An animal rescue centre in New Zealand is teaching dogs how to drive in order to prove how intelligent they are and attract potential owners for the animals.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals trained three dogs, named Monty, Porter and Ginny, to start a car, accelerate, steer and even change gears.

The clever canines spent weeks training in a mock vehicle seen here, before they were finally allowed the chance to prove themselves behind the wheel.

Sitting in the driving position on their haunches, the dogs respond to directions called out from animal behaviour experts. The car you can see them driving here is a Mini with a steering wheel especially adapted for paws.

Their driving manoeuvres have attracted global fame, with the dogs set to show off their skills on live TV in New Zealand next week.

Written and presented by Alfred Joyner