Dogs have been our special companions since the end of the 18th Century. Not only as faithful friends, they serve us as guide dogs, firehouse dogs, sled dogs, military dogs, police dogs and in many other capacities.

Police officers who choose to partner with a canine develop a deep, trusting and abiding relationship with their dogs. Not just a partner, these canines are considered family members and best friends by their handlers.

Russ Hess, Director of the United States Police Canine Association summarized this special relationship, "If you allow, the career of a K-9 handler will teach you many things about life, about yourself and most of all, about people. You will come away changed forever, for having a dog for a partner cannot leave you without leaving its mark."

What could be more eye-catching than a basket full of Vizsla puppies?

My Internet buddy, JArnold gives us a delightful treat with his jim-dandy photographs of these wrinkly babies.

Wouldn't you just love to snuggle with these little ones? Let us know by leaving a comment.

RUSTYSGOLDENSONG's adorable dog Maxie the Miracle pup, is bragging about the gift that Santa Paws left for him on Christmas Eve.

This photo has a huge "awwww" factor, don't you agree? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment.

Greeting Card
Angel, a Pomeranian from Georgia, likes to dress up and have her picture taken. She's been known to push the other dogs out of the way so she can be front and center for the camera!

Photo by Emilycorinn

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· Say Hi to Angel
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Connecticut Cuddler
This pup's owner says, "Mel is our 12-year-old border collie. He loves to cuddle up with our cat Midnight and also with the family. He absolutely adores attention from everyone."

Photo by Brandyctgrl

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· Say Hi to Mel
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Let's Go Out
Pretty Boy is a little cutie from Virginia. He loves dressing up for walks.

Photo by SeptemberRain567

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It takes a special touch and a passion for animals in order to capture their essence in artwork. Laura J. Smith embodies these two requisites in a way that truly honors them.

I had the pleasure of discovering The Artwork of Laura J. Smith through our mutual love of Barbaro, the great race horse. Obviously being an animal lover myself, I love her wonderful sketches, her greeting cards, and holiday ornaments.

While there is no guarantee that these items will be delivered in time for the holidays, they make wonderful gifts for any time of the year. 25% of the proceeds from these prints, 100% of the proceeds from her greeting cards and $5.00 per ornament will be donated to the Fund to Fight Laminitis at The New Bolton Center in PA.

Visit Laura's tips page to get fabulous ideas for taking great photographs of your pets and send us a link to them for our viewing pleasure.

Blair the Basset Hound puppy is lengthly all around, but I want to understand just how he manages to get around on those short little legs.

Watch PUPPY BASSET HOUND BLAIR BOW WOW !! from chubbyandblair and help me out by leaving a comment with an answer.

Satin Doll
Dillie was rescued six years ago from a busy road in New Jersey. She's now a very spoiled, well-loved and lucky girl.

Photo by Lanairoc

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The St. Bernard puppy Maggie Mae who made her debut last June, St. Bernard Puppy: Introducing Maggie Mae had her name changed to Elli Mae.
But that is not the only thing that has been changed about this adorable dog. It seems that Elli Mae now considers herself a lap dog. Weighing in at over 65 pounds she makes a strong impression on Fourhorsegal's husband, Hal.

Do you think she might also be trying to become a couch potato?

Leave a comment and let us know.

Maxie, a special 10 year-old dog, rescued and adopted by Jessy, aka RUSTYSGOLDEN when Maxie was only a wee 4 day- old puppy. Jessy discovered the pup. abandoned and clinging to life. With Jessie's excellent care, Maxie developed into an adorable dog.

Jessie and Maxie continue to remain inseparable . Best of friends, Maxie graciously allowed Jessy to dress her in holiday attire

Lean on Me
Little Virdell, a Brussels griffon from Michigan, makes himself comfy on the paws of his playmate Marley, a Great Pyrenees.

Photo by MagickWings

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Kakfly tells me that her 8 year-old Maine Coon cat, Moxie is one of the sweetest kitties with who she has shared her heart and home.

Ready for Tea
Laney, a 13-year-old Great Dane, is and always has been a big ham! In the family album, this picture might be captioned, "Aunt Laney models a fetching green hat."

Photo by VelvetGreenHerbs

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· Say Hi to Laney
· Put Your Pet Here

It's time to choose the 2007 Animal Hubbub Pet of the Year! The field of candidates is split right down the middle between canines and felines. Visit the gallery to find out a little tidbit about each of these competitors, then cast your vote for Pet of the Year!