Spring is the season of new beginnings, but at DOGUE, it’s also a celebration of timeless classics like dogs, fashion, and film. In this issue, we shine a spotlight on stars who don’t need stylists, filters, or rehearsals. They simply show up, be themselves, and steal the scene—every single time.
Dogs have long played iconic roles in cinematic history, and today’s four-legged stars are the leading characters. From film and TV to sports arenas and fashion runways, dogs are becoming the new face of pop culture. They’re shaping narratives, shifting perspectives, and perhaps more importantly—they remind us that joy, vulnerability, and authenticity never go out of style.
And speaking of style—we’re honored to feature a Hollywood icon and legendary leading man: Don Johnson, alongside his dashing dogs, Rufus and Thunder. Their strong bond is a reminder that true connection isn’t measured in awards or applause, but in the unspoken understanding between human and hound—or a man and his dogs.
As you turn the pages of this issue, you’ll see just how deep that bond runs—not just for Don, but for every star, creator, and dog lover we feature.
From our favorite Spring styles to this season’s shiny red carpet moments, this issue is a tribute to the dogs who inspire us, ground us, and elevate our lives. Here’s to the stars who don't need a script, the style that starts with a wag, and the magic of movies that stay with us long after the credits stop rolling. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show —because the spotlight has never looked this glamorous.
Letter from the Editor OP
THE JOHNSON PACK:
NYC'S PET GALA
NYC's Pets Bring The Community Together To Celebrate A Day Of Fashion
Alana Opens Up About Her 8 Pugs, Her 5 Dog Accounts & Her 40th Bday Shoot
Coverdogs Bring St Patrick's & Easter Styles To The Red Carpet
"MORE IS MORE AND LESS IS A BORE."
— IRIS APFEL
Travel in Style with Noah & Paw
Welcome
The Johnson Pack
FROM HOLLYWOOD TO HOLLYWOOF
The legacy of dogs in film dates back to the earliest days of cinema. In fact, the first true canine film star was Rin Tin Tin, a German Shepherd rescued from a World War I battlefield and brought to Hollywood in the 1920s. He quickly became a box office sensation, starring in over 25 films and often credited with helping to save Warner Bros. from bankruptcy. Not far behind was Strongheart, another German Shepherd who became a silent-era favorite and the first dog to earn star billing.
Lassie leapt into homes and hearts with her 1943 debut. The courageous Rough Collie would go on to appear in multiple films, TV shows, and books, becoming a cultural icon. Lassie also became a symbol of loyalty in the 1940s, with her soft coat and stoic heroism etched into the hearts of generations. Later came Beethoven, Hooch, Marley, and more—dogs who didn’t ust appear in films, but who defined them. They weren’t props. They were emotional anchors, silent narrators, and often, the soul of the story.
Then came Ben i, the scrappy, lovable mutt who charmed audiences in the 1970s and 80s. These dogs didn’t ust appear on screen—they drove the narrative and commanded emotional depth.
And dogs aren’t ust stars in American cinema. Japan’s “Hachikō Monogatari” (1987) and its U.S. remake “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” (2009) told the deeply emotional true story of a loyal Akita who waited years for his deceased owner,—capturing hearts around the world and cementing Hachikō as a symbol of devotion.
In France, the beloved "Belle et Sébastien" franchise has touched generations. Even Bollywood has had its share of dog heroes in films like "Entertainment" and "Teri Meherbaniyan." These dogs resonated with something deeply human: vulnerability, devotion, presence. In many cases, they stole scenes by doing what they do best—- being absolutely, unapologetically themselves.
Today, dogs are not ust part of the cinematic landscape—they’re shaping it. They're getting lead roles, and they're stealing scenes.
In The Friend, the performance of Bing was so heartbreakingly raw, critics openly campaigned for a posthumous acting award.
In Anatomy of a Fall, a gripping courtroom drama, the canine actor Messi emerged as a silent force of emotional gravity—earning the Palm Dog at Cannes and global acclaim.
