Cowell to create X Factor for performing pets

Britain's Got Talent winner Ashleigh Butler said today she felt 'overwhelmed' by support from the public after she and her dog Pudsey triumphed in the live final of the competition (PA)

Simon Cowell is going to the dogs - with a TV show for performing pets.

The X Factor boss's production firm Syco is working on a programme featuring talented dogs which is expected to be screened over the festive period

Britain's Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon is considered favourite to host the programme, to be called Take The Lead.

Ashleigh and Pudsey (pictured), who won this year's BGT, are likely to be on the judging panel.

A source confirmed they are working on the one-off programme for ITV and said it was likely to take the form more of a variety show than a talent contest.

PA