Uggie, the film's star Jack Russell terrier, became the first dog to put its paw prints in cement in front of the theater. The ceremony also marked Uggie's retirement from show business.
Uggie, who arrived at Grauman's in a fire truck, performed tricks for photographers and tourists lining a red carpet, and received a cake in the shape of a fire hydrant. He was joined by pooch pals Lassie and Rin Tin Tin and "Artist" actor Ken Davitian.
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 loyal canine companion to Jean Dujardin's fading silent film star. Uggie also appeared in the films, "Mr. Fix It," "What's Up Scarlett," "Wassup Rockers" and "Water for Elephants."
But Uggie's career almost never was. The dog was headed to the pound after being rejected by his first two owners for being too wild. Luckily, animal trainer Omar Van Muller stepped in and adopted Uggie, and the rest is Hollywood history.
"The main message that Uggie would like to send to everybody out there is to please adopt," Van Muller told the crowd. "He's adopted. He made it. If you guys can adopt a dog, even if they don't make it on the big screen, they'll be big stars at your house."
The ceremony came one day before "The Artist" is released on DVD and Blu-ray.
The Associated Press and City News Service contributed to this report.
