A Croydon dog has become an unlikely TV star after being spotted by talent scouts on a morning walk.

Shadow, a four-year-old boxer, collared two canine acting contracts in as many months despite having no previous 'acting' experience.

His first small-screen role saw him play a thirsty pooch who takes off in pursuit of a drink in a kitchen towel advert.

The floppy-eared thespian's performance led to him securing a role any dog would drool over - in an ad for premium pet food - this month.

Shadow's owner Alan Paterson, 47, said: "I was walking Shadow when a lady from an advertising agency approached me and said that he would be the perfect dog for a new TV commercial.

"He has never 'performed' before but took to the training really well."

The adverts - for Thirst Pockets and Green Dog Food - each bagged Mr Paterson and earned Shadow year's supply of dog food.

Mr Paterson, the lead instructor at a South Croydon Kung-Fu school, said: "I recorded the ad and Shadow now barks every time he sees himself on the telly."

Has your pet got a special talent? Email chris.baynes@london.newsquest.co.uk or call 0208 722 6351 to tell us about it.