Many loving pet owners — whether they’re singles, retirees or families — see their beloved pet friends as valued members of the family, and include them in all kinds of celebrations. As a result, the family dog is pretty likely to receive gifts and treats such as gourmet dog biscuits or a comfortable bed for their birthdays or at Christmas.

It isn’t just looks, personality or being able to do tricks on command that makes a dog a prime candidate to become one of the new breed of celebrity dogs … other skills are required, too. Let’s examine what it takes to be a celebrity dog in a little more detail.