When Michael Malynowski opened his front door and shouted, “We won!” his 100-pound yellow Labrador retriever jumped into his arms.

Malynowski, 32, and his dog, Toby, were recently named winners in a contest that will have them gracing the cover of the Milk- Bone Original Dog Biscuit box for large dogs in the near future.

Malynowski entered the contest on a whim after his wife, Sue, saw a newspaper advertisement requesting dog owners who have a special connection with their pets.

Since Malynowski and Toby are practically inseparable, he took a chance and submitted a photo.

“It was a shock to find out that we actually won,” he said.

Sue Malynowski said she was also surprised because the competition was stiff.

“I always hoped that we would win, but there were some very cute dogs we were up against,” she said.

The new Milk-Bone box featuring the duo will hit stores during the summer of 2007.

“I don’t know how I feel about it,” Malynowski said with a laugh. “It’s going to be different to walk down the grocery store aisle and see your face all over the place.”

Malynowski will also receive a year’s supply of the dog biscuits and a $250 cash prize, which he said he might donate to local animal shelters.

Toby, who has been described as a Milk-Bone fanatic, beat five other dogs from across the country in the large dog category.

The votes were cast on the Internet over the past month. Malynowski said he doesn’t know the official margin of victory.

He said he credits his family and friends for voting every day. Another factor, he said, was the amount of local newspaper and media coverage the two received.

David Contract, Milk-Bone’s brand manager, said Malynowski and Toby won because they exemplified the meaning of the contest.

“I think they showed the bond that Milk-Bone helps cement between owners and pets,” he said. “It’s such a natural connection that they have.”

Malynowski and Toby have been best friends since he purchased the dog from a breeder as a puppy four years ago.

“He’s been a great addition to the family,” he said.

During Malynowski’s recovery from kidney cancer two years ago, Toby rarely left his side – except for the occasional Milk-Bone.

While he loves to spend time giving love to his owner, Toby is also an energetic dog. “I tire out far before he does,” Malynowski said.

Visitors always receive a prompt welcome from Toby, who likes to lick their faces.

“Nobody leaves here without getting yellow hair on them or without being licked,” Malynowski said.

Still, Toby has been gentle with the Malynowski’s 6-monthold daughter, Samantha. He’s been the perfect pet.

Malynowski said he should be receiving coupons for free Milk-Bones soon and that Toby can’t wait.

“It’s definitely gone to his head,” he said.