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 Alyssa (Zeus'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?
Redoble: It all started when I noticed Zeus and his quirks as a puppy. Even though I had a family dog growing up, he was my first dog that I got on my own with my partner and actually paid attention to caring for him and took it seriously of being a “Dog Mom.” Zeus from the start, was very independent and learned really quickly when it came to training. He learned to ring the bell to go potty at just 6 months old! I wish I documented his journey earlier from when he was a puppy, but it’s never too late to start! As he grew older, so did his ears but they also grew upright and stayed pointed. It was the most peculiar and unique thing I’ve seen in his breed, and so that’s when the 1000+ pictures and videos in my camera roll started. He also shined his spunky personality with people and other dog friends. I didn’t know much about the pitbull/bully breed before I got Zeus, but he was far from the negative stigma people had on them. This is what inspired me to document our journey together, showing the world that a dog is as good as its owner, not the breed! To help advocate for the pitbull and bully breed.
What do you think sets your dog apart from other dogs on social media? What makes them unique or particularly interesting to your followers?
Redoble:Zeus is very unique in his own way because he’s the only dog I know that would drool over fruits and veggies over anything else. Once he hears me in the kitchen chopping something on the cutting board, you see him right next to me. He can smell an orange being peeled from a mile away and he will come running to you! You can see on his social media that he loves fruits and veggies, which is not very common in dogs-alike.
How do you come up with ideas for your dog's posts and content? Do you have a specific creative process?
Redoble: I try to keep up with various social media trends to help bring in more and new traction to Zeus’s social media page. Such as participating in viral and trending Instagram reels or TikTok videos. But my main goal is to stay true to showcasing who Zeus really is, what he’s like at home, in the outdoors, with people, other dogs, etc. I also try to bring him to pet-friendly areas whether it’s hiking, the beach, restaurants, cafes, or stores to help socialize him, train, and document our time there. I like to plan ahead an itinerary if we are going to a certain destination and create my art around that (i.e. where and how to shoot pictures and videos).
Have you ever faced any challenges or negativity on social media, and how have you dealt with it?
Redoble: I personally have not yet faced or dealt with any negativity on social media. I am happy to be a part of a loving and supportive dog community online. Although I have dealt with some negativity in person on walks or having Zeus with me in public areas. Where people assume that Zeus is “dangerous”. So that’s when I take initiative in educating them about owning a dog and properly training and handling one, despite the breed.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own dog influencer account or share their dog on social media?
Redoble: Just start taking pictures and videos! Look at your favorite pet influencers social media platforms and get inspired. Research on current trends to help bring attention to your dog’s social media. And also, connect with others whether in person or on social media! Dog-lovers alike are the most encouraging and positive people we’ve met, and we found some great friends through the power of social media. The number of followers and likes shouldn’t be the main motive. Try to post daily and you’ll see your dog’s social media account grow!
How has your dog influenced your life outside of social media?
Redoble: Zeus has been with me through the ups and downs of my life. He is the main reason I am confident and strong-minded. Although he is my emotional support animal, he really does his job in comforting me when I need it. He helped me build character and responsibility. Also, he helped me get of my shell, experience new places and adventures, and connect with people in my community. Because of Zeus, I started fostering last summer 2023. We found out Zeus is a great foster brother and I don’t have to do much! Since Zeus is very bold and self-assertive, yet caring and respectful, he leads the way in showing the ropes of how to “dog” for our fosters. He keeps them entertained and teaches them the basics, while being patient. Not only does he enjoy it, but I do too! We love helping our local animal shelters and rescues!
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?
Redoble: The most memorable adventure I had with Zeus was on one of our roadtrips we took to Oregon to visit my sister. My sister has 2 dogs and Zeus loves playing with his cousins. They also lived near a lake that time, so we decided to take a day trip out there with all the dogs and have some fun! It was Zeus’s first time swimming in open water so we bought him a life vest. I was unsure how this trip was going to play out but I knew Zeus loved the water because he always had a kiddie pool in the backyard at our house to play in. There was no doubt he wouldn’t have fun. In fact he was extremely excited and had TOO MUCH FUN and started splashing away, down the river! His recall was non-existent at that time and he was barking and chomping at his own splashes, not hearing anyone call out his name. I was terrified for a minute thinking we’d lose him along the way. But thankfully my sister’s boyfriend was able to swim fast enough after him to grab a hold of Zeus and steer him back. Zeus had no idea and kept splashing in the water having the time of his life.
What is your favorite thing about being a dog influencer?
Redoble: My favorite thing about being a dog influencer is advocating for the pitbull and bully breed. I believe we make an impact on shining light onto the dog community. I also enjoy meeting new dog parents-alike who share the same interests. Also, since I myself am a graduate student in Nutrition and Dietetics, with an interest in canine nutrition and functional medicine, I also get to share with others my knowledge and experiences with nutrition and holistic health in relation to dogs!
Lastly, what's next for you and your dog on social media? Any exciting plans or projects in the works?
Redoble: This summer we will be fostering again, so stay tuned for our adventures and find out who will be Zeus’s next foster sibling! We are also hoping to collaborate with more small businesses as well. Keep a look out on possible amazing deals and discount codes!