In Disney's new live-action remake of “Lilo & Stitch”, Dale, the surfing Frenchie from Oahu makes a splash, on the big screen, literally.
And in Black Mirror, "Hotel Reverie", Wicket, a pintsized Yorkie plays a pivotal role in the narrative's unfolding.
These performances aren’t gimmicks. They’re layered, emotionally intelligent, and essential to storytelling. Hollywood has taken note. So has Cannes. And so has DOGUE.
WICKET: THE BREAKOUT STAR OF BLACK MIRROR’S MOST MIND-BENDING EPISODE
Elaine Claxton as Mrs. Roban and Wicket as BonBon
Photo by Nick Wall
In the world of Black Mirror, technology gets weird, reality bends, and no one is safe from a plot twist—not even the dog. In the seventh season’s viral standout episode, Hotel Reverie, the twist isn't ust in the sci-fi script. It’s in the casting. Meet Wicket, a two-year-old Brussels Griffon who ust stole the episode—and our hearts.
With his soulful eyes, expressive face, and uncanny ability to do tricks on cue, Wicket isn't ust adorable—he’s a scenestealer. Cast by director Haolu Wang (a fellow Grif fon enthusiast), Wicket filmed his role when he was ust a year old. And while the episode spirals into surreal dimensions with Hollywood star Brandy Friday, played by Issa Rae, Wicket remains the emotional anchor of the story.
"One of the most heartwarming moments happened completely unscripted,” his mom shares. “During a quiet scene with Elaine Claxton, Wicket gently placed his paw in her hand (which he does when he likes someone) and she held i t through the whole take. It was very adorable." It was the kind of moment that reminded everyone on set: sometimes, the grandest performance comes from the smallest actor with the biggest heart.
Wicket got his start rolling himself into a blanket like a burrito, and now he’s trained in a range of tricks—including his star move in Hotel Reverie. When he’s not serving emotional depth on camera, you’ll find him by the snack table, helping with cleanup duties or charming cast and crew alike.
Already making waves with commercials for Hilton Hotels (yes, with Paris Hilton herself) and Knorr, Wicket is ust getting started. He’s got a few exciting gigs lined up, and he's mingling with top-tier talent—his besties include Schnitzel and Nico, the dogs who played Frodo in "A Quiet Place: Day One."
But beyond the buzz, Wicket’s rise is shining a lig ht on his beloved breed. Brussels Griffons are still under-the-radar, but Wicket is on a mission to change that.
“They’re loyal, smart, sensitive, and full of personality,” his human says. “Once a Griff bonds with you, they’re yours for life.”
With a growing résumé, natural charisma, and a paw firmly in Hollywood’s door, Wicket is proof that the future of television might ust belong to the dogs.
Catch Wicket in Black Mirror: Hotel Reverie, streaming now on Netflix—and prepare to fall in love. Want more Wicket? Follow him on Instagram @sir.wicket for more behind-thescenes cuteness.
Te Jo nson Pack
Exclusive DOGUE Spring Feature
With a career spanning ore than five decades, Don Johnson is a true Hollywood icon. Fro defining cool in Mia i Vice to stealing scenes in Nash Bridges, Django Unchained, Knives Out, and Watch en, Johnson has brought depth, swagger, and a s irk to every screen he’s graced. But beyond the red carpets and cult classics, like A Boy and his Dog, Johnson’s greatest roles ay be the ones he plays at ho e—as a devoted father, and dog dad.
In an exclusive with DOGUE, the legendary actor invites us behind the scenes and into the backyard to eet his dear dog co panions who’ve turned his life into a daily adventure.
