TWO FRIENDLY pet pooches from Suffolk and Essex have been selected as finalists for a television talent show.

Originally played by a Cairn Terrier called Terry, 11 dogs from across the country are all competing for the role of Toto in the West End performance of the Wizard of Oz.

Featuring amongst the dogs on BBC One’s show Over The Rainbow, a reality talent show searching for a talented actress to play Dorothy Gale, are two friendly hounds from Essex and Suffolk.

Qannik, the Samoyed from Essex, was entered into the competition by his owner, Hannah.

The two-year-old is currently on the cover of Dogs Today magazine and was selected as a finalist due to his ability speak, crawl and limp.

Proud owner, Hannah, said that she believed Qannik could play the role of Toto because of his charm.

She said: “I think he’s got charm, charisma and he has the Samoyed smile that is only typical to the breed.”

Suffolk hound Dennis is also vying for the role of Dorothy’s right hand man.

The four-year-old Border Collie/Poodle is hoping to be selected to accompany Dorothy, the Tin Man, the cowardly lion and scarecrow in their search for the Wizard.

Dennis’ owner, Maggie, said: “Dennis should be Toto because he loves to work and he’s a very happy dog.

“He’s got the looks of Toto and the personality of Toto.”

The pair are preparing to take to the stage alongside the other nine finalists, where Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber will then select five dogs to continue on the Yellow Brick Road.

The winning Toto will be announced during the final show.