Britain's Got Talent winners Ashleigh Butler and Pudsey have helped to launch a new Kennel Club competition to find the UK's most talented dog.

Ashleigh and Pudsey, who are members of the Young Kennel Club, are appealing to all dog owners to give their talented pets a chance to shine in the Crufts Factor competition.

The competition is searching for dogs with a wide range of talents, whether it’s dancing Dalmatians, singing Shih Tzus, sporting Samoyeds or artistic Akitas.

There will be a one-off heat at Discover Dogs at Earls Court on November 10, and all finalists will perform on the world’s most famous dog stage, at Crufts in March 2013.

Ashleigh said: “Dogs have an amazing ability to learn all sorts of skills, so it is really exciting to see the launch of a competition that is solely dedicated to celebrating dogs and their talents.

“Pudsey has always adored performing and working with me as a team and it was great to give him the chance to show his skills to the nation. Crufts Factor gives all dogs the same opportunity.”

Dog owners are being urged to upload a video of their animal's special talent via the Discover Dogs Facebook page (www.facebook.com/DiscoverDogs).

Three finalists will be chosen from the videos with the most Facebook votes, while a fourth wildcard finalist will be picked from all entries.

Finalists will perform in front of a panel of judges at London’s Earls Court and the winner will be guaranteed a place in the Crufts final.

A further three Crufts finalists will then be selected, based on a YouTube competition which will be launched in the run up to the world’s greatest dog show in March 2013.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Communications Director, said: “We are looking for dogs that have what it takes to become stars. Last year Simon Cowell talent scouted our Young Kennel Club member Ashleigh Butler and her dog Pudsey and we want to find another star to follow in their footsteps.

“We will find our first finalist at Discover Dogs in November, and encourage all dog owners who know their dog is special, and want the world to know it too, to get involved.”

The talent demonstrated should be both safe and enjoyable for the dogs. For further information, please visit www.discoverdogs.org.uk