Hop On The 'Pet Influencer' Trend and Spoil Your Dog With These Accessories – Sarasota

Sarasota Magazine
1255 N. Gulfstream Avenue, Suite 101, Sarasota, FL 34236
Phone: (941) 487-1100
Life Is Ruff
By Allison Forsyth June 2, 2022
The products listed here were independently selected by a member of the editorial staff. Should you choose to purchase a product through a link on this page, we may receive an affiliate commission.
We’ve all watched one too many videos of cute dogs on the Internet before, right? When the world feels extra dark, a puppy doing something hilarious is guaranteed to brighten our day.
But did you know that some of these dogs are actually getting paid to be this cute?
That’s right: these social media-famous dogs are called “pet influencers.” Owners become their managers, posting photos and videos for the fans while racking up likes (and dollar signs) in the process. Some dogs even score sponsorships with big-name brands, and others host follower meetups to sell custom merchandise.
Some of our faves are Jiff Pom, an adorable Pomeranian with 9.7 million Instagram followers, and Doug the Pug, who has posed with the likes of Justin Bieber, Billie Eilish and Shakira. Then there’s Maxine (@madmax_fluffyroad), a happy Corgi sharing her life in NYC, and Tucker (@aguyandagolden) a fluffy golden retriever who “decorates” his indoor dog house on camera.
But even if your dog lacks panache (after all, not everyone can be that photogenic), they can still rock all the trendy accessories these famous dogs do. And at the top of the list is a mini backpack made by lululemon.
The backpack wasn’t even made for dogs, but after one video featuring a cute dog model spliced with Madonna’s “Material Girl,” it skyrocketed to viral status. Now, you’re bound to see videos of dogs wearing them on the town while scrolling your social feeds.
And once you’ve bought the doggie backpack, there are plenty of other products you can add to your dog’s accessory closet—from fancy water bottles to couture leashes and gourmet treats. By the end of your shopping spree, your dog will agree with Madonna: “The [owner] with the cold hard cash is always mister right.”
Lululemon City Adventurer Backpack Nano.
Image: Instagram/@lululemon
$34
140 University Town Center Drive, Unit 275, Sarasota, (941) 909-3431
While Lululemon’s marketing team fully admits it didn’t intend for this adorable miniature backpack ($34) to blow up, they’re glad it did. Dog owners have discovered it’s the perfect size to attach to their dog’s harness or leash to fit treats, poo bags or a ball inside. Head out to the park in style. They’ll be the coolest kids around.
Buy Now
Wild One Harness Walk Kit.
Image: wildone.com
$98
PetCo, 131 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, (941) 351-2871; 3800 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 20, Sarasota, (941) 366-6784
Wild One is the trendiest brand when it comes to pet products right now. You’ll see its monochrome harness and leash sets in cool colors all over social media. While you can purchase an entire set ($98) on its website, you can also purchase the harnesses and leashes separately and mix-and-match colors at Petco ($47.99).
Buy Now
Maxbone Signature Carry All Tote.
Image: maxbone.com
$79.99
PetSmart, 6591 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, (941) 536-2988
For the little guys, a ride around in a spacious, cozy bag is a dream. This canvas dog tote from Maxbone ($79.99) has the perfect structure. Cut-outs on the side allow for your dog’s head to peek out, and a removable sherpa bottom is the perfect soft napping spot. A side clip allows you to carry a retractable dog water bowl. Use it as a regular purse or customize it with adhesive alphabet patches. Purchase on Maxbone’s website or at PetSmart.
Buy Now
Maxbone Talon Dog Raincoat.
Image: maxbone.com
$75
120 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, (941) 364-5300
The summer rainy season is upon us in Sarasota. This means you’re pretty much guaranteed to get caught in an afternoon shower at some point. If your dog isn’t a fan of the rain, this adorable yellow raincoat ($75) from Maxbone may do the trick. The anorak-style, water repellant, adjustable coat can be purchased at Saks Fifth Avenue. Other features include a removable hood and pockets, making it not only functional but super stylish. No more wet dog smell!
Buy Now
Warren London Pawdicure Polish Pen.
Image: warrenlondon.com
$8.99
chewy.com
If you really want to go full social media star, give your dog a “paw-dicure” with this polish pen ($8.99) from Warren London. The pens can be ordered in a single color or a bundle on Chewy.com. Give your pooch the spa day they deserve with a nail trim, then paint their nails with this nontoxic, odorless, vibrant paint. You’re going to want to match!
Buy Now
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