More than 16,500 dogs of all breeds and sizes descended upon Madrid on Wednesday as the city hosted the largest global event for all things canine.

The World Dog Show at the IFEMA conference center will see more than 250 different breeds compete in a variety of events designed to test everything from obedience to agility.

As well as the competition, the three-day event is also a huge trade fair for Spain's rapidly growing pet care sector.

Spaniards love spending money on their pets, especially their dogs. The industry has expanded in recent years and is now worth an estimated $42 billion a year.

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Laboklin is a veterinary diagnostic laboratory that focuses in the field of genetic testing for dogs. They specialize in DNA profiling, hereditary diseases and even coat colour.

This service is often used by owners of pedigree pets, who want to assess the health of their animal.

Hubert Bauer, a Genetic Analyst at Laboklin, told CGTN Europe that the growth of the pet care industry had been mirrored by the success of his company.

"We started in Bad Kenissinin (in Germany), with just a couple of veterinarians working. Over 25 years it has been a story of success, growing up to 500 employees by now," said Bauer.

Pets and the pandemic

The relationship between Spaniards and their pets became even closer during the pandemic. Walking your dog was one of the few outdoor activities permitted when lockdown restrictions were in place.

Also, pets offered much needed comfort and companionship to many people who found themselves isolated during the COVID-19 outbreak.

"Having a dog during the pandemic and strict lockdown was very important. They helped us to overcome those difficult moments when we were isolated at home. Dogs have been great companions to keeping us busy at home," said one Italian dog owner who had brought his pet over to take part in the competition.

One female Spanish dog owner struggled to contain her emotions as she told CGTN Europe how her dog helped her through the pandemic.

"Dogs are fundamental. I'm going through a lot right now, dealing with depression, and if it wasn't for my dog. I could have been in hospital by now. He has really cheered me up."

Currently, there are 9.3 million dogs registered in Spain, which means there are more homes in this country with pets than with children.

It is safe to say Spain's love affair with man's best friend is thriving.