I actually think #39 is as close to right yet. I like the scowl. Any chance you can make it look like a different type of dog? As much as I want the dog to be conceptual, I don't want it to look too much like a cartoon.
I like the colors too. What about doing the same inner circle like #19 has and doing that on #39?
Remember, I would like to use just the dog with the flames eventually so I need to bee able to have a strong dog.
Nice! The last couple of things might be seeing if you can make the flames more symetrical. They seem a little out of balance. (See my original flames). also, can you create just a tiny bit of space between the flames and the dog's head?