LAZY British Bulldog Elvis spends most afternoons sleeping and waiting to be fed in his North-East home.

But at night he is transformed into the country's first canine tribute to the king of rock and roll.

With his turned-up collar and sequined jumpsuit, the five stone pooch comes alive when his namesake's songs are played.

And owners Hilda and David Branley think he could be set for a career on the stage.

They have kitted out their pet in a hand-made costume after choosing to name him after their favourite artist.

Housewife Mrs Branley, 58, of Cramlington, Northumberland, said: "He loves it. When we put Elvis music on he runs all over the place. We thought he might try and rip the outfit off but he hasn't bothered and leaves it on."

The couple were inspired to name their dog Elvis when they learned his breed name was King Rock.

And it seems like the canine King is following in the footsteps of the real Elvis in more than one way.

Mrs Branley said: "We got him his first costume but he grew out of it straight away.

"So we extended it to a bigger one and he grew out of that one. Now he's bursting out of this one, so we might have to get him another one.

"I believe the real Elvis got fat by eating too many beef- burgers.

"I make our Elvis a special mix of dog biscuits and chicken legs. There's no satisfying his appetite."

The couple's son, Paul, 19, said: "If I had to pick his favourite song, it would have to be Hound Dog, but he likes them all.