Hi :) I decided to incorporate a more realistic looking image into the design, because when I first looked at the designs I thought it was for some type of dog grooming, vet, etc. I love dogs also, but I think it should be clear when you're on your site that you are a lover of dogs and not in a dog-related business. You also mentioned that the image would move with the user as they move about the site. I think that the shape is also pretty important then--it shouldn't be too over-the top. You don't want it to become a bother. I like the green against your existing background color-nice pop! Anyway, feel free to leave any comments if this is a direction you'd like to head. Thanks for the opportunity. B Rouse