The sixth annual Surf Dog competition - in pictures

Defending champion surfing dog Abbie rides a wave during the Loews Surf Dog Competition in Imperial Beach, California Photograph: Denis Poroy/Reuters

Each dog is given 10 minutes to catch his or her top two waves Photograph: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images

The animals are scored on confidence, length of ride and overall ability to 'grip it and rip it' Photograph: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images

According to the competition's website, the winners receive 'the ultimate pet vacation' at Loews Coronado Bay Resort Photograph: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images

There are three categories to compete in - Small Surf Dogs, Large Surf Dogs and Tandem Surfing, which involves multiple dogs and humans Photograph: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images

The competition plans to raise $10,000 for DonorsChoose.org, a charity to benefit US public schools Photograph: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images

Some dogs adopt a confident stance as they harness the power of the waves ... Photograph: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images

... but the sea can be a cruel mistress, and such overconfidence may lead to a fall, as seen in this spectacular wipeout Photograph: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images

Sometimes a dog may sacrifice some grace and elegance in order to get full marks for distance Photograph: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images

Other dogs may go for extra points by performing their moves backwards, a technique sure to wow the judges Photograph: Denis Poroy/Reuters