Month: November 2023

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If you’re considering adopting a new dog, energy level is probably one of the biggest factors to think about. Dogs generally have a reputation for being excitable and energetic, but there are plenty who would rather relax and watch TV with you than demand endless hours of catch. Many breeds were bred to perform jobs that require less energy, including guarding, keeping others company, quietly retrieving game or just being friendly, which has resulted in calm temperaments.

Despite being relatively relaxed and peaceful, calm dogs still require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. While they may not be prone to hyperactivity, they still need the opportunity to stretch their legs, burn off some energy, and get some fresh air. Not every pup will be a match for your lifestyle and activity level, so consider how much time you can throw at training and play sessions.

While these laid-back dogs will be eager to join you in a binge-watching session, space matters, and only some dogs are suitable for apartment life. Same goes for size. Are you considering adopting a small dog, medium-sized dog, or big dog? There are less energetic dogs in each size, especially if you consider adopting a senior rescue dog, who would simply be happy to be in a home where they’re loved. A good resource is your local shelter or rescue group; their volunteers can act as matchmakers who can help find you the right pup for your family. If you’re looking for a calm companion, here are 10 breeds to consider.

10 Super Chill Dogs

1. Senior Rescue Dog

Senior rescue dogs are generally seven years or older, and there are a lot of them in shelters. Rescue dogs, some of whom previously lived with but were surrendered by families, come in all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Senior dogs, however, are usually quieter and slower-paced than their younger counterparts and are just looking for a safe place to spend their golden years. They also often require less training than younger dogs and are typically already house-trained. The downside of senior dogs is they are more likely to have certain health issues, like arthritis or dental problems, but they make up for it with gratitude for a second chance at a happy life.

2. Clumber Spaniel

While the Clumber Spaniel was originally bred for hunting birds, the breed is generally known to be more calm and laid-back than some other spaniels. They also have big lumpy heads on surprisingly short legs, making them awkwardly adorable. They are very affectionate and are fine being indoors and hanging out. The Clumber has a thick cream coat that is usually spotted with orange and needs a lot of brushing. They need regular exercise and a balanced diet to prevent weight gain and can also be prone to health issues such as hip dysplasia and eye problems. Make sure you get them from a reputable breeder and stay on top of vet care.

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3. Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound may have been bred to hunt wolves and were even brought to battlefields, but they are often described as “gentle giants” because they are very friendly with people, other animals, and kids. This big breed is one of the tallest, with males standing up to 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing up to 120 pounds, but despite their large frames, Irish Wolfhounds are super chill and laid-back; they require regular exercise but are not particularly energetic. Take them for a walk, impress everyone around you, then take them home for a long nap.

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4. Pekingese

The Pekingese was originally bred to serve as companion dogs in the Chinese Imperial Court, and they love company. This small breed has a flat face, a long, luxurious coat, and particularly floppy ears. These pups make great pets for those seeking a low-energy dog that can adapt well to living in small spaces, though their love of people means separation anxiety is an issue if they’re left alone for too long. They are subject to some hereditary health issues, which can make them expensive pets to keep, but, as a bonus, their long coats mop the floor for free.

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5. Greyhounds

The Greyhound may be known for hunting and racing, but this breed is secretly one of the laziest dog breeds; though they obviously have the capacity for bursts of energy, Greyhounds love lounging and sleeping whenever they can. Many Greyhounds end up in rescues after their racing days are over and make great family pets, but bad guard dogs, as they are likelier to fall back asleep than confront an intruder. Moderate walks and runs are important for their health, but they will love hanging on the couch with you more than anything. These big dogs also don’t love stairs, so beware if you live in a home with stairs or a building without an elevator.

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6. Leonberger

The Leonberger is a muscular German breed often used as draft dogs and herding dogs. They have a calm nature, though, and are very trainable, which not only makes them great family pets but also often leads to them being used as therapy dogs. They are also often trained as search and rescue dogs because they are brave. Leonbergers have a thick coat that grows around their body in a big ruff and require regular exercise and training to prevent destructive behavior, so make sure you have some space inside and time for the outdoors.

