It's quite an interesting connection. The dog might be a sidekick or a key element that brings out certain emotions or plot developments in the comic for kids.
It usually involves adult content and might have elements of adventure or risky situations. But it's not something that's considered mainstream or appropriate for all audiences.
Well, they don't have an obvious direct connection. But you could have a comic about a cosplay event where someone is dressed as a pizza or cake character!
Hard to say exactly. It could be that Amano's work is featured on Manga Rock, or there could be some other form of collaboration or association. But without more info, it's hard to tell for sure.
One cartoon that comes to mind with big-eared characters is Winnie the Pooh. His ears are quite prominent and are part of his cute and endearing look. There could be countless others depending on the style and genre of the cartoon.