A Pekingese dog is making a stir in the art world with his unique brand of abstract expressionism.

Ziggy, a 3-year-old Pekingese, has been creating works of art since 2007,

Unlike many struggling artists three-year-old Ziggy is doing a roaring trade, having no problem selling his paintings for as much as £171 each.

The dog, from Fallbrook, America, began painting in 2007 with the encouragement of his owner Elizabeth Monacelli.

Miss Monacelli, a violin instructor, attaches a paintbrush to the end of a paper roller, which Ziggy either bites into or attaches to his nose to paint on canvas.

But Ziggy is a temperamental artist who's prone to bouts of ennui and existential doubts.

"He enjoys painting but has to be in the right frame of mind for it," said Miss Monacelli.

It can take Ziggy days or weeks to finish a canvas, as the little dog only seems to carry his artistic inspirations for a minute or two at a time.

"He'll go for a while then just roll himself into a little ball and start snoring," said Miss Monacelli.

"Or he wanders off looking for snacks."

The Pekingese is an ancient breed of toy dog, originating in China. They were the favoured pet of the Chinese Imperial court.

According to the American Kennel Club their temperament of the dogs is "a combination of regal dignity, intelligence and self-importance make for a good natured, opinionated and affectionate companion to those who have earned its respect".