MEET RUFUS JOHNSON
I ported fro Ger any by a world-renowned dog trainer, Rufus is pure canine cool. “He lived with his dog o until he was a young adult,” Kelley, Don’s wife shares. “And I think it ade a huge i pact. He’s incredibly kind and gentle—but when he’s in protection ode, he’s all business.” Rufus speaks Ger an, loves ocean swi s, and has a refined palate for high-end cookies. His best friend is Lucky, a fellow Ger an Shepherd who joins hi on “Dog Pack” outings led by Montecito’s own canine whisperer, Anthony Sorosky of DogWatch.
MEET THUNDER JOHNSON
If Rufus is the action hero, Thunder is the lovable rogue. Adopted at nine weeks, Thunder quickly beca e a neighborhood icon—and serial escape artist.
“For ost of his life, he ran away every day,” Kelley says with a laugh. “We’d get calls saying he was on so eone’s couch, in their pool… even in their bed.”
One neighbor saved Don’s nu ber in her phone under the na e “Thunder.” She didn’t even know his real na e—just the dog’s.
Now 12, Thunder is a se i-retired entertainer with a flair for dra a. He watches TV obsessively, knows over ten tricks, and barks ferociously at the Progressive Insurance co ercials.
“That co ercial drives hi crazy,” Kelley says.
He has a girlfriend na ed Chanel, a co unity fanbase, and a soft spot for snacks. In fact, he responds to the na e “Cookie” faster than “Thunder.”
But, despite slowing down, he still joins the fa ily for sunset beach walks—though his pack adventure days are behind hi .
Don’s two dogs couldn’t be ore different. On one paw, there’s Thunder, a 12 year old Jack Russell Parsons terrier with the attitude of a rock star and the co edic ti ing of a sitco legend. On the other paw? A 3 year old Rufus Von Arlett, a sleek, all-black, 80-pound Ger an Shepherd born in Ger any, trained in Schutzhund, and naturally equipped for stardo and security. Together, Rufus and Thunder are yin and yang: action and co edy, protector and prankster. Life with the Johnsons is full of sunshine, snacks, and the occasional lizard chase, fro what we could gather. With a sprawling backyard, a loving ho e, and each other, one thing is certain— these pups are living the drea : Hollywood style!
Speaking of style, for the DOGUE photoshoot, we selected a range of vibrant, hand- ade, pre iu silk bow ties fro Furdrobe, adding a refined touch of elegance, sophistication, and playful gla our to our shoot.
For the second look, we leaned into high fashion with gilded accessories in true Fursace style— bold, luxe, and unapologetically chic. Under the California sun, Rufus’ glossy black coat shi ered like onyx, while the gold accents offered a striking contrast that radiated confidence and couture. {Continued on p.38}
A Man & His Dogs
Exclusive DOGUE Spring Feature
For Rufus’ third look, we e braced the soft ro ance of springti e florals—a delicate faux-flower crown perfectly poised against the lush greenery of the backyard garden. Shades of blush pink and crea y white nestled into verdant green leaves created a whi sical contrast to Rufus’ inky black coat, turning this powerful protector into a poetic vision of canine grace.
With sunlight dancing off his fur and petals crowning his noble head, Rufus gave us a look that was less guard dog, ore garden use.
As the ca eras clicked and the sun dipped behind the Montecito hills, it was clear that char runs in the fa ily.
"We’ve had any dogs in our lives,” Don says. “Rufus is our fourth Ger an Shepherd, and Thunder is our third Jack Russell. So we clearly have a type—or two.”
The Johnsons’ dog legacy runs deep. Don grew up with dogs on his fa ily’s Missouri far . But his bond with dogs deepened during the fil ing of "A Boy and His Dog", a provocative sci-fi cult classic, with a Poolie-sheepdog ix, as Don’s costar.
"We had a wonderful bond,” he says of his canine co-star. “It was hard to say goodbye when the fil wrapped.”
DOGUE: Was it challenging perfor ing alongside a dog in such a surreal, post-apocalyptic world?
Don: “The dog doesn’t actually talk—now that surprised e, because in the script, he had dialogue.”