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7. Keeshond

The Keeshond is a calm medium-sized breed from the Netherlands with a silver-gray coat and distinctive black markings around their eyes; they look a little like a large raccoon you can safely keep in your home. They were originally bred as watchdogs and companions, so they love barking and being near you in that order. Keeshonds have moderate energy levels, naturally gentle personalities, and are easily trainable. Lots of regular exercise and socialization will keep them in good spirits.

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8. Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin is a small toy breed that, despite their name, is originally from China and landed in Japan in the 16th century. This breed has a round head, large, wide-set eyes, and a short, flat nose with a soft and silky coat ending in a beautiful tail. They have an affectionate, gentle nature and love attention. These peaceful pups make good lap-dogs and are sometimes compared to cats because they self-groom and climb high. They’re also super smart, but unlike most cats, they are very trainable.

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9. Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli is a small hairless dog topped with a little tuft of hair (though sometimes they even forgo that little decoration) and known for being a relaxed, quiet companion. The Xolo usually attaches to one family member in particular, but they get friendly with anyone they’re comfortable with. Despite being fairly chill, Xolos like regular long walks and outdoor time. Because they’re hairless, these dogs don’t need as many baths as most, and too much bathing can take off their natural skin oils, which causes various issues; one bath per month, paired with a warm cloth rub-down once in a while, is good.

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10. Tibetan Spaniel

Tibetan Spaniels are tiny dogs from Tibet bred to be little guardians. These pups can have calm and affectionate personalities and don’t require a lot of exercise. They are loyal and will quickly become attached to their family, but are usually pretty open to new people. They have silky coats in different shades of brown, big almond eyes, and floppy ears that point forward to frame their cute faces. They’re trainable, though they have a bit of a reputation for stubbornness (as little dogs often do).

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Do calm dogs still need exercise?

Yup, calm dogs still need plenty of exercise even though they can be content to spend time quietly with their pet parents or even by themselves. This can include walks, runs, playtime in the yard, swimming, hiking, or whatever else you can get yourself to do outside the house.

By Alicia Kort

Felix Chacon / Stocksy
When you hear “Hound Dog,” your first thought may be of Elvis’s famous song. Despite what the King of Rock and Roll claims, Hounds usually don’t cry all the time if they’re getting enough mental stimulation and exercise, but they do often have unique, shrill barks.

Of course, Hounds are so much more than their voices. These extremely intelligent dogs are also gifted hunters and are usually divided into two groups: Scent hounds and sighthounds, who are each named for the primary skill that makes them top-tier hunters. Read on to learn about the different types of hounds and noteworthy breeds within the two types.

What is a hound dog?

A hound dog is a dog that’s bred for hunting — specifically for using their powerful senses to track down targets. Scent hounds use their extraordinary sense of smell while sight hounds use sharp eyesight, to track and chase.

Scent Hounds:

• Scent hounds typically have a long snout.
• Their noses are prominent, containing a large number of scent receptors for effective tracking.
• Scent hound eyes are often set more forward on the face, offering better focus on scents near the ground.
• Their long and hanging ears help trap and funnel scents toward the nose.
• Their lips may be droopy, helping to trap scents near the nose.

Sighthounds:

• Sighthounds tend to have sleek and aerodynamic heads.
• Sighthound eyes are often large and positioned on the sides of the head, providing a wide field of vision.
• Sighthounds have long faces, but their noses are usually smaller in comparison to scent hounds.
• Ears can be folded back to reduce wind resistance when running at high speeds.

It’s all about scent hounds

Scent hounds use their keen sense of smell to find people, food, prey, and other objects, even when they’re miles away. They have more olfactory receptors than other dog breeds. For example, the Bloodhound (a scent hound) has about 300 million olfactory receptors, whereas humans have about 6 million. The average dog can sniff four to five times within one second, so imagine how quickly a scent hound is able to parse out a single scent when they’re on the move.

Scent hounds are usually low-riders with short legs that make keeping their noses to the ground easier. Their short stature also allows their ears to absorb the smells they brush past, allowing scent hounds to linger over the scent even if they’ve technically moved on.

These dogs prefer to be sniffing at all times, preferably with a goal in mind, so to keep your scent hound mentally stimulated, you could hide a treat in the house and send them on a hunt to find it (but be prepared for the game to end quickly). Because of their single-mindedness, it’s recommended that scent hounds are always kept on a leash or in a fenced backyard.

