Frank Mansell got it right (at least as far as dogs are concerned) in his poem:
CUPBOARD LOVE
Hold up thy paw, old dog and shake me by the hand; I prize it more than grasp of human kind; For well I know that clumsy clasp will stand, And thy regard veer not with every wind.
Thou wilt not burn with envy nor with hate, Nor sully my good name with slanderous tongue; If I give but a morsel from my plate, Thou art content and I need fear no wrong.
Thou would'st not cast me off in time of need, Nor yet betray me if my back was turned. Thou would'st not leave my side for lust or greed; I prize thy loyalty - it is returned.
A rattling dish. Dog! Hound! Perfidious one! Hast pricked thine ears, withdrawn thy paw and gone?