DOGFLUENCERS: Meet Leia, The Epitome of Sunshine

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 Katherine (Leia'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?

Saballos: I wanted to capture Leia’s journey through pictures but didn’t want to bombard all my family and friends on my personal profile so I decided to make her own instead. Eventually we got asked by a small business to model bandanas for her and the rest is history.

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

Saballos: We do a little bit of everything, I wouldn’t say we have a “niche”, we like to do it all. We show off our favorite dog friendly spots, what training looks like, which can be controversial to some. Our favorite food/treats. She’s a girl that can do it all, from getting down and dirty to being the girliest dog you know.

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

Saballos: There’s days where we hit a creative roadblock but I just have to remember to keep it personal, I can’t compare myself to others, that’s their journey not ours. We share our own personal experiences, stay up to date with trending topics, create educational content whether it’s grooming, training, or breed specific information. Seasonal themes are always fun too. Keeping engaged with our followers helps build a community, we’ve made some amazing friends in the dog world.

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

Saballos: Having 2 videos go viral on TikTok it was bound to happen. I just ignore it. Everyone has their opinions, not needing to explain or defend myself keeps the inner peace.

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

Saballos: Go for it! Stay true to yourself and your dog’s personality. Authenticity resonates with audiences and helps build trust and credibility. And most importantly have fun!

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

Saballos: She’s pushed me out of my comfort zone. She gets me to explore the world as cliche as it is but stop and smell the roses. She’s taught me patience and the meaning of unconditional love. I don’t know where I’d be without her.

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?

Saballos: Oh there’s so many to choose from. People who say dogs don’t have a personality are completely wrong! I have never met someone with so much sass, she’s too smart for her own good. She has this thing where she likes to hide her bully sticks/yak chews in between the couch cushions. Even if it’s in plain sight we have to pretend like we don’t see it. We made the mistake of moving it once and the sigh of disappointment she let out as if it was the end of the world. She’s too smart for her own good. It’s her world we just live in it.

What is your favorite thing about being a dog influencer?

Saballos: All the people we get to meet! I’m an introvert, if I didn’t have her I’d be content just hanging out with my fiancé at home relaxing. Because of her I’ve met wonderful like minded friends who share the same passion for their dogs as I do.

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

Saballos: Weather is finally warming up, hoping to get Leia signed up for dock diving. We have some potential collabs in the works, you’ll have to follow us to find out ;)