The RSPCA has released distressing footage of a couple who filmed the beating of their puppy, before accidentally sharing it on social media.

One clip shows the couple scaring the dog with a slipper, while another shows them holding the dog down and repeatedly smacking its face and back with a shoe.

The spitz puppy is clearly distressed and can be seen cowering in fear.

Warning: The below footage may disturb some viewers 

Owners Ms Chen and Mr Deng initially meant to send the video to a family member but accidentally posted it to Chinese social media site Weibo, prompting a number of complaints to the RSPCA.

Both appeared in Downing Centre Local Court in October and pleaded guilty to committing an act of cruelty.

They were fined a total of $1955 and prohibited from purchasing, acquiring, taking control of or possessing any animals for 12 months.

The pair attempted to appeal the sentence but it was dismissed.

His Honor Judge King said at the dismissal:

“One offender recorded and uploaded the video of the punishment inflicted on the puppy, the other offender was striking the puppy twice on the head and seven times on the body while restraining it.

Each blow you can hear a loud thud, it is clear the animal is in a highly distressed state….

Animals can’t speak up for themselves. When cruelty is inflicted it is often done in private.”

A veterinary report concluded, “the animal has been unreasonably, unnecessarily and unjustifiably tormented and terrified causing pain and suffering”.

The puppy has been in RSPCA foster care since being removed from his owners and may be and available for adoption in due course.