PINGU looks very pleased with himself -- and he has every reason to be yappy -- for the Tibetan terrier from Blackpool is top of the pups!

Owned by Mike Gadsby, Elaine Macdonald and Gavin Roberston from Marton, Pingu is one of 31 finalists in the national BETA Dog World "Pup of the Year" competition.

Pingu took his place on the short-list after winning first prize at the Richmond Championship Dog Show in September, earning him a "Pup of the Year" regional title.

A spokesman for Friskies (UK) Ltd, joint organisers of the competition with BETA dry dog food makers and Dog World newspaper, said: "If Pingu wins, he will be crowned Pup of the Year and can look forward to a busy and exciting showing career."

In past years finalists from this major event have progressed to the Grand Final at Crufts and this year was no exception as two of the finalists, including the overall Crufts winner, were former Pup of the Year regional winners.