The picnic, held at Pepper Tree Wineries on Sunday morning, saw almost 500 people and their dogs laze about in the sun to raise money for Dog Rescue Newcastle.

Organiser Michelle Preece said the crowd, the biggest since the event began some years ago, raised about $800 for the cause.

“We’re very happy with the turn-out,” she said.

“Dogs are a big part of people’s lives and there aren’t many places in the Hunter where you can take them for a day to relax.”

Ms Preece said she had noticed the breeds of dog at the picnic change of the years.

Last year was all pugs, this year chihuahuas.