Hey Gunnsi, thanks for the comment. Back then (2002) I didn't know about Neatimage or you bet I would have used it! (not even sure it was legal to use in the challenge)
Excellent use of negative space. The camera angle is a bit odd. The horizontal angle is great -- you're just the right amount below the dog -- but I would have rather the lens was parallel to the nose.
cropping 1/5 or 1/4 of the left side of the picture might make it better. good depth of field on the dog and interesting camera angle. more of the eyes is always better on animals.