Can Hollywood's top dogs really act?

nimals have been stealing scenes since movies began - but can Hollywood's top dogs really act or is it all down to clever training?

The Artist is being tipped to sweep the board at this year's Oscars - but there will be no Academy Award for one of the silent film's biggest stars.

In fact, he will be lucky to get a pat on the head and a consoling bone to chew on.

Uggie is a nine-year-old Jack Russell terrier - and the Academy is famously sniffy when it comes to handing out prizes to animals.

Lassie, Cheetah and Rin Tin Tin may have been among the biggest stars of their day - but not one of them ever gripped the famous gold statuette in their jaws.