More Jack Russell terriers are needed for film work

The Canine Film Academy, in Maidens Green, near Bracknell, Berkshire, is looking for pups with a penchant for the limelight.

The academy offers three levels of classes, and for those dogs with a natural flair, there is even the chance of television and film work.

There are more than 200 tricks your pet can learn, including riding a skateboard, switching on the lights, packing a bag and coughing on command.

Katie Rourke, who runs the academy, says most owners see the whole thing as just a bit of fun, with very few expecting their dogs to see their names in lights.

She said: "What I'm looking for is the right temperament.

"A dog's got to be really confident about being on set.

"It can't be scared of people coming at it fast with cameras and having booms stuck under its nose."

But just like the real Hollywood, film-makers are looking for that something special.

"If you've got something like a Labrador or a Springer Spaniel, we have them coming out of our ears," she said.

"But if you've got a really unusual cross breed that is bright and well-trained then that is a really nice dog to have on set.

"We also need more Jack Russells."