(Left) LuLu with her parents, Louise Ippilito and George DeCamp; (Right) LuLu poses on a log at Huntington Beach State Park.

It was a close competition in this year’s Cutest Pet Contest, but Maltese LuLu, who celebrated her 14th birthday on July 1, took home the gold.

When a friend from work’s cousin’s dog had a litter of puppies, Louise Ippilito and George DeCamp brought LuLu home.

She is named after Ed Norton’s (of The Honeymooners) lost pet, whose name he called out while sleepwalking.

LuLu, on the far right, enjoying some quality time with her father, brother, sister and cousin at Atalaya Castle.

“LuLu is Cleopatra reincarnated,” says DeCamp. “She likes to be carried around and hand fed. She is also part cat we think!” LuLu's favorite things include her stuffed doggy, dehydrated chicken treats homemade for her by her Mom, road trips and Cheerios. She also loves Nick, the couple’s nephew, who she has known since she was a pup.

“She loves everyone and understands English better than a fifth grader!” says DeCamp. LuLu has posed for Christmas cards each year since she was a puppy. She is a perfect model and will pose when the camera is pointed at her and she’s asked to stay still.

Out for a bike ride with Mommy and as the "Pink Baron" for a family Christmas card.

“Of course, a couple of Cheerios help!” says DeCamp.

Congratulations, LuLu!