Is it impossible to get valuable critique on such a forum?

Carlos...

The DOF is super shallow and I absolutely love it... it depends on 2 things though, how you wanted to present your subject and how much you enjoy it... because, in the end, unless you're trying to sell your images, it's about capturing the memory, doing the subject justice and preserving the moment the way you see it!  I think you've done admirably on all three counts!

An added benefit is when you can touch the soul of an unsuspecting viewer (as you've done with me). It immediately brought to mind the close relationship I had with my dog (Jazz) and his quirky personality.

Given the context of this thread, even if you were to post this asking for a technical critique of the use of your equipment, I'd still gush over this image! I just love it and would honestly love to print it!

Well done!

--
D7000, D300s, D80, 18-200 VRII, Nikon 50mm 1.8 / 1.4,
Tamron 90mm, Nikon 80-200 2.8 AF-D,
Sigma 10-20mm - Sigma 17-50 2.8 - SB-800
50mm 1.8D
Gear up..... Get out there!!!