DOGSPOTTING: Golden Age of the Retriever

I haven't posted a big dog in a while so let's make it count with a classic. Spotted this man's best friend in Sunset Junction. I am still figuring out all the big dog breeds, but I am almost certain this a Golden Retriever, and what a beaut! I feel like Golden Retrievers are a great all american dog, like the Collie. Perfect for families, but a great life-mate for a swinging bachelor or a couple that thinks babies are too small, and cry too much. This little lady above was attached at the hip to her owner, making sure that he was safe but still having fun hittin' the town. If only we could all have somebody like that! I spend way too much time getting hurt and not having fun. Like I always say: Dogs fix all problems.

DOGSPOTTING: The Mists of Dogalon

Well look at this little trickster! Spotted in Silverlake, taking his owner for a walk in the LA heat. I think it is a Japanese Spitz, but it could also be some sort of mystical snow fox or ghost coyote. One of those three for sure though. Actually, I think all Spitz dogs look like magical coyotes/foxes/wolves. But can't you just see this guy appearing to you when you're lost in the woods? And he leads you to a trail or some forgotten treasure or towards the missing girl who you've been looking for since you started at the police academy? MAGIC DOG.

DOGSPOTTING: YES WE CANINE

Like many Southern California residents, I am indifferent to the Chihuahua thanks to the overpopulation of the breed here. I read somewhere that they are not only the #1 breed in California, but also make up 30% of dogs in some shelters! These little fellas are EVERYWHERE and they start to lose their appeal after you see a hundred. But as I walked into my local 7-Eleven, this little dude caught my eye. Leashed up and waiting for his owner, this pint-sized pup gave the come-hither-(pet me)-look. I love the coloring and those over-sized ears. I think his stature is what makes him so cute; confident yet approachable. An ambassador Chihuahua, representing for his breed, giving speeches outside corner markets, and licking babies faces. Vote for Chihuahua 2012.

DOGSPOTTING: The Puggle World

PUGGLE IS THE BEST BREED NAME. That is just a fact. Say it: PUGGGLLEEEE. Probably the best portmanteau, which I am also a huge fan of. If I had a puggle I would probably name it Melissabeth or Richilliam. I haven't met a lot of Puggles, but I like what they got going on. I spotted this guy in Silverlake roaming around a street fair. I swear I saw him 6 times in 2 hours-- everywhere I went, he was there. He was super friendly and active. In a related note, have you google image search puggle puppies? The ones with really puggy faces make me want to carry one around in my purse everywhere I go and never let it out of my sight. Pugs are so ugly they're cute, but the Puggle is just straight up cute. Beagles are the all American Man's Best Friend of small dogs. So why not throw a little Pug Pizzaz into the mix? Hey, Puggle, I totally get you, and you're alright with me.

THIS JUST IN: My friend, Sean Hess, has confirmed that he not only friends with this Puggle, but that the dog's name is a portmanteau! JARETH THE PUGGLE. Ok, I haven't confirmed that the name is portmanteau, maybe it is an inside joke, but whatever, it COULD BE! JARETH, YOU'VE BEEN SPOTTED!

DOGSPOTTING: Boutique Bichon Style

Ooo-la-la! This Bichon Frise est très fabulous! This pup is as classic as a Chanel handbag: always in style, and goes with any outfit. Spotted in Santa Monica, walking the boardwalk like a runway. I just love that grown out, but kempt, natural Bichon coat. I am all for puppy cuts on most non-shedding dogs, but the Bichons' fluffy mane is just too unique to deny. During a recent mini-marathon of Animal Planet's Dogs 101, I totally fell involve with these playful, super-posi dogs. If I were throwing a puppy party, this would be the A-list, Page Six, party animal that I would invite first.

DOGSPOTTING: CELEBRI-DOG

Spotted getting her cardio on, Zooey the French Bulldog. You wouldn't expect to see a lot of companion dogs out on a grueling hike in Malibu, but on this particular day I saw 4 dogs, 3 of which were smaller champer-gamper types. I mean, if they want to keep their petite little figures, I guess they gotta put in the work too. Zooey was on her way up a steep incline, taking it in stride, and leaving her human behind. And look at that collar! If she is going to work out, she is going to look GOOD. Such a new-glamour-Hollywood dog. Kind of like the Jennifer Aniston of dogs. Have you seen J. Aniston's arms/legs? Almost as fit as Zooey's.

VIDEO: Best Music Video Ever

Just WOW. I have always been a HUGE fan of OKGO's music videos (and their music, just don't tell me cool hipster friends) but THIS VIDEO TAKES THE DOG BISCUIT. I can't get enough of this! Watch, re-watch, share and comment!