Basset Hound

The low-slung and long-eared Basset Hound was bred for tracking, and their nose is considered only second best to the Bloodhound’s with more than 220 million olfactory receptors. Their little legs are built for endurance instead of speed, so they can follow scents easily for hours — and once they’re on the scent, they change from calm to stubborn in seconds.

This breed only reaches 15 inches at shoulder height but can weigh up to 65 pounds. Despite their short coat, they can shed a lot and should be brushed weekly. Basset Hounds make good companions to families with young children and other pets.

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Beagle

The Beagle is a scenthound with around 220 million olfactory receptors and a hunting companion bred to be a prey tracker. They used to rove around in packs to find rabbits, hares, and more, so once they get ahold of a scent, they’ll want to follow it forever. Because of their pack history, Beagles don’t like being left alone and can become destructive.

This small breed can be as tall as 15 inches at shoulder height and weigh as much as 30 pounds. They’re great with other pets and young children, though they aren’t the biggest cuddlebugs. Beagles require an hour of exercise per day, mental stimulation, and weekly brushing because although their coat looks short, they actually have a double coat.

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Dachshund

The Dachshund may be a squat breed, but they have a keen sense of smell and are fierce hunters who can even hunt below ground and ferret out prey hiding in holes or dens. They are the smallest scent hounds and come in two sizes: Standard (weighing up to 32 pounds) and Mini (weighing up to 11 pounds).

Dachshunds have big personalities despite their small stature. They have a courageous independent streak that can cause them to be a bit mischievous and have a high endurance — they can seem tireless at times. However, they can become seriously injured if they jump off furniture, sprint up and down stairs, or run for long distances, so they should be taken on two moderate walks per day. Dachshunds can also have three types of fur — smooth-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired — so their grooming needs vary.

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Bloodhound

The Bloodhound has the strongest olfactory receptors out of any other dog, with about 300 million receptors. This long-eared breed also picks up many smells with their ears and can be as tall as 27 inches tall at shoulder height and weigh up to 110 pounds, making them the largest scent dog on this list. Their short coat is surprisingly dense, so it will shed several times each year and requires weekly brushing.

Bloodhounds’ sad, droopy faces and all-over body wrinkles might make them look like they’re happy to laze in your backyard or on your couch all day, but they require long walks plus extra playtime (in a fenced yard, so they don’t wander off after a smell). The Bloodhound can be an affectionate addition to any family.

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Bluetick Coonhound

The Bluetick Coonhound is named for their blue-and-black “ticked” pattern on their backs and legs, and, unlike other scent hounds on this list, were bred to be nocturnal hunters and sniff out raccoons. Like other hounds, however, these dogs have a strong urge to follow their noses, and if they aren’t given enough mental stimulation and physical activity, they can become destructive.

Bluetick Coonhounds, which can be as tall as 27 inches and weigh up to 80 pounds, are large hunters with even bigger prey drives. This breed knows how to separate work from rest, though, and is more than content to chill at home if their needs are met. They get along well with other pups thanks to their tracking background. Their shorter coats need to be brushed weekly, and owners can expect them to shed moderately.

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Sighthounds see it all

Instead of using their noses, sighthounds use their eagle-sharp eyesight, large range of vision, and speed to bring down prey. Scent hounds were bred to help humans, but sighthounds were bred to hunt on their own.

Sighthounds have light, lithe bodies that are deep-chested, thin at the waist, and boast long legs, which help them sprint after prey — and maintain that speed for miles. In fact, sighthounds were bred to bring down quick prey, like hares, but also larger prey, like deer and even wolves.

Greyhound

Greyhounds are the speediest of the sighthounds (they can reach 45 miles per hour), and their entire bodies were designed for hunting success. Their eyes are wide-spread so that they can survey the land around them for the slightest movement, and they have a large range of vision —  Greyhounds can have a 270-degree range of vision, while humans have 180. Even their feet are padded to give them a springier step.

These affectionate large pups are relatively low-energy in their homes, though they need plenty of opportunities to show off their sprint. Greyhounds can reach up to 30 inches at shoulder height and weigh up to 70 pounds. This breed can be myriad colors and patterns, but their coat is short and requires weekly glove run-downs.

