Amazing Dog Talents -- 8 Canines You'll Wish Were Yours

For the last 1,500 years, we've bred dogs to be our helpers, companions and protectors. They've come through for us, and so this week -- Assistance Dog Week -- we offer them a formal commendation that they can't possibly understand.

The week is dedicated to the great work of seeing-eye dogs and other pups who assist the burdened, but there are some who also shouldn't go unappreciated. It turns out that certain members of the canine community can talk, others can solve equations, and still others can take it strong to the hoop like a power forward. (That could be considered "assistance" if he's on your team.)

So after the jump, we offer evidence that will make you realize your talentless pooch needs to get off his pillow and do something with his life.

If there were more dogs like Rookie, there would be fewer middle-aged men forced into taking a ballroom dance class.


Maggie the math dog probably isn't smarter than a fifth grader; however we'd take her over most kindergartners and "stars" of reality TV. (The first 1:30 of this video are decidedly un-amazing.)


As impressive as this is, we suspect the little ninja is eventually going to regret not having a plan to get back inside the cage.


We're not going to pretend that this ditty is a threat to make the charts, but unlike that keyboard cat fraud, at least Porter the Musical Dog writes his own stuff.


If this video had ever gotten to Isiah Thomas, the appropriately-named Zeke would be counting against the Knicks' salary cap until 2012.


Skate or die, dog.


Yes, dogs can sing. Although their vocal style tends more toward Scooby than Scrappy.


Faith proves that, whatever the problem, it can be overcome if you stand up straight and walk like a man.



From the Web:
Animals Getting Drunk. (Afrojacks)
STDs That Show Up on Your Face. (AskMen)