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 Kevin (Willow Lee'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?
Lee: We were never very active on our personal social media accounts. Once we brought Willow home, we started posting pictures here and there, but we were mostly following other dog accounts for tips about raising a pup. Over time, our social media friends became the most valuable resource and supportive community. People began to message us the questions they had, especially questions about caring for a doodle! Now we love to share our experiences, pro tips about raising a puppy for the first time, and cute photos! Willow’s funny personality is easy to capture and really fun to share!
What do you think sets your dog apart from other dogs on social media? What makes them unique or particularly interesting to your followers?
Lee: Willow is not the most athletic or Instagram photo ready dog out there. We are first time puppy owners, so all of us are trying to figure out how to best communicate with one another. During this process, we did notice that she is a funny dog, with all of her doodle expressions! Her extra long eyelashes are a cherry on top!
How do you come up with ideas for your dog's posts and content? Do you have a specific creative process?
Lee: I, as many dog owners out there, have an endless amount of raw content (photos and videos) on my phone! It’s pretty easy to find photos to post or a video if I come across a funny or appropriate audio. I think that our posts are relatable because they are our experiences as dog owner, things that Willow does that make us laugh, and random questions we have about her questionable behaviors!
Have you ever faced any challenges or negativity on social media, and how have you dealt with it?
Lee: We haven’t had much negativity on social media. Occasionally we have people advising us to do things a certain way, but so far it’s been pleasant. I do try to limit my social media time because once we started her Instagram, I spend way more time on my phone!
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own dog influencer account or share their dog on social media?
Lee: I would say, just start posting, even if it’s not perfect! I think it’s more effective (and probably authentic) to post regularly than to post perfect videos occasionally. For us, it was Willow’s ungroomed scruffy face that people related to, rather than her being at the perfect location with the perfect pose.
How has your dog influenced your life outside of social media?
Lee: Willow has allowed us to visit places we never imagined going to by ourselves, but she makes us want to adventure out and enjoy the moment as it comes. Seeing her grow so quickly makes us realize how fast life goes by. Willow taught has to appreciate the present and make the most out the time we have together. Who knew walks can be so fun!
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?
Lee: When Willow was a little pup, she was learning how to “leave it.” She was doing so well we decided to take her to an agility class where the other dogs get to show off their tricks. We decided to show everyone how good she was at “leave it,” so when the time came, we had our phones out and started recording, as soon as we took a step back, she grabbed all her treats.
What is your favorite thing about being a dog influencer?
Lee: The community is so helpful and some genuinely care for Willow! We also want to share as many fun and cute moments with all those who wish to journey alongside us! It truly makes us happy when people leave lovely comments about Willow or people would reach out to us to represent their products/brand because they saw how cute she is!
Lastly, what's next for you and your dog on social media? Any exciting plans or projects in the works?
Lee: We want to eventually take a road trip somewhere and document our adventures together! We also want to start some sort of affiliate program and share some of the amazing products that work for Willow and hopefully to others as well.