Australia's dog, Koko, has gone to the big kennel in the sky after succumbing to a congestive heart disease in Perth yesterday. The award winning Kelpie, best known for his heartbreaking role as the eponymous, town-uniting canine in this year's Best Film AACTA winner, Red Dog, was also a Golden collar winner and the subject of artist Adam Cullen's 2012 Archibald Prize submission.

Red Dog producer Nelson Woss said he was devastated.

"Through the making of Red Dog, Koko became Australia’s favourite dog," he said. "I will miss his companionship, his remarkable outgoing, friendly nature and the many long walks that we enjoyed together in Perth and around the country. His incredible journey has come to an end."

Koko was seven years old and clearly very talented. Rest in peace mate.