Freddie Osborne, from Bobbington, Staffs., and his 'best friend', a smooth fox terrier named Penny, will be competing against adults after qualifying last year.

       Heartwarming snaps capture the inseparable bond between Freddie and Penny, with the loyal terrier always by his side since his birth.

       The youngster has has been granted special leave from school to participate at Birmingham's NEC on Thursday (6/3). With eight year old Penny, Freddie is tipped to steal the spotlight on 'Terrier & Hound Day'.

       Speaking of his furry companion, Freddie said: "I love dog shows and I love Penny because she's not just my dog, she's my best friend.

       "I am really looking forward to being with her in the arena.

       "At home she likes to lick you, sit on your lap and cuddles. I like going for walks with her as they are fun and gets you fresh air."

       His passion extends beyond companionship, as he enjoys the competitive aspect: "But I like doing the dog shows and getting prizes and rosettes."

       Freddie's mother, Kimberley, 34, expressed her pride, noting: "He was only two weeks old when he first came to Crufts with us and he has been going ever since."

       She revealed that while Freddie has always been involved with their dogs, this is his debut competition at Crufts. Remarkably, Freddie was just five years old when he and Penny secured their spot at the Birmingham National, acing their very first attempt.

       With friends, family, and fellow terrier enthusiasts rallying behind him, Freddie is set to step into the arena at 1pm to a chorus of support.

       Ahead of his significant day, Kimberly spoke of the invaluable guidance imparted on them by esteemed dog show judges Caroline Friend-Rees and Zena Thorn Andrews: "He was given some great advice by veteran judges and best in class winners this weekend.

       "He was also taught the right etiquette needed to impress the judges at Crufts."

       They've made thorough preparations, using a recent Fox Terrier Show in South Wales as the ideal set-up for the prestigious Crufts event.

       Kimberley was confident: "He has got his game face on and Penny looks better than she ever has before."

       The Osbourne family breed smooth fox terriers under the name Forgevale, together with their partner Margaret Hughes from Ledbury, Herefordshire.

       Kimberley said: "Sadly they are on the native vulnerable breed list and endangered."

       Despite their popularity in the 1930s, smooth fox terriers now face the risk of extinction, she explained.

       "But they are so loving as a breed and really good with children so we really want to highlight that."