OPRAH WINFREY confided to pal JENNIFER ANISTON that she's enjoyed a happy life by dedicating herself to dogs, rather than a man - and thinks the "Friends" star should follow her lead, says an insider!

O and Jen spend hours talking about their pet pooches - both own several - and "Oprah says the love of her pets has fulfilled her in a way that has never made her miss getting married or having children," revealed a source close to Jen - who says Oprah warned the star she's barking up the wrong tree by depending on a man for happiness.

 "She says it makes life complicated and full of heartache." But Jennifer's not buying Oprah's philosophy. Said the friend: "Her dogs give her a lot of comfort and peace of mind, but Jen says relying on them for total emotional support is like being one of those crazy old cat ladies!" Mee-OW, Oprah! (Hey, maybe that explains why Jen jumped on that dawg JOHN MAYER!)

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