Welcome to the ultimate destination for dog enthusiasts and social media mavens alike. At Dogfluencers, we're passionate about showcasing the best and brightest in the world of four-legged fame.
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 Hannah (Hendrix'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?
Hiler: Our journey began when my partner and I adopted Hendrix in December 2021. As soon as I saw Hendrix’s picture on our local shelter’s page I knew he coming home with us! Hendrix is a tripawd, which means he has three legs. I follow many dog accounts on my personal social media accounts but I didn’t see any tripawd dogs. I decided to share Hendrix’s life online to help with tripawd representation. I wanted to show the world that tripawds can do anything four legged dogs and live the happiest lives. It’s been amazing seeing messages and comments from people who have tripawds and love seeing Hendrix online.
What do you think sets your dog apart from other dogs on social media? What makes them unique or particularly interesting to your followers?
Hiler: Hendrix is such a unique dog!! As I just mentioned, he is a tripawd. Our audience loves seeing Hendrix run, jump, and hop just like other dogs. Our followers love how he always has a smile on his face and how inspiring he is! Hendrix also had an interesting start to his life. Hendrix was found as a stray on the island of St. Croix, USVI at just 5 months old. He was alone with a broken leg but the vets say he was still the happiest puppy. Hendrix’s leg was not going to heal properly which is why they ultimately had to amputate. Hendrix was flown to Orlando, FL thanks do our local shelter, and the rest is history. Since Hendrix is an island dog, or as the local refer to these dogs as “Potcakes,” his DNA is very intriguing. Hendrix is a super mutt with a small percentage of Pit Bull, Chow Chow, Bulldog, Poodle, Chihuahua, German Shepard, Stafford Terrier, and many more. This means his appearance is not like many dogs. His unique appearance makes him so cute. Overall, Hendrix is such an interesting and one in a million dog which is why I love to share his life online.
How do you come up with ideas for your dog's posts and content? Do you have a specific creative process?
Hiler: My creative process for coming up with content is not glamorous haha. I love following trends so I keep myself up to date with the trending audios everyday. Instead of planning out content, I create a new reel or video everyday to make sure it has the best chance of being relevant for our audience. I’ve also found that Instagram’s algorithm specifically will push trending audios, which is how we are able to reach a larger audience. In the other hand I’m always looking to create something original. Also of my ideas come from just filming Hendrix living his life. He’s such an entertaining dog to begin with, I usually just take inspiration from him acting silly or looking super cute. There is definitely a balance of creating content you know will reach more viewers while also creating original content to better formulate your original brand.
Have you ever faced any challenges or negativity on social media, and how have you dealt with it?
Hiler: Luckily we have not faced a lot of negativity online. There have been a handful of trolls, or users who purposefully comment mean things to provoke. Anytime this happens, I just realize the issue is with the user and they are taking it out in our comment section. Instead of fighting back in the comments, I choose to nip it in the bud and just delete the comment. I also actively surround our online presence with other great creators. Having an online support system of like minded creators has been amazing for venting any frustrations or asking for advice.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own dog influencer account or share their dog on social media?
Hiler: My biggest advice for those who want to start a dog influencer page would be to find your niche. There are thousands of dog accounts so in order to actively gain a following, you need to show your audience how your dog stands out. Also, posting consistently and using trending audios to work in tandem with the algorithm is key to reaching more users. Finally, following other dog accounts and interacting with them (like and commenting) will boost their content and yours. It’s crucial to be active with your audience so your followers feel connected to you and continue supporting your page.
How has your dog influenced your life outside of social media?
Hiler: Hendrix has changed by life for the better! Hendrix has brought so much joy and purpose into my life. I adore caring for him and appreciate the love he returns. His companionship is unmatched. I also have picked up a hobby of dog training with him. Hendrix has earned four AKC titles and is currently training for another titles. Our current goal is for Hendrix to train to become a Therapy dog! The friendship and purpose Hendrix brings, plus the cuddles, makes him so important to my life!
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?
Hiler: Last year I was planning a photo shoot with Hendrix in my bedroom. I set up a whole backdrop, had the props ready, and was ready to start taking pictures. Of course Hendrix thought this was the PERFECT time to get zoomies. He started running around the house and going crazy. To try and calm him down, I put him in the bedroom and closed the door. In the midst of his zoomies, he jumped up on the door and locked himself in the bedroom!! We had just moved into this house and didn’t have a key! I was of course freaking out but our apartment’s maintenance worker quickly came to unlock the door. When we finally got the door open, Hendrix was napping on the bed without a care in the world! I just about had a heart attack and Hendrix got a nap. I decided to wait and do the photo shoot tomorrow and give Hendrix the day off haha.
What is your favorite thing about being a dog influencer?
Hiler: My favorite thing about being a dog influencer is interacting with our followers! The love we’ve seen on our posts warms my heart. It’s so great to see the positive effect we have on people. We’ve received messages of followers who are thankful we’re sharing Hendrix’s story and are happy to see a tripawd living the best life. The friends we’ve made online from our social media pages have been so amazing!
Lastly, what's next for you and your dog on social media? Any exciting plans or projects in the works?
Hiler: We are lucky to have just hit 5K followers on our Instagram page! Next, we are making it a goal to hit 10K before the end of the year. We’re also working to get a following on TikTok like the one we have on Instagram. As for upcoming projects, I plan to vlog Hendrix’s journey to becoming a Therapy dog so our audience can watch along. More videos to come with our Therapy dog adventures! Overall our audience can expect even more content as the page continues to grow!