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Borzoi

The majestic Borzoi is a long-haired, large sighthound — they can reach up to 105 pounds and more than 28 inches at shoulder height — originally bred to be a wolf tracker and hunter. This lithe pup has a mind of their own and doesn’t react well to aggressive training. The Borzoi can be lazy around the house but requires long walks and the opportunity to run around in a fenced yard. It’s important to note that they will sprint after anything that moves, so they should be kept contained due to their high prey drive. As for grooming, the Borzoi’s long coat will require weekly brushing and will shed profusely once a year.

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Whippet

Smaller than the Greyhound and Borzoi, the Whippet reaches 22 inches in height and can weigh as much as 40 pounds, but can still run at speeds up to 35 miles per hour. The Whippet looks like a miniature Greyhound in many ways, and their temperament is similar to other sighthounds; they love to lay around the house but will spring into action when something catches their eye and need to be kept mentally stimulated with activities like games of fetch or agility training. Whippets are incredibly cuddly pups who make great companions to small children and other pets. This pup’s short coat is low-maintenance and only requires brushing once a week.

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Saluki

The Saluki is an Egyptian breed that boasts the honor of being one of the oldest dog breeds out there. With their long-haired ears — will end up covered in food from their food bowls if they are not pulled back — and bushy tails, Salukis slightly resemble lions. The rest of their coats are relatively short in comparison and can be either smooth or long-haired (the latter will require more grooming). Salukis can reach speeds of 42.8 miles per hour, making them second in speed to the quick Greyhound, and can weigh up to 65 pounds and reach 28 inches in shoulder height.

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Pharaoh Hound

Like the Saluki, the Pharaoh Hound originated in Egypt thousands of years ago and boasts a lithe frame. Pharaoh Hounds were bred to speed over rocky terrains (they can reach up to 35 miles per hour), and their short tan coats help them blend in with that terrain when they’re on the hunt. This breed can reach up to 55 pounds and 25 inches at shoulder height, and their short coats only require a weekly brushing.

This sighthound isn’t all work and no play, though — they’re considered very devoted pets and get along well with other dogs and young children. This large breed sighthound requires more exercise than some other sighthounds; they should be allowed to run in a yard or will need two long walks per day.

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FAQs

How big do hound dogs get?

Hound dogs can range in size. A large hound, like the Irish Wolfhound, can weigh up to 180 pounds, whereas smaller ones, like Beagles, can weigh under 20 pounds.

How big do hound mixes get?

Like their purebred counterparts, hound mixes can range in size from over 100 pounds to less than 20 pounds, depending on the breed mix.

How do you train a hound dog?

Because they’re scent-driven and independent thinkers, some hound dogs are stubborn and require patient, consistent training to best channel their energy and instincts.

Is a Beagle a hound dog?

Yes, Beagles are considered hound dogs. Beagles are famous for their super sniffing skills and are classified as scent hounds.

Are hounds good family dogs?

Yes, hounds can make great family dogs as they’re generally friendly, social, loyal, and affectionate with their human packs.

References:

Scent Hound

AKC Hounds

Sight Hound vs Scent Hound

Canine Olfaction: Physiology, Behavior, and Possibilities for Practical Applications

Tips for Training Scent and Sight Hounds

The Science of Sniffs Disease Smelling Dogs

By Alicia Kort

Felix Chacon / Stocksy
Are you looking for a dog who can be considered your new best friend or your shadow? You’re looking for a companion dog or a dog who is friendly, affectionate, and so devoted that they might come off as clingy. Companion dogs are usually lap-dogs, but that doesn’t mean they’re small — big dogs can be lap-dogs (and companion dogs), too. These breeds are also usually medium- to low-energy and usually good with young children, seniors, or other pets.

We’ve rounded up a list of the best companion dog breeds out there. These dogs vary in size, fur maintenance, mental stimulation requirements, and exercise needs because a family with young children might be looking for a different companion than an elderly couple, and a person who lives in a studio apartment in the city will have different caring capabilities than a family in the suburbs.

