Who's on the animal A-list?

The animal world has more celebrities and scandal than an issue of Heat magazine. We look at some of the most famous – and pampered – pooches in history, and find out exactly why it is a dog’s life.

Celebrity trophy dogs

Forget Jimmy Choos, the must-have accessory for a celebrity these days is more of a mutt-have. They look adorable, coordinate with any outfit and, best of all, won’t sell your secrets to a gossip mag. The most famous is Paris Hilton’s Chihuahua, Tinkerbell. This pint-sized pooch has even inspired a book: The Tinkerbell Hilton Diaries.

2009 Crufts winner

The 2000 ‘mockumentary’ Best in Show may have satirised dog shows, but it doesn’t seemed to have dampened their popularity. At crufts, over 22,000 dogs competed for the top title. After four days of obedience tests, grooming and ‘heelwork to music’, a Sealyham terrier named Charmin was crowned the winner.

Millionaire pet

In 2007, real estate billionaire Leona Helmsley died, leaving a whopping $12m to her Maltese, Trouble. The ‘Queen of Mean’ was somewhat less generous to her family, leaving two grandchildren out of the will entirely. A judge later agreed to award $2m to the dog and give the remaining $10m to Helmsley’s charitable foundation.

Pampered pooches

Florida is home to Chateau Poochie, a luxury hotel where you need four legs to be a guest. Just one night in the Crown Jewel Premiere Suite costs a barking $109. For this, your dog can enjoy a tuck-in service, story time and gourmet food. Extras include blueberry facials, aromatherapy treatments and extreme makeovers – perfect for those hoping to get lucky at the Doggie Disco & Social Lounge..

President Obama’s dog, Bo

The White House has welcomed many ‘First Pets’, including the Clintons’ cat Socks and Roosevelt’s Scottish Terrier Fala. More recently President Obama and his family have unveiled their new dog Bo at the White House and shown him around the grounds. The 'First Dog' is a six-month-old Portuguese water dog who made his debut in April. Make sure your pooch is looked after in the event of an accident or illness with a suitable insurance policy - Direct Line Pet Insurance

Dog grooming - For less bank-breaking pampering, read our dog grooming tips and all about alternative health for pets.