McPherson pooch signs on for modelling job

Elle Macpherson's dog has signed a five-figure modelling contract.

Five-year-old labradoodle Bella has been snapped up by canine fashion label Dogside.com, and her picture will be featured on mini billboards across the UK.

Flora Page of Dogside said: "We approached leading models about their signing up their pets.

"Elle is a dog lover and was top of our wish list, so we were thrilled when she phoned up in person to say that she would love Bella to be the face of our brand."

Bella will model a range of outfits for "today's stylish urban dog", including leads, scarves, coats and bowls.

Elle, who was known as 'The Body' during her modelling heyday, has often been spotted taking her pooch for walks near her home in London.

Labradoodles are a cross between a labrador retriever and a poodle.

Dogs Today magazine editor Beverley Cuddy has warned against people rushing out to buy labradoodles, which can cost €1000, in the hope they will be signed up to modelling agencies.

She explained: "When Paris Hilton took her chihuahua everywhere, there was a rush in sales of handbag dogs.

"Just like people who want to put their child on the stage, people may see this and imagine their dog can be a bit of an earner for them. But there is not much available modelling work out there."

Elle's spokeswoman has not commented.