Pets are responsible for breaking thousands of ornaments each year, according to research carried out by claims specialist Loss Management Group (LMG).

And its dogs that are the worst offenders when it comes to smashing prized possessions.

"Every year, thousands of ornaments are broken by dogs wagging their tails," said LMG managing director Tony Le Fevre.

But feisty felines are not far behind in the destruction stakes, said the survey.

Cats frequently jump on to mantelpieces and break carriage clocks, cut crystal and candlesticks.

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