DOGFLUENCERS: Meet Harlow, Instagram's Cutest Gluten Detection Dog

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Whether you're looking for adorable photos, heartwarming stories, or expert tips on how to turn your own pup into a social media star, we've got you covered.

Today we got the honor of interviewing Brooke (Harlow's Human). You can find a direct link to their Instagram here.

Here is their story:

Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a dog influencer? What inspired you to start sharing your dog's adventures on social media?

Mommsen: I didn't set out for Harlow to become a dog influencer, but I realized quickly that people would be interested in her videos as they filled a content niche. Harlow is a trained gluten detection dog. I have Celiac Disease (an autoimmune disorder that requires a gluten-free diet) and together we test food at stores and restaurants, as well as recommend new products to the gluten-free community. When we started making videos, people were really interested in her skillset, and the rest snowballed from there. In addition to discussing gluten-free products, we also talk about life as a service dog duo. I work for Disney, so some of our content has centered around her as a Disney service dog, and our experiences in places where other dogs can't go (including Disneyland, botanical gardens, movie theaters, museums, etc.)

What do you think sets your dog apart from other dogs on social media? What makes them unique or particularly interesting to your followers?

Mommsen: Harlow is one of a kind. She's incredibly sweet, funny, and smart. The main difference between her and other dogs is the fact that she's a working service animal that detects gluten. What many people don't realize is that she has two different personalities. There's Harlow when she's working - very quiet and mellow. Then there's Harlow off-duty, when she's a totally normal dog. She's always well-behaved and loving, but there's a misconception that service dogs act like service dogs all the time. Some of her funniest videos show her personality after hours. She can't chase squirrels when her vest is on, but loves to at home. (That's the herding dog in her!) She is a fast runner, loves peanut butter, and spends her free time chewing or playing with her favorite toys. She also loves accessorizing with bandanas and wearing cozy sweaters.

How do you come up with ideas for your dog's posts and content? Do you have a specific creative process?

Mommsen: Sometimes I'm influenced by pop culture moments, but often I'm inspired by Harlow and what adventure we happen to be on. I also take requests for food testing from our audience. That feedback definitely helps guide what people want to see from us.

Have you ever faced any challenges or negativity on social media, and how have you dealt with it?

Mommsen: Thankfully we haven't faced any negative feedback yet, but I know some people question the efficacy of gluten detection dogs and whether the work they do is necessary. However, as someone with Celiac Disease, it definitely is for me. While I managed my diet for several years, aided by family experience and support, you put your well-being into someone else's hands every time you go to a restaurant or try something new. I am always careful to advocate for myself and stay educated on the latest food preparation tactics, but getting "glutened" a few times a year felt like an unfortunate reality. Now, with Harlow, I have peace of mind that the food that I'm consuming is safe. This saves me from terrible pain from accidental ingestion, as well as long-term stomach and immune system damage. This has considerably increased my quality of life by reducing food-related anxiety and knocking down barriers to eating out, particularly while traveling. As a child, I never could have imagined being able to navigate solo international travel. However, at twenty-seven years old, I've been to several countries by myself without issue. Now that I have Harlow, I know that travel will only become easier.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own dog influencer account or share their dog on social media?

Mommsen: I think my biggest advice for new creators would be not to fear failure. A lot of our videos "flop" and don't get a lot of views. However, at the end of the day, I enjoy making content with Harlow, and the people that watch our content regularly benefit from our gluten detection videos. Ultimately, that's what really matters to me. Also, consistency is key. The more you keep up with posting, the more that your viewers can depend on the content you provide. This helps develop your channel's personal brand and will eventually increase your following.

How has your dog influenced your life outside of social media?

Mommsen: Harlow has integrated seamlessly into my life, and actually helped me get outdoors and become more active. Beyond that, she has quickly become my best friend and is always down for whatever our next adventure may be.

Can you tell us about a particularly memorable or funny moment you've had with your dog during one of your photo shoots or adventures?

Mommsen: I should start by saying, there is never a dull moment with Harlow. However, I think a turning point for us was her first airplane ride. We'd only known each other for a couple of days, and it was a huge bonding experience to navigate the airport and flying together for the first time. (She did exceptionally well and snuggled with her giraffe blanket!)

What is your favorite thing about being a dog influencer?

Mommsen: It's been really nice getting to know others in the gluten-free and dog communities. Though, I will admit, the free gluten-free snacks don't hurt either!

Lastly, what's next for you and your dog on social media? Any exciting plans or projects in the works?

Mommsen: Harlow and I are excited to expand our gluten detection series, "Let's Get This Bread," and perhaps do a spin-off series where we suggest gluten-free alternatives to popular snacks. We're also happy to take suggestions from our audience to see what products they're curious about!