Six-year-old boy wins first place at Crufts as youngest ever handler

A six-year-old has landed a first place at Crufts – with a dog that’s older than him – becoming the show’s youngest dog-handler.

Freddie Osborne took top spot in his category at the world-famous dog show with his smooth fox terrier Penny, 8, who he called his ‘best friend’.

The pair were cheered on by friends and family as he took to the ring at Birmingham’s NEC – coming first in the veteran bitch category, meaning he will go on to compete in a challenge against five other dogs

Freddie was even granted special permission to miss a day of school, celebrating with waffles and ice cream after his win.

He said: ‘I love dog shows and I love Penny because she’s not just my dog, she’s my best friend.

‘At home she likes to lick you, sit on your lap and cuddle. I like going for walks with her as they are fun and get you fresh air. But I like doing the dog shows and getting prizes and rosettes.’

Dad James Osborne, 42, of Bobbington, Staffordshire, said: ‘He took it all completely in his stride and we’re very proud of him.

‘When I first went on to the green carpet as an adult, it was daunting enough as everyone’s eyes are on you and your dog. But he just seemed a natural out there and nothing seemed to phase him. He just really enjoys being out there with his dog.

‘Penny is a show dog, but also a pet dog and his best friend, which always helps. As a family, it is just a great day out doing the thing we love. There’s no pressure on him, we just want him to have fun and it’s an amazing experience for him.’

Mum Kimberley, 34, added: ‘He was only two weeks old when he first came to Crufts with us and he has been going ever since.

‘He’s always helped us with our dogs but this will be the first time he has competed there.’

Freddie was just five when he and Penny qualified for Crufts at the Birmingham National and it was on his first time of asking.

The Osbourne family breed smooth fox terriers under the kennel name Forgevale.

Mum Kimberly said: ‘Sadly they are on the native vulnerable breed list and endangered. In the 1930s smooth fox terriers were classed as one of the most popular dogs but now they are endangered.

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

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