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 Megan (Pieck'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: Dog influencing was never something I thought I'd have for myself. Pieck is my first personal dog and a few weeks after we adopted her I noticed that I was taking a ton of pictures and videos of her and sending them to my family, so I thought "why only share this cuteness with my family?" That's where Pieckthegsd was born! I started off with just posting funny trending videos with a cute gsd puppy but as shes grown up and we started to deal with reactivity we made a small switch to sharing our journey with everyone and have found a fantastic community of dog parents who struggle with the same issues!
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: What sets Pieck apart from other dogs on social media is that I don't try to portray her as perfect. Not saying every other dog accounts do but I am very open and honest about Pieck's journey and struggles with dog reactivity. We don't run a dog photography page, or dog humor page. I try to share our life the good, bad and ugly parts and it has truly provided me with an awesome community and friends that understand and support our journey.
How do you come up with ideas for your dog's posts and content? Do you have a specific creative process?
Allen: I still LOVE posting trending reels but I have started to take it in the direction of tailoring it towards our reactivity journey. I find inspiration from trending sounds, other creators (and putting our own twist) or what we are currently working on in life. At this time I don't sit down and plan a ton of content at one time. I just go with what I am feeling for that day and share what we want!
Have you ever faced any challenges or negativity on social media, and how have you dealt with it?
Allen: Oh have I lol. I have an account that talks about my reactive German Shepherd so on about every video where I talk candidly about it I have some rudeee comments and hate. There is such a negative vibe around reactivity and people love to voice their own opinions and throw judgement toward others when they get to hide behind a computer or phone. I have found that not letting them get under my skin works best for me. I do try to respond to every comment (even the mean ones) and try to be nice. One of my biggest videos I had other people DM me stuff like "wow how are you so nice to these people" and it's just not worth it to me. They want me to get mad. But I know my dog and they don't. Simple as that. I want a welcoming and safe community for reactive dog owners so I give the same back even toward the rude people.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own dog influencer account or share their dog on social media?
Allen: Just do it! Seriously don't start off with crazy expectations (because you might get disappointed and want to quit) just have fun and share your awesome dog! Do it for yourself and your dog. I NEVER thought when I started Pieck's instagram that I would have the followers that I do or the fact that brands want to work with me. That was never in the cards when I started. I wanted to just share my first GSD and bring people along for the ride. Be authentically you and don't apologize for it!
How has your dog influenced your life outside of social media?
Allen: I have grown so much since having Pieck. There is nothing like having a dog that is 100% yours. Pieck has brought me out of my comfort zone and I've met some great people in the dog world! I get to be a part of a bond that is like no other. Pieck depends on me for absolutely everything in her life and I get to be that for her. I've learned a new level of responsibility, love and respect for dog owners. We have both grown so much since we first came together! She is truly my soul dog.
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: Pieck is a pretty serious dog but lord when she gets the zoomies she gets the zoomies! I am the one who love to take pictures of her so wherever we are I'm always wanting to capture photos of her. Well Pieck doesn't always love that idea. We were taking photos in the middle of a street (back road don't worry not a populated street) and I put her in a sit stay and moved back to get the shot and as soon as I bent down and looked through my lens all I see is a sprinting Pieck coming right for me. She was off having the zoom of her life and I just stood there and laughed. I could have gotten mad about just wanting to get the shot and be done but sitting back and watching her have the time of her life was so much better. She was being a dog and sprinting everywhere. (Don't worry I did get some shot and they are posted on our feed lol)
What is your favorite thing about being a dog influencer?
Allen: My absolute favorite thing about being a dog influencer (even though it's still weird to even consider myself that) is the community and people I've met. I have met incredible people while being the human behind Pieck's instagram. I've gotten so much love and support through posting pieck's reactivity it's been overwhelming!
Lastly, what's next for you and your dog on social media? Any exciting plans or projects in the works?
Allen: I just got accepted into the ambassador program for my FAVORITE biothane leash company, Bolder K9, which I recommend for anyone! They are such an amazing company and fantastic people. I also am about to start a collaboration with a small business that I am THRILLED to be a part of and cannot wait to share it with my audience!
