In May, dogs from across New Jersey gathered for City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model casting call, where canine contestants competed for the chance to represent their hometown on the cover.
A key partner in the event was K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough, known for luxury dog boarding and daycare, cage-free accommodations and a focus on safe, clean and enriching experiences for pets. K9 Resorts helped make the casting call a memorable day for families and their dogs.
Animal Alliance also joined the event, bringing its mission of helping animals in need to a day centered around community and canine connection. The nonprofit organization rescues, shelters and supports dogs and cats while helping pets find adoptive homes.
Tater Bear Treats added another special touch with small-batch dog treats made in New Jersey, giving the four-legged contestants one more reason to wag their tails.
From playful puppies to seasoned companions, the competition showcased dogs of every breed, size and personality imaginable. While every contestant brought something special to the event, one pup stood out among the Bridgewater entries thanks to his unforgettable charm and his ability to make everyone around him smile.
For Bridgewater residents, that dog is Copper Mosley Billman, a beloved local pup who calls the township home.
Better known as Copper and affectionately called Pee-Wee or Bean, this 10-month-old long-haired miniature dachshund has officially earned the title of Bridgewater’s Next Top Doggy Model. And while he may be small in stature, Copper more than makes up for it in personality.
Copper is especially beloved by 13-year-old Shelby, who saved her money to purchase what she proudly calls her “dream dog.” While Copper is cherished by the entire family, his bond with Shelby is something special.
From the moment he wakes up, Copper is on the move. Shelby’s mother, Caitlin Billman, describes him as spunky, mischievous and playful—the kind of dog who doesn’t just observe life in a household, but fully participates in it.
“Copper just has to be where everyone else is,” Billman says. “If something is happening, he wants to be part of it. He doesn’t like to miss a thing.”
That constant curiosity has made him a source of endless entertainment. Copper turns ordinary moments into small adventures, whether he’s racing through the house, joining in on family activities or looking for someone to snuggle.
Copper is also deeply affectionate. Sweet, adorable and undeniably cuddly, he sticks close to the people he loves. Copper can often be found curled up beside whoever happens to sit down first, as if he’s been waiting for that exact moment all day.
“He just wants to be close to us,” she says. “If you sit down, he’s right there with you. He loves being held, snuggled or tucked in beside someone. He’s happiest when he’s close.”
Copper’s favorite pastime is burrowing. Every treat or bone he receives seems destined for a secret hiding place, carefully tucked away for later.
“We’ll find them in the couch, under pillows, all over the place,” Billman says with a laugh. “It becomes a little treasure hunt around the house.”
Despite his playful mischief, Copper is incredibly social. He adores the family’s other dogs and thrives in the company of animals. Being part of a pack is important to him, and he is rarely seen without at least one companion nearby.
But what makes Copper’s story especially meaningful is that behind his playful personality is a dog who has already overcome more than most realize. Copper was born with cataracts, with one eye more affected than the other. While this could have limited his life, it has not slowed him down.
“He sees just fine for now, and it doesn’t stop him from doing anything,” Billman says. “He keeps up with everyone, runs around the house, gets zoomies and even barks at our cat like any other puppy would.”
That fearless attitude shows up most during his bursts of energy. Copper’s zoomies are legendary, turning hallways into racetracks and living rooms into playgrounds.
For Shelby and her family, Copper is entertainment, comfort, chaos and companionship all in one small, wiggly package. What began as Shelby’s dream dog has become a beloved member of the entire household.
As Bridgewater’s Next Top Doggy Model, Copper represents the joy of unexpected personality—the kind that fills a home with laughter and the occasional missing treat found days later under a couch cushion.
Small in size but enormous in spirit, Copper Mosley Billman is proof that the best things often come in the most mischievous packages.
The casting call was made possible with support from local pet-focused partners who helped create a welcoming day for dogs, families and the community.
Event partners:
K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough
63 Route 206, Suite 100
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
k9resorts.com/hillsborough
Animal Alliance
animalalliancenj.org
Tater Bear Treats
Order online: @tater.bear.treats on Facebook and Instagram.
“He just wants to be close to us, if you sit down, he’s right there with you. He loves being held, snuggled, or tucked in beside someone. He’s happiest when he’s close.” —Caitlin Billman