Plaid Sweaters and Puppy Mornings in Portland

There's something about a Mini Aussie in a plaid sweater that just melts my heart. But this little guy isn't just any Mini Aussie. This is Kodiak, and I had the pleasure of being his very first pet nanny.

I met Kodiak while living in a luxury apartment community on Hayden Island, a beautiful, lush, tree-filled little island tucked between North Portland and Vancouver, Washington. It's one of those places where you can feel tucked away from the city while still being minutes from everything. And as it turns out, it was also where I'd make some pretty special memories.

Every morning, coffee in hand, I'd rush up to Kodiak's second-floor apartment. There was something so sweet and familiar about our routine. It reminded me of being a little girl when my mom would take me to the babysitter's before heading to work. Except now, I was the babysitter, and my little charge had four paws and a fluffy coat.

And what a personality Kodiak had!

A Little Gentleman in Plaid

Now, can we talk about the sweater?

Plaid is one of my favorite fall styles for dogs. Classic reds, warm browns, forest greens and cozy creams look especially adorable against the beautiful coats of Mini Aussies.

Kodiak already had the kind of face that could make anyone smile, but dressed in plaid? Forget it.

Of course, Mini Aussies have double coats, so sweaters aren't always necessary. Comfort matters more than fashion, especially for active little dogs who love to move, explore and play.

More Than Just a Cute Face

I've always had a soft spot for Mini Aussies. They're intelligent, curious, expressive and full of personality. They're the kind of dogs who make even an ordinary morning feel like an adventure.

What I especially love is how much is happening behind those beautiful eyes. These little dogs are observant, quick learners and often incredibly tuned in to the people around them. They need more than exercise; they need opportunities to think, explore and use those busy little brains.

And getting to know what makes each dog tick is one of my favorite parts of being a pet sitter.

From Puppy Sitting to Friendship

One of the unexpected gifts of caring for Kodiak was becoming really good friends with his mom.

What started as a professional relationship grew into the kind of friendship where we'd exchange homemade cookies, share chili recipes and introduce each other to new things. In fact, she's the reason I tried moose for the very first time!

Yes, moose. That's definitely not something I expected to add to my Portland pet-sitting adventures.

It's funny how a little dog can bring people together. I showed up to care for Kodiak, but somewhere between puppy mornings, baked cookies and conversations about chili, I gained a wonderful friend, too.

The Little Moments That Stay With Us

When I think about Kodiak, I don't just remember his adorable plaid sweater or that sweet Mini Aussie face.

I remember Hayden Island, the beautiful trees, my morning coffee and those trips up to his second-floor apartment. I remember how our routine brought back memories of my own childhood, and how a little puppy introduced me to someone who became a good friend.

That's what I love about this work. The dogs are always at the heart of it, but the relationships and memories we make along the way can be just as special.

And Kodiak? He'll always have a special place in my heart.

Love, Adriana

Doggywalkie | Portland, Oregon