DOGUE: Was it difficult to play that co plex role of a an in that raw, the end of the world, utopian setting?
Don: “I don’t believe in bad people—just bad actions. Usually, those actions are childhood trau as playing out in adult situations. Nobody is onedi ensional. We’re co plex people with ultidi ensional reasons for behaving the way we do. Love is the power, and forgiveness is a fantastic thing.”
DOGUE: Other than the two Best Actor awards that you've won for this role, did working on this fil change your life, in any way?
Don: "It was on that particular set that I realized that I could ake ovies.
And I aintain that ovies— being in the ovies, and seeing ovies, and sharing this experience together is a healing experience— for e and for you. Because, when we share these hu an o ents together, it is ore powerful as you know than pretty uch anything that you do in your life. I ean, ovies affect e like the birth of a child, or like the wedding days, that I’ve had… When you walk out of a theater and you resonate, and you’re responding to a particular perfor ance or story line, there’s an exchange that is ade, and that’s the joy and the love that I have about aking ovies."
The Johnson Pack re inds us that in a world full of flash and fa e, it’s the real connections that shine brightest—like the one between a an and his dogs.
It is clear that Thunder and Rufus bring uch ore than just co edy and security to the Johnson household. They also bring heart, loyalty, and a bond no Hollywood script could ever anufacture. Spending the afternoon with Don, Kelley, and their unforgettable four-legged stars for this exclusive was a real treat.
Catch Don in "Doctor Odyssey" now strea ing on Hulu.
10 FACTS ABOUT RUFUS
1. Fluent in German
Rufus was born and trained in Germany. His full name is Rufus Von Arlett.
2. Feline Skeptic
He isn’t a big fan of cats.
3. Lover, Not a Fighter
Despite his protection training, Rufus gets along with every dog— except the two cheeky Aussies next door who love to taunt him from behind a fence.
4. Best Friend Goals
His canine BFF is Lucky, a fellow German Shepherd who joins him on epic Dog Pack hikes.
5. Human Bestie Status
His favorite human (besides Don) is Anthony Sorosky of Montecito DogWatch, his dog pack guru and adventure coordinator.
6. The Security Chief
After every outing, Rufus does a full patrol of the property—serious patrol vibes, no shortcuts.
7. Ocean Enthusiast
Rufus lives for swimming in the ocean. Waves? No problem. Surf’s always up for Rufus!
8. Sprinkler Obsessed
He’s never met a sprinkler he didn’t fall madly in love with.
9. Always On Duty
You won’t catch him napping during the day—he’s too busy chasing birds, patrolling, or bossing the lizards around.
10. Cookie Monster
Rufus is a selective eater… unless it’s a cookie. Then he’s all in!
10 FACTS ABOUT THUNDER
1. Escape Artist Extraordinaire
For most of his life, Thunder had a daily ritual: running away. Pool parties, couch naps, sleepovers—you name it, he crashed it.
2. TV Addict
Thunder is a full-on screen king. He watches religiously and even has opinions. (More on that below…)
3. Public Enemy No. 1
He cannot stand the Progressive commercial. Every time that commercial shows up, Thunder unleashes chaos.
4. The Opportunist
He’ll eat your meal, his meal, and anyone else’s if you're not watching. Bonus points if you call it a "cookie."
5. Loverboy with a Crush
He has a girlfriend named Chanel. Yes, she’s fabulous. No, he’s not great at sharing toys.
6. Part-Time Cat Whisperer
He’s sweet with the family cats—Echo and Kitty—but only if Rufus isn’t watching.
7. Rideshare Icon
Thunder has a “hop in any car with any family” policy. Half the town has driven him home at least once.
8. Trick King
He knows over ten tricks—and he’s not above performing them in exchange for snacks, or applause.
9. Locally Famous
He’s so well-known in the neighborhood that one neighbor entered Don’s phone number into her phone under “Thunder.”
10. Name? What Name?
Thunder responds faster to “Cookie” than to “Thunder.” Which, to be fair, says everything about Thunder.