These 10 breeds have something important in common, though: They all love unconditionally and are incredibly loyal companions to their pet parents.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu, nicknamed the “Lion Dog,” makes the perfect small companion dog. Coming in at up to 16 pounds and 10.5 inches at shoulder height, the Shih Tzu has been a lap-dog for centuries and is happy to continue that tradition. Highly affectionate and great around other pets and young children, Shih Tzus aim to please; they enjoy charming their humans with tricks and snuggling.

Because they’re bred as lap-dogs, Shih Tzus only need short walks and a little indoor playtime to keep them happy. Their elaborate mane is a little more high-maintenance, though — they require daily brushing and monthly baths to keep their coats looking and feeling nice.

Weight: 10 to 16 pounds
Lifespan: 10 to 16 years

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Papillon

The Papillon, which means “butterfly” in French, tops out at 10 pounds and only reaches 11 inches at shoulder height. This small breed is known for their unique wing-like ears and loving and devoted nature. Papillons make good companions — they are good with young children, but young children should be taught how to interact gently with this small pup, or the dog could get injured. This regal pup is surprisingly smart and active despite their small stature and will want to play fetch inside more than you might anticipate. The Papillon’s silky-soft fur only needs to be groomed every month or so, but occasionally running a brush through it will help it stay tangle-free.

Weight: 5 to 10 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

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Golden Retriever

It’s probably not surprising to see the Golden Retriever on this list as they are one of the most famous companion dogs. Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent, obedient, cheerful, and eager to please. They enjoy having some sort of job or task for mental stimulation — they often work as service dogs — and sometimes make it their life’s mission to support their pet parents in whatever way they need. They’re also good around young children and other pets.

This pup is a bit larger than the other companion dogs on this list so far — they can weigh as much as 75 pounds and reach 24 inches tall at shoulder height — and require a lot of exercise, including long walks or play, or they might grow destructive. Their beautiful golden double-coat of fur also sheds heavily twice a year and moderately the rest, so they should be brushed frequently.

Weight: 60 to 75 pounds
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years

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Maltese

The Maltese is one of the most famous lap-dogs in the canine world. This petite white pup only weighs up to seven pounds and reaches 9 inches of height, so they also make the perfect purse dog, but aren’t recommended for families with young children or other (larger) pets. This breed can be doting, but they can have a sassy streak, which is undoubtedly from years of sitting on the laps of rulers.

Like the other toy dogs on this list, the Maltese doesn’t need a ton of exercise, though they have a high enough energy level to play multiple times a day. That silky white coat won’t keep itself clean — the Maltese requires a light daily brushing to prevent tangles and frequent baths with shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat healthy.

Weight: 4 to 7 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

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American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier, nicknamed “AmStaffs,” are big cuddle bugs — and their size will not stop them from trying to be lap-dogs. This breed can reach up to 70 pounds and 19 inches at shoulder height, but they’re still a bit clingy, which is ideal if a pet parent is looking for a companion dog (they even make great service dogs). This breed wants to be around their humans all the time and can grow destructive if they’re left alone for too long. AmStaffs are a little more high-energy than the other dogs on this list, so older people would be better matched with a senior. Their short, glossy coats are easy to care for; they only require a once-over with a brush weekly.

Weight: 40 to 80 pounds
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years

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Maltipoo

The Maltipoo is a mix of a Poodle and a Maltese and is generally as charming as their Maltese parent and as smart as their poodle parent. Good with kids and other pets, Maltipoos are friendly, affectionate, and usually pretty vocal. These pups can weigh up to 20 pounds and reach 14 inches in height and typically have curly white fur, which should be brushed daily and bathed monthly to keep it healthy. This breed is generally considered hypoallergenic because of their low-shedding coat. Maltipoos get the zoomies and require daily walks and playtime.

Weight: 4 to 12 pounds
Lifespan: 10 to 16 years

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The name of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a mouthful, but this breed, also known as a “Cavalier,” has a devoted following. If you look into a Cavalier’s big puppy dog eyes, you can see why kings and queens liked to keep this regal dog around. Highly affectionate to the point of clinginess, the Cavalier is highly loyal and would spend absolutely every minute with their humans if they could.

