[bbfan1991]

The sea must have been a bit ruff for these dogs to catch some waves at the weekend - they were taking part in the annual Loews dog surfing contest in California to raise money for animal charities.



The competition draws in competitors from all corners of the United States and sees the dogs go head to head in three categories, small dogs, large dogs and tandem dogs.

The pooches have two chances to impress in separate ten minute heats and are scored on their two best surfs.

But judges are not only looking for skills on the waves, they're also looking at the mutt's fashion sense.



'So what we're looking for could be length of ride, maybe that little bit of extra flair that a dog has, from the way they're dressed up to, maybe some sunglasses, whatever it might be, and then we're always looking for something that stands out,' said Teevan McManus, a judge at the contest.

This year more than 50 dogs took part in the competition with the triumphant pets winning a holiday package for their owners and snacks for themselves.

The victors in the small dog category were defending champions Michael Uy and his Australian Kelpie, Abbie Girl.



'You know actually this year I was injured so, a little bit of an underdog coming in but we do this because we love surfing together in the water,' said Mr Uy.

'So, it's kind of amazing how all of this has come about, we are very honoured.

The event was in benefit of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and all profits will be donated to the charity.