LET'S hear a round of a-paws for this year's Dorset Echo’s Pet Idol Winner.

Cooper the charming cockapoo is this year’s winner of our annual Pet Idol competition, which saw a record number of entries this year.

The 15-month-old pooch from Chickerell stole the hearts of voters – crowning him the top-dog.

Cooper took first place amongst hundreds of other entries ranging from other canine companions, furry friends, colourful birds and a vast array of species alike, all entered into the competition.

Larissa Prowse, Cooper’s proud owner, said: “He is very loving and he has also got a very cheeky side. I suffer with disabilities and he always knows when you need him.”

This is the first competition that Larissa has entered Cooper in, so the win came as a bit of a surprise, and she is delighted for her four-legged friend.

Readers voted for their favourite pet from a line-up of animals vying for the title.

They were all published in our special 24 page supplement on Thursday, June 24, with a picture of each animal, giving them and their owners their much deserved five minutes of fame.

Some of Cooper’s favourite hobbies include playing with his beloved ball as well as taking any opportunity to take a paddle in the water.

Larissa said: “He’s not so happy that he hasn’t been able to go out, and in the water as much in the heat.”

Like many Weymouth locals and tourists alike, Cooper is also a big fan of a Rossi’s ice cream.

The playful pup has a brother called Arthur who lives nearby that he adores playing with, but Arthur is not the only furry friend that Cooper enjoys playing with, he also lives alongside two other fluffy friends.

Larrissa added: “He lives alongside two guinea pigs that he just lays near and likes to lick.”