A DOG trainer says she won’t be paws-ing to showcase her talent at Crufts again after winning two rosettes on her first appearance at the renowned canine championship.

Karen Boyce from Froncysyllte volunteered a favour for a friend by showing pedigree Glen of Immal terrier Poppy at Birmingham’s NEC earlier this month.

Despite never having competed at an event which attracts the very best of pedigree dogs from all over the world, her skills handling dogs of all breeds, sizes and temperaments shone through as she and Poppy walked their way to a first placing in the Open Bitch class for her pedigree and the Best Bitch category

Karen, who runs Beastly Thoughts Professional Dog Services and the ‘Awesome, Pawsome’ pet shop in her home village, says Poppy’s superb temperament was the key to their success in the breed rings.

“For her to get Best Bitch was awesome. When you consider that there are 20,000 dogs exhibiting at Crufts and only around 120 rosettes awarded across the championships then for Poppy to win two rosettes is a great achievement,” said Karen.

“I do about three shows a year but this was a first time at Crufts so I was delighted.”

Developing pedigree dogs capable of competing at Crufts is a time-consuming business and involves many hours of grooming to produce the perfect coat as well as behavioural training.

Registered at the Kennel Club under the almost-regal moniker of CH Sigrid Helga at Pant Cottage, three-year-old Poppy is one of two Glen of Immal terriers owned by Dr Jane Alstead from Dudleston Heath near Ellesmere, Shropshire.

Glen of Immals were bred originally bred for otter and badger hunting, but Poppy it seems is seeking out glory in the ring.

“She has a lovely temperament and she is already classed as a champion as she has won numerous awards in a very short time. At Crufts it was brilliant to have her gain more,” said Karen.

“We just missed out getting on TV in the final rounds.”