NYC'S PET GALA 2025
NYC Pups Strut the Red Carpet in Honor of Vogue’s Met Gala. On Monday, May 5th, New York City’s most fashionable pups gathered at the Bust of Sylvette Plaza to celebrate the spirit of the Met Gala in style. The red carpet event, organized by NYC Faculty Housing, transformed the plaza into a glamorous, pet-friendly affair that turned heads and wagged tails. From couture collars to designer doggy ensembles, the pups brought high fashion and heart to the city in a joyful celebration. Photos by Carmen Gonzalez. @nycstreetdogs.
NYC'S PET GALA 2025
The event featured a variety of charming experiences for both pets and their humans, including a vibrant photo booth, custom pet caricatures, and a special meet-and-greet preview with some of the city’s most adorable adoptable animals. Attendees also enjoyed complimentary professional portraits courtesy of NYC’s own “Pet Pawtographer,” Carmen Gonzalez. @nycstreetdogs.
Pug mom @pugmommadness
Photos: @notariusphotography
THIS IS FORTY!
Forty is t e new t irty, and t irty is t e new twenty and w at does t at mean, exactly? As long as you ave dogs, you'll stay young. Dogs are like c ildren. We stay young just by association. Wit eig t pugs in er care (yes, eig t!) and five of t em running t eir own social media accounts (managed by Alana), it’s safe to say t is is a ouse old powered by fur babies, dog love, and lots of creativity.
On Instagram, eac pug as a unique username, nickname, and an unmistakable sense of style. Among t e star-studded lineup are: Hanna Banana Pants, Miss Apricot Potato Pants, Sir C uckie C eeseball, Penny Pug t e Greeter, and S eldon t e Squis y face Hero. Eac one brings t eir own flair, fanbase, and fabulousness.
T is year, Alana celebrated er Birt day wit a dog p otos oot t at caug t our eye. For us, it's more t an just t e matc ing outfits, and t e gorgeous backdrop of t e snowy forest. It's a moment in time captured so beautifully. A perfect mix of glam and nature. We reac ed out to Alana to learn about t e life be ind t e s oot, and t e dogs w o rule er world.
"T is snowy p otos oot was all about aving fun and bringing t e eat! We wore red to pop against t e icy backdrop—symbolizing love, power, and our bold fire sign energy."
Pug Mom Celebrates 40 in Style!
"T e contrast between t e cold snow and our fiery vibes made it even more magical. And of course, t e pugs broug t t eir own brand of adorable c aos, as always!”
W en did you become a dog mom?
"I became a dog mom 3/5/2011 to Prince Harry Harrison. He was t e best dog in t e entire world. Harrison was a Lab and German s ep erd mix, and my Prince. Harrison was my protector and e made me laug daily. He protected me from bears, moose, and bad boyfriends. We went on so many ikes toget er... Sadly, e passed way too early."
Were you always a pug lover? W at attracted you to t is breed, in particular?
"My mom got a pug, Bosco, from a s elter on t e i-line in Montana. T at’s w at turned us all onto pugs. Bosco was so ilarious. A little comedian in a Pug body. I love Pugs because t ey are t e best companions. Super smart (most). And love to go on any adventure. Eac as t eir own personality and quirks and it’s fun to see t is come to lig t!"
In addition to being a pug momager, Alana is also a mental ealt t erapist w o brings er dogs to work. You can find Alana on Instagram @pugmommadness.
Coverdogs Bring Their A-Game to Every Red Carpet
The Coverdogs rolled out the red carpet to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Easter in true style. Whisper, Koyote, Ingrid, Prim, Bianca, Nayla, Minnie, Mocha, Teddy, and Kiwi made dazzling appearances. Catch the full guest list and all the glam, over at @coverdogs!
If you’ve ever been to an NBA game and found yourself gasping during halftime, chances are you’ve seen them. Not the mascots or the kiss cam, but the electrifying spectacle that is Christian & Scooby.
