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 Jennifer (Indiana, Solo, and Gilda'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?
Allen: I started the dogs page to help bring smiles to people’s faces. My dogs are such a wonderful part of my life and everyone loves them. From there it has developed into a page dedicated to sharing real life with my dogs. As well as detailing the complex relationship between my two male dogs at this time. I’ve been documenting their journey of reintegration after a dog fight. My page is also a place for people to find joy while hiking with their dogs. We have been exploring the great outdoors, and we love sharing what trails we have completed.
What do you think sets your dog apart from other dogs on social media? What makes them unique or particularly interesting to your followers?
Allen: Aside from the fact that I have incredibly beautiful animals. I think what sets us apart is the authenticity of our page. I have shared our struggles along our training journey. As well as our wins. In addition, the beginning of dog sports (ex: Rally) will also continue to help stand us apart from your typical pet accounts. I am not a dog trainer, but I am putting every ounce of effort I have to give my dogs the best possible life. All the while showing the reality of having a full-time job and multiple high-energy animals in one household. I think people can relate to our struggles and benefit from our experiences.
How do you come up with ideas for your dog's posts and content? Do you have a specific creative process?
Allen: I have a theatre degree. In some ways I feel like this has helped in regards to understanding how to direct and create film content. The creative process for me starts by looking at what is going on in our lives. Then it’s filming a lot of those actions (hiking, training etc.), and then taking time to find how those pieces fit together in relatable content. Sometimes ideas just come to you, and you roll with it. Others evolve over time. While there is some planning involved in content creation. I’ve never wanted my content to look rehearsed or fake. What you see on our page is what we are actually doing on a regular basis, the products we use and love, as well as the real struggles we are facing in our lives. Like two male dogs fighting and now being reintegrated back together, entering the world of dog sport with no idea what we are doing, and my husband being deployed.
Have you ever faced any challenges or negativity on social media, and how have you dealt with it?
Allen: Yes absolutely. At this time I do my best to ignore the things that are from trolls. I know my page is not for everyone and not everyone is going to agree with the tools and methods I use for my dogs (ex: muzzles when the boys are together or if they are being introduced to another dog). However, sometimes it's necessary to stand up for yourself and your animals. I try and do this in the most respectful way possible. If my page is not for them, they are welcome to look elsewhere. My animals are very well taken care of and loved. That fact is obvious. So I try to have courage and be kind.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own dog influencer account or share their dog on social media?
Allen: Don't let fear stand in your way. There is a great community out there to support you. Find your people and benefit from all the wonderful new things you can learn from sharing your journey with your dog.
How has your dog influenced your life outside of social media?
Allen: They have provided me great love and protection. They make my life better for so many reasons. They give me a reason for making every day the best I can.
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?
Allen: One of the funniest things I can remember happened on a small hike along the river. We were letting the dogs run around play while I filmed. Indy, my standard Australian Shepherd, just runs full force into the river, off the bank and just sinks under the water. He didn't realize the bank ended there. He immediately pops back up and begins swimming back to shore with this look on his face of pure confusion and betrayal. I couldn't stop laughing and neither could our group. Also no other dog followed him in. He was on his own.
What is your favorite thing about being a dog influencer?
Allen: The community and friends I am making from this. As well as the friends my dogs will and have made as well.
Lastly, what's next for you and your dog on social media? Any exciting plans or projects in the works?
Allen: We have a few brand collaborations we are working on. However, our biggest focus is beginning dog sport with both of the boys. Indy has started Rally classes and hopefully will participate in his first trial this summer or fall. Solo will be soon to follow. We are looking into dock diving, scent work, fast cat, and agility as well.
