Dogs catch some waves in surfing contest

While I can get my dog to do a few neat little tricks here and there, I've got a long way to go before I can match what some owners in the US have taught their pooches.

The brave canines have been learning how to surf and have become so good at the sport that they have been competing in the seventh annual Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf Dog Competition.

More than 50 mutts headed to the San Diego shore to show off their skills on the board, with hundreds of locals checking out the talent on display.

Winners of the contest are required to portray high levels of confidence when out on the water, as well as being able to ride long waves and display a sound fashion sense.

Teevan McManus, owner of Coronado Surfing Academy, explained the judges like four-legged friends with an extra touch of flair, adding: "Maybe some sunglasses, whatever it might be and then we're always looking for something that stands out."

Posted by Mark Wilkins