An Afghan Hound named Blondie spends her workday greeting customers at a small pet boutique in Surry Hills—and now she has a bigger job: she’s a finalist in a national office dog competition and carrying her neighbourhood’s hopes with her.
Blondie’s finalist spot is in the 2025 OZTOPDOG Top Office Dog category. Four years after being rescued, she became the face of LOVEDOG, a boutique created by her human to celebrate the bond between pets and people. The owner says Blondie’s daily impact at work inspired the business and continues to guide it.
A day with Blondie at the shop
On a dedicated sofa near the counter, Blondie settles in as customers come through the door. People sit beside her for a pat, take photos, and talk about the pets in their lives.
Staff note how those moments help strangers start friendly chats and make the shop feel relaxed. The dog’s presence is part of the service: an easy first step into conversation that brings regulars back.
From rescue to the shopfront
Her human describes meeting her as love at first sight. That bond grew into a plan for a community-minded boutique where dogs and their people could find products that fit their lives.
Blondie was central to that plan from the beginning and remains the brand’s in-store ambassador and “showroom manager,” a role she fills by simply being there, calm and curious.
Work beyond the shop
Blondie also works as a model. Recent shoots include Vogue, ALDI and Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Her earnings were put towards launching LOVEDOG, and her profile has introduced more locals to the shop. People recognise her around Surry Hills and drop in to say hello when they see her on the sofa.
The team behind LOVEDOG says Blondie highlights how pets help people connect. Quick chats in the shop add up to a stronger sense of place on the street. For them, the OZTOPDOG recognition reflects an everyday truth in Surry Hills: dogs are part of how the community meets, talks and looks out for each other.
Published 22-Aug-2025
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