This issue’s Top Dog is Daisy, a first-generation miniature Goldendoodle from Freehold, New Jersey, who celebrated her sixth birthday on June 16. With her soft golden curls, joyful energy, and a heart full of love, Daisy embodies everything we adore about our canine companions—and then some.
Daisy’s story began with a little tail wag and a moment of connection that changed everything. “Looking back to the day I met Daisy, I think she chose me to be her family,” says her owner. “We knew we wanted a doodle, and when we visited a breeder in Pennsylvania, she walked right over, wagged her tail, and sat at our feet.”
The ride home cemented their bond. “I held her the entire way. She just laid on my chest, calm and happy. I couldn’t believe I was lucky enough to be her mom.”
Since then, Daisy has grown into a social, affectionate, and endlessly loyal companion. “She’s been described as well-socialized and playful—and that’s exactly who she is today,” her mom says. Daisy loves to spend her time with family (Mom, Grammy, Pop Pop, and her doodle bestie Luke), neighborhood walks, and outings that could rival a lifestyle influencer’s itinerary.
Daisy’s local stomping grounds include a long list of dog-friendly destinations. She’s a regular at Allaire State Park for fetch and forest adventures, and loves visiting local spots like White Chapel Projects, Talula’s, Asbury Ale House, Pig & Parrot, and Source Brewery. She’s even been known to sniff around Target and HomeGoods for the latest finds. Her favorite treat? A pup cup—best enjoyed after a beach walk or while lounging in her car seat.
“Daisy is my best friend,” her owner shares. “She brings me joy, companionship, and so much purpose. Everything I do considers her—her safety, her happiness, even her social life.” From Halloween costumes and birthday parties (with dog cake and party hats) to seasonal portraits with Santa and the Easter Bunny, Daisy is family—and everyone around her knows it.
She also brings happiness to her extended circle. “She’s my parents’ only grandchild, and they take that role seriously. Every family plan now revolves around whether Daisy can come too.”
Though Daisy is a lover at heart, she’s got a few talents that keep everyone smiling. When excited, she does a two-paw dance, standing on her hind legs with a wiggle that could charm a room. “If Daisy were in a dog pageant, her talent would be making a pup cup disappear in under 30 seconds.”
Among her many adventures, one trip stands out. “Last summer we visited the North Fork Hampton Wine Trail and stayed at a hotel on the bay,” her mom recalls. “We had daily walks on the beach, played in the water, lounged in the sun, and visited wineries and restaurants. There’s something magical about the ocean—and seeing Daisy so peaceful, lounging on a beach chair beside me, was unforgettable.”
Beyond the activities and adorable outfits, Daisy has offered something far deeper. “She’s taught me to slow down, to be present, and to appreciate little moments. Whether it’s the wind in her fur during car rides or the way she snuggles up on the couch—her joy becomes my joy.”
If Daisy could send a message to the world, her mom says it would be this:
“We only live once with our humans—so when you give your dog the best life you can imagine, you end up living your best life too.”
And for Daisy, that life is full of love, belly rubs, adventures—and yes, a whole lot of pup cups.
“We only live once with our humans—so when you give your dog the best life you can imagine, you end up living your best life too.”