Messi, 3 other players who have found love with dogs (photos)

Love they say is beautiful and some great footballers have found it in pets, most especially dogs.

Superstars from Lionel Messi to Alexis Sanchez have taken their talent a notch-further finding comfort in these four-legged pets and they take every opportunity available to flaunt their pedigree chums with heart-warming pictures.

Here we look at four players who have found love in dogs...

1. Alexis Sanchez

The Arsenal forward believes animals are voluntary souls that have come to show true love to man.

Alexis Sanchez is said to be a lover of pets

2. Lionel Messi

The long-term partner of the Barcelona star Antonella Roccuzzo gifted him this Mastiff puppy. Messi’s picture with the dog on Instagram has gathered over two million likes and counting.

Lionel Messi was given this amazing puppy by his girlfriend Antonella

3. James Rodriguez

This guy is a staunch lover of animals. He has posted pictures of himself with different dogs on his social media accounts. He appears to be the proud owner of a golden retriever, cocker spaniel and French bulldog who he simply refers to as 'my amigos', according to the Daily Mail.

The Real Madrid attacker is a true lover of animals

4. Marcelo

The 28-year-old Marcelo bears a striking resemblance to his cute pet. The duo share the same approachable demeanour, especially with their unruly black hair.

Marcelo poses with his latest dogs

Although, the dog pictured named Lola is commonly seen with the Brazilian; Marcelo is said to have other dogs including the two latest additions Kiara the French bulldog and Thiag, a British bulldog.