DOGSPOTTING: Marma-dog

Excuse me! Big awesome dog coming though! Move out of the way or he will jump on you and lick your face! Spotted in near Sunset Junction, a classic amber coat and a friendly face. I think this is a Great Dane, but I am still trying to learn all the big dog breeds. I love the idea of security dogs with a softer side, and I think that is what this guy has going on. I am (obviously) more of a companion dog fan, but as usual, I would not mind going to the dog park and a frisbee throw with this dude. I am just not sure he would fit in my car (so I hope he likes long walks) (who doesn't!)

DOGSPOTTING: Twin Shih Tzu

You are not dreaming. This is a real picture. A real picture of real dogs. Two, real, cute, Shih Tzu, best friend, CANINE LIFE MATES. I have tried to think of something more awesome than this picture and I just can't right now. And get this: Their names? OZZIE AND GIZMO. GET OUT OF TOWN WITH THAT ABSURDITY. Just the thought of a little white Shih Tzu pal named Gizmo is enough to make a grown man cry. Make it a double dog by throwing in a grey rag-a-muffin fella' named OZZIE?!? I think I am about to have a stroke. Help me.

DOGSPOTTING: HIPPIE DOG

This guy! What a fun-loving-champer-gamper! Just moseying around looking for some snacks, belly rubs, and maybe a face to lick. I have recently gotten into sheepdogs. They seem really lovable and sometimes a little dopey in stature, despite their innate tendency to herd and control the situation. He looks too fun to push around some sheep! Party dog! This flopsy fellow looks like a Polish Lowland Sheepdog, I think. If only I could find a non-shedding breed mixed with a sheepdog!! I would probably faint from the excitement of such a dream come true.

DOGSPOTTING: NOT A CARE IN THE WORLD

I have NO IDEA what kind of dog this could be, but it is one of the most awesome sights I have had the pleasure to behold. Driving on the 10-W (well, riding, I have a driver/boyfriend) I spotted this fella' on his way to the beach, smiling, curls in the air, with not a care in the world! He is actually smiling! And quite a big guy I might add. I screamed, squealed, and frantically grabbed my camera out of my purse. I barely managed to get these two shots. This image seriously changed my day/weekend/life for the better. I think we all wish we were that dog, or at the very least, wish we could could be his driver.

DOGSPOTTING: A MASTIFF-PIECE

Wrinkle dooogggggg!!! Spotted waiting for his owner outside of Urth Caffe in Santa Monica, this Mastiff (English? Neapolitan?) was such a find! This is the kind of dog you could settle down with in a 1 bedroom house near the beach, and spend your days walking, living the good life. Just you, and your gigantic, faithful dog. He would probably protect you from an intruder just by sitting on them and not letting them up til the cops arrive. I wonder if the owner lets him sleep in the bed with him? Would you have to get a custom made doggie bed? Is his doggie door half the size of the human door? How much food does he eat each day? Where is his favorite dog park? So many big dog big questions!

DOGSPOTTING: ADOPT HIM!

How freaking cute is this guy!?!? Spotted at a rescue adoption tent in Santa Monica, getting pet left and right. 1) I love love love doxies 2) I SUPER LOVE dogs/cats in bandanas 3) Pet adoption is the way to go!!! This is just a great look for this guy, I have no doubt he is already in his forever home. Who could say no to those floppy ears, that little nose, and don't even get me started on those eyes! Again, I love dogs with red coats. Like all dachshunds, this little fella' has that honest, endearing, adopt me kind of face. If this dog asked to borrow $100, I would totally do it. And I NEVER loan anyone money.

DOGSPOTTING: Long lost twins!

Don't let your eyes deceive you, this isn't a special one English bulldog double-picture spread, it is actually TWO DIFFERENT long lost twin bullies! Mere feet from each other! I saw one, turned around on the spot I was standing, and the other guy was right there! And they had never met! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? What an incredible double dog spotting! Exclamation Marks! I couldn't make up something so crazy! I encouraged the owners of these two to exchange numbers in hopes that they would set up a bulldog (b)romance. The didn't go for it.

DOGSPOTTING: Purse Pup

Life must be awesome for people with dogs small enough to carry around in a purse. I know you can take any medium sized dog around on a leash, but a dog you can sneak into places? That is some serious next level living. Not only that, this dog is freaking adorable! I am almost crying here. Sweet little thing. If this was my dog, I don't think I would ever stop kissing it's soft little head. I don't understand how people could dislike little dogs completely, or hate on toting them around in bags. Is this an especially small Yorkie? Or just a young itty bitty baby? I can't tell. Maybe it isn't a Yorkie. He looks too small and soft to be a Yorkie. Unreal. Maybe it isn't real at all...