Let’s talk about what the real author’s life looks like. Forget the Pinterest-perfect images of tranquil writing nooks, steaming cups of tea, and uninterrupted creative flow. Seriously, forget all of that.
My actual writing life involves a laptop, a plotline that may or may not be cooperating, a lot of busy stuff, and three furry, four-legged writing buddies who run our house. You might even call it a dog-powered publishing company.
This is writing with dogs—and it’s equal parts chaos, comedy, and canine cuddles.
Meet My Writing Buddies
First up, we’ve got Dobby, the resident grandpa pup. He’s a chug (that’s a Chihuahua + pug combo, for those not fluent in boutique dog breeds 😆). Dobby is a tiny tyrant wrapped in a blanket, with soulful eyes and zero tolerance for being ignored while I’m trying to write dialogue–especially when he decides it’s time for a walk. If he’s not curled up behind me, his little chin resting on my shoulder, he’s throwing shade from across the room because I won’t stop typing and start petting.
Then there’s Pippin—yes, she’s named after my bibliomancer heroine from my Book Magic series. She’s a superbreed mix of mystery and fluffiness, and she brings serious main character energy to my writing routine. Pippin is my plot whisperer. She stares at me like she knows the ending to my novel but refuses to spoil it. Rude.
Last but definitely the loudest is Nacho, my feisty Jack Russell Terrier. His full-time gig? Barking at everything that moves outside the sunroom window. A leaf drifting by? BARK. A bird just existing? BARKBARK. A serial killer? Okay, probably just the Amazon driver. But still. He’s committed. Nacho is the self-appointed security chief of my writing routine—and yes, his commentary is frequent and intense.
The Realities of a Writer’s Life (With Dogs)
If you’re imagining a peaceful writer’s routine, think again. Writing with dogs means learning to revise a manuscript while a squeaky toy chirps relentlessly under your feet. It means taking breaks not for coffee, but for potty time outside. It means embracing the sound of snoring during…well, just all the time.
But here’s another real thing: writing can be lonely. The author’s life is full of long hours, plot problems, and occasional crises of confidence. My dogs in a lot of ways are my co-authors. They’re my emotional support team. They’re the background noise, the distraction, and the joy that keeps me grounded.
My writing sessions always involve fur pretty much everywhere (especially Nacho’s white hair), a chewed-up sticky note or two, and the occasional canine keyboard edit. (Thanks for that scene break, Nacho.) But honestly? I wouldn’t trade this dog-filled writing routine for anything.
Why Dogs Make the Best Writing Partners
Let’s be real—dogs don’t care if your plot has holes or if your first draft is a hot mess. They just want to sit by your side (or on your lap, or your keyboard) and keep you company. And that’s the most beautiful thing.
They remind me to take breaks. They remind me that fresh air helps with writer’s block. And they definitely remind me that treat time is sacred.
So yes, this is my writing life with dogs—messy, noisy, and totally perfect. If you’re a writer with pets, you get it. And if you’re not, well… maybe you just need a Dobby, Pippin, or Nacho of your own.
Because behind every great writer there very well might be a dog barking at a squirrel and a manuscript covered in paw prints.
🐾 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!
Do you have a furry (writing) buddy? I’d love to see them! Drop a photo in the comments or tag me on Instagram @bookishly_cozy with your #WritingWithDogs crew.
And if you’re a writer looking for support, community, and storytelling inspiration (with or without a slobbery sidekick), join my WriterSpark newsletter for writing tips, creative encouragement, and maybe the occasional Dobby/Pippin/Nacho update. Because writing is better when we do it together—and with a little dog hair in the mix.
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