4.

You can watch on Channel 4

Friday: 7.30pm - 9pm

Saturday: 7pm-9pm

Sunday: 7pm-9pm

And the show will also be available to watch on More4 on Thursday from 6.30pm to 9pm, and Friday 6.30pm to 7.30pm.