Dog Mom Vibes
Life with T’Challa, Vibranium & Shuri
Baby Vibes and T in Central Park : Photo Credit Silvia Paveri
It may not seem like it, but I’m actually a very introverted person. I’m shy, nervous, and anxious more often than not. Lately, in social settings, I’ve been joking that I’m in my “dog mom era,” and then I give people about three chances to escape before I drag them fully into my dog-obsessed world.
At first, it was self-deprecating humor. A way to get ahead of the possibility that someone might roll their eyes or quietly label me a “crazy dog lady.” If I make fun of myself first, you can’t really hurt me with it, right? (That’s a problem for my therapist, not you kind reader LOL!!)
But the more I sit with it, the more I realize I actually just want people to understand what I mean when I say I’m in this chapter of my life. Not in a defensive way. Just… honestly.
Why does my life revolve around my dogs?
Me & T’Challa at his successfully passed UDC Adult Temperament Test hosted by 603 Misfit Doberman Club : Photo Credit Morgan Karanasios
So what does it mean to be in my dog mom era?
Not the version I see going viral on social media.
Not the version measured by matching outfits, expensive gear, or perfectly curated homes with flawlessly edited content.
Not the version that assumes unlimited expendable income.
But my version. (Nothing wrong with those versions because sometimes I fit in that category see photo below lol!)
Partnership with Pawsbury Lane
I love when the boys match, so I was very excited to match with them.
It’s a worthwhile question for anyone to ask themselves. For me, this season of my life is about intention. It’s about presence. It’s about choosing to fully experience the relationship I have with my dogs instead of rushing through it or telling myself I’ll appreciate it “later.”
I don’t let myself say “later” anymore — because I may not have that opportunity.
That mindset has changed how I show up with my dogs. I’ve found myself getting more involved in various experiences — not because I think that’s what a good dog mom is supposed to do, and not because it’s what I see other people doing, but because I genuinely want to try everything with them.
This era is fueled by curiosity.
What do they love?
What do I love?
What strengthens our bond?
T’Challa in action during his UDC Adult Temperament Test hosted by 603 Misfit Doberman Club : Photo Credit Morgan Karanasios
Training, enrichment, and structured work have become a huge part of our lives — not because I’m chasing titles or validation, but because training is a form of communication and fulfillment. Doberman’s were bred for athleticism, but they are very intelligent and dog sports are a great way to provide both physical and mental stimulation. This versatility requires regular engagement and part of that is learning how to listen to the messages my dogs give me and reading their body language and trying to get on the same page. Enrichment isn’t “extra.” It’s mental health. It’s confidence building. It’s a must every day in some way. We work towards titles because we want to achieve goals and benchmark against the achievements of our dogs based on the standards expected from their breed. Every sport we participate in gives T’Challa, Vibes & Shuri a chance to learn and problem solve. I want to learn as much as I can to make sure they are living their very best lives.
[I periodically post links to supplements that support focus, recovery and various training tools that I use on a daily basis. I’m very intentional with what I choose, and I won’t recommend something that I don’t personally own and use. If you choose to shop through links on our site it supports us without any additional burden to you.]
Dobie Cuddles
This is probably my favorite moment of each day - being T’s pillow
I don’t believe there’s one right way to be a good dog parent. Some families hike every weekend. Some travel constantly. Some thrive on quiet routines and calm days at home. All of that is valid. Whatever happy moment you cherish with your dogs — that’s the one worth prioritizing.
My schedule doesn’t always allow me to hike or travel as much as I’d like. That doesn’t make me less invested or less loving. It just means my relationship with my dogs looks different — and that’s okay.
My 9–5 is for my dogs. How else am I supposed to buy them treats? LOL!!
I do my best to fold them into my day wherever I can: mid-day walks when possible, ending my workday early enough to protect our evening walk and training time. I can always come back to work later. I’ve always believed that people find time for what they love. When someone says they don’t have time, I can’t help but wonder if they truly have zero time — or if it just isn’t a priority.
My dog mom era is about creating memories and strengthening my bond with my dogs in ways that are meaningful for them. I want to give them every opportunity to experience happiness — while also remembering that sometimes all they really need is a walk. Or a few minutes of focused attention. Or a quiet moment together.
You don’t have to go all out.
You don’t have to post viral videos.
You don’t have to prove anything.
You can just have the relationship.
New Year Bandana and Festive Toppl
Bandana : Bunch of Bandanas : Code TCHALLA15
For me, that also looks like making homemade treats, rotating bandanas, celebrating holidays, and creating little traditions — not because those things define a good dog mom, but because I enjoy them. They help me slow down. They help me mark time. They turn ordinary days into memories.
The most important thing is presence.
Being here.
Paying attention.
Choosing now instead of someday.
That’s what my dog mom era means to me.
Our lowkey accidental family Christmas picture we took in the middle of one of our hikes
