A Chihuahua became a local spectacle at a Japanese temple, after the dog began to imitate the worshipers by clasping his front paws together, a position similar to hands placed together in prayer.

The dog, a two-year old long-haired Chihuahua named Conan, would reportedly assume the praying position taken by temple worshipers, as a way of asking for doggie treats.

"Clasping hands is a basic action of Buddhist prayer to show appreciations," said Joei Yoshikuni, a priest at the Jigenin temple. "He may be showing his thanks for treats and walks."

According to the AFP, Conan would regularly sit beside Yoshikuni, at a spot in front of the altar. The dog would get mad at any person attempting to take his favorite spot.

He would then stare at the Buddha figure, and just as Yoshikuni would clasp his hands in prayer, Conan would raise his paws and bring them together at the tip of his nose.

"I think he saw me doing it all the time and got the idea to do it too," said Yoshikuni, as quoted by the BBC.

Being a temple pet, Conan has drawn more visitors to the temple, with the congregation growing by 30 percent, including young tourists.

"I'm glad that people feel more comfortable visiting the temple because of Conan," said Yoshikuni.

He said that the dog only took a few days to imitate the actions. He said he would like for Conan to learn to meditate, perhaps as a way for him to get the dog to sit still.