The Artist continued its impressive run of success in pre-Oscar award ceremonies with an accolade for its four-legged cast member.

The American Humane Association, which advocates for animals on film and TV sets, announced the top animals being honoured with Pawscar awards.

Uggie, the dog star in The Artist, was named best scene stealer.

Fellow Jack Russell terrier Cosmo, whose thoughts were communicated through subtitles in Beginners, won best animal speaking role.

War Horse was recognised for "best perception versus reality" for a scene that shows the title horse becoming entangled in barbed wire that was actually made from soft rubber.

Other winners include Dolphin Tale, We Bought a Zoo and Mr Popper's Penguins.

The Pawscars are among an emerging breed of awards honouring animal actors. The Golden Collar dog awards will be presented next week.