Picture this: Christian Stoinev balanced effortlessly on one hand, four feet above the ground, rotating like a human gyroscope. And atop his back? An eightpound Golden Chihuahua named Milo, waving to the crowd like he owns the arena. Spoiler alert: he does.
It’s a show that stuns and charms in equal measure, and DOGUE had the fabulous pleasure of sitting down with Christian— America’s most athletic dog dad—to talk halftime stardom, circus roots, and the stylish pup behind the name Scooby.
DOGUE: So, who exactly is Scooby? Or should we say Scoobies?
Christian: “Scooby is actually the stage name. It all began with my original Chihuahua, who was indeed named Scooby. Since then, Percy took over as ‘Scooby,’ and now Milo has taken on the role. Milo is currently six years old, and Percy is now retired at the age of twelve. They all learn at a different pace, but Milo picked up his basketball tricks pretty early. I’d say it took him about two years to learn most, if not all, of his routines.”
Then, I randomly found Milo on Craigslist! They were looking to rehome him at eight weeks old. Once I met Milo, it was love at first sight.”
Since graduating from Illinois State in 2013 and finishing in the top 12 on America’s Got Talent, Christian and Scooby have appeared in every NBA arena, except Miami’s. They’ve even wowed audiences on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.
Their hand-balancing act has become a nationally beloved halftime performance across NBA and college basketball arenas for the past 12 years. It’s a dream come true for Stoinev, a fifth-generation circus performer and lifelong sports fanatic.
“Getting to be on Germany’s Got Talent was super awesome! We actually received a Golden Buzzer, which put us straight into the finals.”
In addition to Milo’s talent, he is also incredibly stylish. The eight-pound star brings as much fashion to the court as he does charisma. With custom collars that match Christian’s outfits and cut-out jerseys made just for him, Milo is never underdressed for showtime.
With the NBA Playoffs heating up, expect to see more of this powerhouse pair lighting up arenas, and hearts, around the world.
DOGUE: How did Milo come into your life?
Christian: “Percy was the main Scooby at the time, and we were starting to perform quite a lot, so I was already thinking about finding another Chihuahua to train.
Follow their journey on Instagram: @castoinev
Breed Highlight: German Shepherd
The German Shepherd: Hollywood Movie I on
Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance, German Shepherds are one of the most beloved and ic onic dog breeds in the world, not just in Hollywood. Origina lly bred in Germany in the late 19th century, this breed quickly earned a reputation for its working prowess, becoming a favorite among police, military, and service dog units worldwide.
German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs with a strong, muscular build. Their body is slightly longer than it is tall, contributing to their agility and speed. They typically have a noble and confident expression, with erect ears, a long b ushy tail, and a gait that’s smooth and purposeful. The breed’s thic k double coat usually comes in colors such as black and tan, sabl e, or all-black, and they require regular grooming to maintain their healthy appearance.
Size, Height, and Weight
Height: Males stand between 24–26 inches (60–65 cm), and females range from 22–24 inches (55–60 cm). Males w eigh between 65–90 lbs (30–40 kg), while females typically weigh between 50–70 lbs (22–32 kg).
Despite their commanding presence, German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and gentleness with family. They thrive when given a sense of purpose and respond best to firm, consistent training.
BREED OVERVIEW
GROUP: Herding Group
HEIGHT: 22 to 26 inches
WEIGHT: 50 - 90 lbs
COAT: Short, dense, water-resistant double coat
COLOR: black and tan, sable, all black, black and red, bi-color and white
Origins & Lega y
The German Shepherd breed was officially standardized in 1899 by Max von Stephanitz, a visionary German cavalry officer with one mission: to develop the ultimate working dog. He was captivated by the intelligence, strength, and discipline of native herding dogs in Germany. By refining and selectively breeding these dogs, von Stephanitz shaped what would become one of the most recognizable and respected breeds in the world—the modern German Shepherd.
