Tail of wags to riches

A homeless dog turned pampered pooch is in demand as a high-end jewellery model.

Maxwell, an 11-year-old pugjapanese chin cross, is the canine face of an upmarket jewellery and gem store in Picton.

And the furry fashionista has delighted fans across the globe with his knack for showing off the finer things in life. Visitors to the swanky seaside store are used to seeing Maxwell draped in precious jewels.

His love of bling has Jewellery designer Amelia Pask with garnered the part-time model Maxwell. SPCA rescue dog a following, especially among the thousands of cruise ship tourists who flock to the town every summer.

Owners Belinda and Alex Leitch said Maxwell started coming into the store so he wouldn’t be home alone.

Jewellery designer Amelia Pask said: ‘‘He likes to sunbathe in the window and happily shows off our designs.

‘‘He’s like a cat really and if he’s had enough he just goes and lays down but when he’s in the mood he’ll let me drape him in chains and even wear clip-on earrings. Maxwell is a model like no other,’’ she said.

The popular pug has built up a healthy following on social media. But he has not let the fame go to his head, said Pask. ‘‘When he’s not modelling he heads outside to the cafe next door to see what he can get.

‘‘He also has a girlfriend, a schnauzer, who goes to work with her owner at Hair on High. ‘‘He lives a very pampered life,’’ she said.

The Leitchs have run the popular bespoke jewellery design store for five years and are delighted Maxwell has joinedthe family business.

‘‘He loves his pearls. Ever since he saw Johnny Depp wearing them he can’t get enough.

‘‘It’s great to have another family member on board,’’ said Alex Leitch.