With the blur surrounding the face. It makes you focus directly at that face first. Also with the lighting in the front and the darkness in the back, reveals the details around the nose and eyes. It sort of gives it that mesmerizing feel to those who have dogs as pets. Such as the respect we have for our canine friends. Even the posture of this dog reflects its nobility. The photo's meaning for me is that, "even through your darkest times there will be always be someone there for you." This picture just clearly defines that with the way it was photographed and staged. It's just brilliant.