AN 11-year-old husky has been given a huge pat on the back from his owner after being crowned the top dog in a fun pet extravaganza.

Johann won the dog show's veteran category at the Pets on the Hill event in Kelsall, near Chester, at the weekend.

Proud owner Donna Whitehead, from Atherton, who has had Johann since he was 14 weeks old, said: “It is a real compliment to have someone else reward your dog for being in such good condition for their age. I am really pleased.

“He is a real fun loving type of dog and so something like this is great for him.

"He likes to be busy and out and about doing something. He is also very loving and is a real people dog, which I think helped him along in the ring with the judge.”

The dogs were judged on their behaved, temperament and how healthy they are for their age.

David Crane, spokesman for event organisers Willows Veterinary Group, said: “Congratulations to Donna and Johann, who were the worthy winners of the veteran class."

Johann's dog show success capped off a memorable weekend for Donna, with her and her 26-year-old thoroughbred mare Jess also securing a podium finish.

The 35-year-old, who competes in dressage competitions with Jess, said: “It has been a good weekend because Jess and I had a third in our dressage class at another event the previous day.

"A first for Johann is the icing on the cake.”