Hot Dog! Jack Russell Terrier From 'The Artist' Becomes First Canine Honored At Grauman's

HOLLYWOOD (CBS) — "Uggie," the Jack Russell terrier who captivated audiences in the 2011 best-picture Oscar winner "The Artist," became the first dog to sink his feet into wet cement in front of Grauman's Chinese Theatre Monday.

The ceremony also marked Uggie's retirement from show business. He was joined at his "retirement party" by Lassie and Rin Tin Tin and received a cake made in the shape of a fire hydrant by Duff Goldman, the star of the Food Network series, "Ace of Cakes."

Uggie won the 2011 Palm Dog Award and was named as the best dog in a theatrical film in February at the inaugural Golden Collar Awards for his portrayal of the co-star and loyal off-screen companion of silent movie star George Valentin, played by actor Jean Dujardin.

According to biographical information provided by publicists for "The Artist," Uggie was born in Florida in 2002 and was too wild and high energy for his first owners to be a simple companion dog. Professional animal trainer Omar von Muller adopted Uggie and soon after he began appearing in print ads and television commercials for dog food, cars and beer.

Uggie traveled with the Incredible Dogs Show, appearing in Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Mexico and Miami, performing tricks and riding a skateboard. He also appeared in the films, "Mr. Fix It," "What's Up Scarlett," "Wassup Rockers" and "Water for Elephants."

The ceremony came one day before "The Artist" was set to be released on DVD and Blu-Ray.