Hip hounds, dashing dogs and perfect puppies queued boisterously at a Pitsea pet shop for a professional photo session.

Each snapshot launched a fresh chorus of barking from those straining at the leash to be next.

Smile - photographer Fred Curtis gets Billy, a Jack Russell owned by Lisa Empson of Vange, to pose for the camera Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

The dogs were bidding for the honours in a hotly fought contest to find the best-looking pooch, with prizes including a sumptuous supply of Hills dog food, up to £100 worth of vouchers and a copy of the photo.

The competition was staged at the Pets at Home store, Old Retail Park, High Street, Pitsea, where manager Ann Belcher warned that the cutest did not always turn out to be top dog.

The results will be announced in three weeks.

Published Monday January 12, 2004

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