'World's prettiest dog' Tea the Afghan Hound

Is this the world's prettiest dog? Photo / Facebook Luke Kavanagh

Tea the Afghan Hound has been named the world's prettiest dog by adoring fans who love her luscious locks.

The "supermodel" dog from Sydney became an overnight social media sensation due to her glossy hair.

She is a highly decorated show dog and well-admired in those circles but had never before experienced such social media fame.

Her owner, Luke Kavanagh, posted a picture of her on Facebook and was surprised when it got scores of likes and shares.

In the photograph, she sits gracefully on a bench with her hair on full display, as she stares thoughtfully into the distance.

Mr Kavanagh told NewsLocal: "Even our weekend walks draw a crowd. She pretends she doesn't need the attention, but she definitely loves it, just like any supermodel.

"I guess people were mostly drawn to [the photo] because of her silky coat coupled with that dignified look that Tea has, but that's just her being her."

Tea's social media fame managed to land her a modelling deal for dog food and another for dog shampoo.

The pooch was apparently a "natural" at modelling and animal acting, and "numerous" companies have approached Mr Kavanagh to ask if he can use her image.

However, the dog is now going into retirement as an actor because the preparation time was too much for the pair to handle.

Her owner said: "Her retirement is due to no other reason than I reached a point where showing (grooming and show day) was taking me away from spending time with my family and I want to prioritise them over campaigning my dog."

"I have such a special bond with Tea & we have shared a lifetime of wonderful moments together.

"On show day she exemplifies Afghan hound, she is dignified, aloof and most certainly displays a keen fierceness. At home she is such a character and really loving her retirement.

"Whether she's naked or draped in the finest of silk gowns, Tea will always be my queen."