Dogs haven’t received the reputation of being “man’s best friend” for nothing. The recent story of Beau (a toddler living in Manhattan) and his best friend Theo (a mixture of boxer, shepherd, and lab breeds) proves that if a dog is a man’s best friend, then a puppy must be a little man’s best friend.

Jessica Shyba, Beau’ mother, has gathered a collection of photographs depicting the best friends napping together, which has taken the Internet by storm. Shyba’s Instagram has over 40,000 followers.

Shyba spoke about the life-changing event of finding the puppy at a shelter. “Big Bird, as he was named at the shelter, was the shyest of them all to meet us, though he bounded instantly into Beau’s lap as soon as he entered their pen. The look on his little furry face was enough to seal the deal for me, we had met our newest family member,” she said.

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Just Theo via the most amazing @VDog who's been the best support & friend a person could ask for. http://t.co/fEk7yYqIZK #theoandbeau

— Jessica Shyba (@MommasGoneCity) November 19, 2013

Today in nap land // Taking this opportunity to thank all of you for your kindness and love! Our cups runneth… http://t.co/hTp1DFkeeK

— Jessica Shyba (@MommasGoneCity) November 19, 2013

Shyba explains that the bond shared between boy and puppy was a natural, almost instinctual event. After the adoption process, and bringing the cute mixed breed home to the family, Shyba says, “The following day, Theo met us up in my room for the nap time ritual, and so began what I can only describe as the most organic and beautiful friendship I have ever witnessed.”

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I cannot. This is TOO cute! He sleeps like the baby 🙂 #PuppyCuteness http://t.co/ZSqUZYzlL4

— Betsy Devine (@BetsyDevine) November 19, 2013

This is, possibly, the most adorable naptime series ever created. http://t.co/yafd2hLQ2v pic.twitter.com/BtYpAHjV4N

— My Modern Metropolis (@mymodernmet) November 19, 2013

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The adorable friendship has garnered quite a following through Twitter, Instagram, and Jessica Shyba’s personal blog (http://www.mommasgonecity.com/) where several celebrities have also taken notice.

So cute it hurts http://t.co/dsHuMfw7g6

— Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) November 17, 2013

Ok, @TheEllenShow, word on the street is you have a thing for puppies & babies. Please meet #theoandbeau: http://t.co/cxy0wEzVP9 #petrescue

— Jessica Shyba (@MommasGoneCity) November 18, 2013

[Images Via Twitter, mommasgonecity.com, and Instagram]