These small companion dogs are a very vocal breed, so pet parents should be prepared for arguments with these dogs over dinner and treat time. Cavaliers are happy to chill on couches and take long naps, though they enjoy indoor and outdoor playtime as well as long walks. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have longer fur, but it only needs to be brushed weekly to avoid matting.

Weight: 12 to 18 pounds
Lifespan: 9 to 14 years

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Chiweenie

The Chiweenie, also called the “Choxie,” is a mix between a Chihuahua and a Dachshund. This small cute pup, who weighs around 12 pounds and reaches 10 inches at shoulder height, is great for city dwellers who don’t have a lot of space. Due to their stature, they are ideal for families with older children, cats, or similar-sized dogs. Chiweenies are surprisingly energetic pups for their size; they require more than 30 minutes of exercise per day.

Chiweenies are loyal and typically develop a strong bond with one person, though they can still be affectionate with other family members. This breed can be considered “yappy” because they bark frequently, especially at unexpected noises, which makes them good guard dogs. Because Chiweenies don’t have breed standards, they can have either long or short hair depending on who the mom and dad are and vary in coat color.

Weight: 5 to 20 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

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Boxer

The Boxer is a muscular, athletic pup with a heart of gold. This large breed might look like a bruiser at around 80 pounds and 25 inches at shoulder height, but they’re happy-go-lucky, goofy dogs who love spending time with their companions. Due to their patient nature, they make good pets for families with children. Because they are so devoted, though, they can grow overprotective if not socialized and trained from a young age.

Boxers are high-energy and thrive best in a fenced yard to play and run around in. Because of their required exercise level, they don’t make the best companions for seniors. They have a glossy, short coat that needs to be run over by a hound glove or gentle brush once a week.

Weight: 55 to 70 pounds
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years

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Miniature Schnauzer

The smallest member of the Schnauzer family also makes a great family companion. With their sweet old-man-like faces and beards, the Miniature Schnauzer is a friendly and devoted breed. They can reach up to 20 pounds and 14 inches at shoulder height, so young children should still be supervised with a dog this size, but Mini Schnauzers used to be farm dogs and are stronger than they look. This pup has a medium active level, so will need more than one walk a day to stay happy and healthy. Their curly fur coat is double-layered (the top is wiry and the undercoat is soft) and needs constant brushing, though they shed a little.

Weight: 13 to 20 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

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Mutts

You don’t need to go to a breeder to get a great companion. Mixed-breed pups also can be great lifelong friends. Some say that their shelter dogs saved them as much as they saved their dog. Just talk to rescue staff about the dog’s temperament, exercise levels, and whether they’re good for families with young children, the elderly, or other pets to see if that dog might be the right fit for you. Even if you are attached to the idea of a specific breed, many purebreds end up in shelters, and there are purebred rescues out there to help you find the dog you want.

Weight: 5 to 190 pounds
Lifespan: 8 to 15 years

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FAQs

Why are dogs such good companions?

Dogs make great companions because they can literally smell when you’re stressed or sad (we swear!) and provide emotional support and unconditional love. They can also make you more social because they may lead you to socialize with other pet parents at the local dog park and active because, depending on their breed, your pup can go on adventures with you, like hiking, long walks, and even runs. And, of course, dogs are great companions because you’re never alone with them by your side.

What are the best companion breeds for seniors?

The best breeds for senior citizens are dogs with lower exercise needs. Dogs with moderate energy levels are often small breeds, like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Maltese, or Papillon. These breeds are devoted lap-dogs who just want to spend time with their humans.

What are the best companion breeds for anxiety?

Lower-energy, less reactive, and easily trainable breeds make the best pets for people with anxiety. Emotional support dogs can provide companionship and calm nerves, but they don’t have formal training like service dogs. Some common therapy dog breeds include Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Great Danes, and Poodles.

How can you get a companion dog?

You can get a companion dog through pure breed rescues if you’re after a specific dog breed, shelters or other rescue organizations, or you can even find your new family member on adoptapet.com.

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Alicia Kort is a writer and editor living in Brooklyn. She’s currently the senior commerce editor at Apartment Therapy. She’s been published in StyleCaster, Electric Literature, Newsweek, Interview, Brooklyn magazine and more. In her free time, she runs, reads, and spends time with her dog-nieces, Maya and Lady, and her cat-niece, Pepper.