Mayor Dogs
In several small towns, dogs have been “elected” mayors — often as part of charity events or community traditions. These pups serve as mascots of goodwill, greeting tourists and making civic life a little fuzzier.
Fun fact: Mayor Max of Idyllwild, California, served three terms and was beloved by the entire town.
Social Media Influencers 📸🐾
Some dogs have millions of followers on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. From modeling sweaters to starring in viral videos, influencer pups can even make a living (in treats and sponsorships).
Fun fact: Doug the Pug has over 3 million Instagram followers and has been in music videos!
You can check out Doug the Pug on instagram here.
Runway Rovers 👗🐕
Dogs sometimes strut their stuff at pet fashion shows or even alongside human models on big stages. Their natural charm and wagging tails make them crowd favorites.
Fun fact: Some New York Fashion Week shows have featured dogs dressed in haute couture outfits.
Disease Detectors
With their super-sniffing skills, some dogs are trained to detect diseases like cancer, diabetes, or even COVID-19. Their noses can sense changes at a molecular level — long before machines can.
Fun fact: Dogs can detect some scents at parts per trillion — the equivalent of finding a single drop of liquid in 20 Olympic swimming pools.
Cart Pullers & Delivery Dogs 🛒
Before modern delivery trucks, strong breeds like Newfoundlands and Bernese Mountain Dogs were used to pull carts of milk, goods, and even children. Some communities still host carting competitions today.
Fun fact: In Switzerland, Bernese Mountain Dogs were once nicknamed “the farmer’s little helper.”
Turnspit Dogs 🔥🍖
In the 16th–19th centuries, small dogs called Turnspit Dogs ran on wheels that rotated meat over the fire. It was tough work, and thankfully modern ovens put an end to it.
Fun fact: They were sometimes nicknamed “kitchen dogs.”
Tennis Ball Retrievers 🎾🐕
At some tennis tournaments, dogs have been trained to act as ball retrievers. They dash across the court with speed and precision — and probably wish they got to keep the balls!
Fun fact: In 2016, dogs acted as ball boys at the Brazilian Open in São Paulo.
Surfing Dogs
Some adventurous dogs hit the waves with their humans, balancing on surfboards and competing in surf dog competitions. It’s equal parts sport and pure joy.
Fun fact: Tillman, a famous Bulldog, once held the Guinness World Record for fastest skateboarding dog — and he surfed too!