This story originally appeared on and was shared by Westport Moms.
Doodles — aka poodle mixes — are one of the most popular mixed breed of dogs, and for good reason. They’re adorable, friendly, fun, smart and non-shedding, making them a better choice for some people with allergies. But there is one doodle who is even more popular (way more popular!) than all the rest. Samson the Dood, an 8-year-old pup, has over 1 million followers on Instagram. In a time where everyone could use something to smile at (aka the pandemic), Samson’s following grew as people checked in on this cute fur baby and his family. Westport Moms spoke to his mom, Jessica (also mom to two other dogs and a son, Theo, 2), about Samson’s amazing story.
How old are your kids/fur babies, and how long have you lived in Westport? My son Theo is 2, and my Furbabies are Samson (8), and Charley & Shea (brothers) – 2. We moved to Westport in Fall of 2018 – everyone thought we were crazy for leaving Brooklyn then especially without kids yet … good timing though…
How did you end up where you are now in terms of your job, or whatever passion project it is you might be doing? It’s wild – I would have never thought when I first started posting Samson on IG as a puppy it would evolve & grow in to what it is … but something resonated & Samson & Theo’s following has grown to over a million currently which is always bringing fun & new opportunities …but it really just brings me joy knowing we’re spreading a little happiness & joy through our videos / pics which keeps me motivated to continue sharing especially in these crazy pandemic times!
What are you most looking forward to in 2022? More fun times together with friends & family!! Seriously what a crazy 2 years (almost!) it’s been!
What is the best show you have recently (binge) watched? Everyone has been raving about Yellowstone over the past year … maybe I’ll start tonight – ha. I haven’t binge watched anything really since Younger (which was a fun & easy binge watch!)
What is one food you could not live without? HOT SAUCE / Jalapeños
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you? Most people assume I was in marketing or photography and that’s how I created Samson the Dood but I actually was in healthcare before.
If you weren’t doing what you are today what do you think your career path might have been? I probably would have stayed on the medical path & would have a small practice as a geriatrician.
If you had 24 hours to do whatever you wanted to do, what would it be? Teleport to Greece or Italy … really missing the old world charm & beauty of Europe.
What was your most memorable family vacation and why? We just got back from a couple weeks in Tremblant … always good to escape CT in winter to warmth or a winter wonderland and Theo got on skis for first time which was fun, too!
What is the best white lie you have told your kids? I haven’t had to start white lying to Theo too much yet – except for telling him Thomas the Train (on TV) has to take naps & go to sleep too otherwise he could watch it 24/7 … going through that obsession currently
Are you a morning person, or a night owl? How does sleep fit into your life right now? Definitely more a night owl though I do love catching a good sunrise on the beach with the doods finally getting back into a good sleep routine – I feel Mom’s have to sleep train themselves again after having babies?!
What thing has surprised you most about being in the suburbs? The energy! To be honest, I was always a little worried about moving to CT because I just assumed it was sleepy … how silly! I just LOVE the energy & vibe in Westport and all fabulous women & moms I’ve met!
What is the first thing you do when you walk in the door after a long day? Hug the doods & dude then maybe the husband.
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