Originally bred for herding sheep and guarding flocks from predators, German Shepherds quickly demonstrated that their talents stretched far beyond the pasture. Their high intelligence, keen decision-making abilities, and steadfast loyalty made them naturals for complex working roles. During World War I and II, they served valiantly on the battlefield—delivering messages, detecting mines, and aiding wounded soldiers. Their courage and reliability during wartime earned them global admiration and firmly established their reputation as true canine heroes.
Beyond their wartime roles, German Shepherds continued to thrive in diverse areas. Their exceptional trainability and eagerness to work have made them standouts in law enforcement, search and rescue, and disability assistance. With proper training, they excel as guide dogs, therapy animals, and even as elite competitors in agility, obedience, and tracking trials.
Their strong work ethic, coupled with a steady temperament, makes them adaptable to almost any task that requires focus, precision, and heart. In the home, German Shepherds are more than just working dogs—they’re fiercely loyal companions. Known for their protective instincts and deep emotional bonds with their families, they are naturally alert and vigilant, always ready to step up when needed. While their guarding nature can make them cautious around strangers, early and consistent socialization ensures they grow into confident and welladjusted pets. They are gentle with children, responsive to training, and happiest when given a job or purpose—even if that’s just being a beloved member of the family.
Throughout history, the German Shepherd has also left its paw print on pop culture. One of the earliest and most enduring examples is Rin Tin Tin, a German Shepherd rescued from a World War I battlefield who went on to become a Hollywood legend in the 1920s. Not long after, Strongheart became another major canine film star, further proving that German Shepherds could capture hearts both on and off the screen. Today, their presence in global K-9 units—whether patrolling city streets, sniffing out contraband, or protecting highsecurity events—continues to reinforce their unmatched versatility and bravery.
But German Shepherds don’t need a uniform or a camera to shine. They're loyal therapy dogs, graceful show champions, and affectionate companions. Their beauty is matched by brains and heart, making them one of the most complete breeds in the canine kingdom. Their double coat—dense, water-resistant, and weatherproof—adds to their rugged resilience, whether braving harsh elements or curling up indoors.
Whether it’s their unmatched loyalty, brilliance, or beauty, the German Shepherd continues to reign as a true icon in the dog world—and in the pages of DOGUE.
The Black German Shepherd: A Mystical Creature
Among the breed’s color variations, the Black German Shepherd stands out as particularly mesmerizing. With their rich, glossy black coats and regal stature, they seem to carry an air of mystery. Though they possess all the same physical and temperamental traits as the standard-colored German Shepherd, their unique appearance adds a rare and captivating elegance. Enthusiasts often describe them as mystical—powerful, graceful, and undeniably photogenic.
Whether herding sheep in alpine fields, serving on the front lines, starring in cinema, or simply lying loyally at your feet, the German Shepherd is the embodiment of devotion and strength. Their legacy isn’t just one of performance—it’s a legacy of partnership, courage, and unshakable heart.
Turn Your Compassion into Action
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) was the first humane society to be established in North America and is, today, one of the largest in the world.
Our organization was founded on the belief that animals are entitled to kind and respectful treatment at the hands of humans and must be protected under the law. Headquartered in New York City, the ASPCA maintains a strong local presence, and with programs that extend our anti-cruelty mission across the country, we are recognized as a national animal welfare organization. We are a privately funded 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, and are proud to boast more than 2 million supporters across the country. The ASPCA’s mission is “to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States.”
We Are Their Voice
"Helping vulnerable animals and keeping pets in safe and loving homes requires a commitment from all of us—advocates, pet owners, shelters, leaders, and entire communities. When we work together under a common cause, we’re both saving lives and elevating our society and its laws to ensure cruelty victims and other at-risk animals receive the protection and care they deserve."
This issue is dedicated to the loving memory of Pepper Patricola who brought endless oy and love to her mom Susan.
