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 entries thanks to his unforgettable charm and ability to make everyone around him smile.
For readers in the Somerset Hills, that dog is Jeffrey Spiller, who calls Basking Ridge home.
Known simply as Jeff—or sometimes Beans—this lovable pup has officially earned the title of the Somerset Hills’ Next Top Doggy Model. At 3 years old, Jeffrey has become a local favorite thanks to his personality, unmistakable appearance and ability to spread joy wherever he goes.
His owner, Alli Spiller, describes him in three words: wiggly, energetic and loving. Anyone who has spent even a few minutes with Jeffrey would likely agree.
“Jeffrey is 70 pounds of love and positivity,” Spiller says. “He’s just happy to be here, and you can’t help but smile when you see him. He loves the car and is always up for an adventure, whether that’s a trip to the dog park or a stop at Dairy Queen.”
One of the first things people notice about Jeffrey is his impressive beard, which gives him a distinguished appearance well beyond his 3 years. Spiller jokes that his facial hair makes him look much older than he actually is. His breed remains something of a mystery, sparking conversations wherever he goes.
While Jeffrey’s lineage may remain unknown, his personality is crystal clear.
Jeffrey is a car enthusiast at heart and loves discovering new places. Whether the destination is near or far, he is eager to tag along. For Jeffrey, the best part of any day is simply being included. Whether he is coming along for a quick errand, meeting new friends at the park or accompanying Spiller on a weekend outing, his excitement is impossible to miss.
When he is not out exploring, Jeffrey enjoys one of his favorite snacks: pumpkin. Simple, wholesome and reliable, it is a treat that never disappoints.
Despite his energetic nature, Jeffrey has one habit that reveals his softer side.
Every night, without fail, he sleeps with his head on a pillow. It is a routine that feels surprisingly human and perfectly matches the lovable personality his family knows so well.
Part of what makes Jeffrey’s story special is the journey that brought him to the Somerset Hills.
Before settling in New Jersey, Jeffrey had already experienced life in two other states. He was born in Tennessee before eventually finding his way to the Humane Society in Lansing, Michigan, where Spiller adopted him. Together, they later made New Jersey home.
It is a path that spans hundreds of miles and multiple chapters, ultimately leading Jeffrey exactly where he was meant to be.
Like many rescue dogs, Jeffrey’s story is a reminder that some of life’s best companions arrive in unexpected ways. What began as an adoption has grown into a partnership filled with adventures, laughter and countless happy memories.
Today, Jeffrey spends his days doing what he does best: making people smile. Whether he is riding in the car, making new friends at the dog park, posing for photos or simply wagging his way through life, he approaches every moment with genuine enthusiasm.
That positivity is what truly sets him apart.
While his beard may grab attention and his mystery breed may spark conversation, it is Jeffrey’s joyful spirit that leaves the biggest impression.
As the Somerset Hills’ Next Top Doggy Model, Jeffrey represents everything people love about their dogs—unconditional affection, unwavering optimism and the simple ability to make every day a little brighter.
For Spiller, he will always be Jeff or Beans. For the Somerset Hills, he is officially a hometown celebrity.
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.
“Jeffrey is 70 pounds of love and positivity.” —Alli Spiller