Instagram handle: mrwpaws
Winston ~ Bichon-Poodle-Cavalier
@stjohnnz Therapy Dog
small dog energy, big dog attitude
Cousin to Skyla @skylahopkinspaws
What breed is your dog, and how old are they?
Meet Winston Paws: part Bichon, part Poodle, part Cavalier – and entirely irresistible. At 10 years young, he’s proof that age is just a number when you’ve got swagger and heart-melting charm.
Why did you decide to create an Instagram account?
Winston’s Instagram began when he was just a tiny baby paws – mainly because he was outrageously cute. But it quickly became clear he had more than good looks. According to his doggy daycare, Winston has an impressively wide vocabulary and a very clever little brain. I wanted to share not only his handsome face, but his intelligence and kindness with the world. And hey, if he happens to become a doggy influencer spreading joy nationally (and internationally) … we’d happily accept that fate!
What sort of content do you share?
Anything fun, really! Adventures, outings, special moments, everyday cuteness – if Winston’s having a good time, it usually ends up on Instagram (or his Facebook page)
What sort of posts are the most popular and why do you think that is?
Reels and stories get the most love and views – probably because Winston’s expressions and personality really shine through in videos. We’d love to keep growing those views and reaching even more fellow dog lovers.
Where are your followers from?
Winston has admirers scattered across the globe – from New Zealand to Japan, the USA to the UK, and everywhere in between. His passport may be virtual, but his charm travels worldwide.
How do you promote the account?
I shamelessly share Winston’s account with people I meet in all kinds of situations – because once you hear about Winston, following him is basically mandatory.
What are the best things about running your Instagram account?
Being able to look back on Winston’s journey – his adventures, experiences, and how much he’s grown over time. It’s like a living scrapbook of our life together.
Are there any challenges?
Expanding Winston’s audience has been a learning journey – I’m discovering new ways to share his magic while he effortlessly wins hearts.
What are your goals for the Instagram account?
To reach 10,000 followers and continue spreading Winston’s charm, wisdom, and pawsitivity across the world.
Is there anything else you can share about Winston?
Winston is a St John’s Therapy Dog. He spends his Saturday mornings proudly wearing his uniform (doggy-bandana), visiting Onsdorp Retirement Hospital, where he brings comfort, cuddles, and plenty of smiles to the residents. He’s found his true calling in emotional support – especially when it involves sharing morning tea, hitching rides on wheelchairs and walkers, and keeping an eye on the resident cat.
Winston’s early years were spent in Mangawhai Heads, where he lived the ultimate beach-dog lifestyle for seven glorious years. When long walks to dispose of his poops became a serious issue, Winston took a stand – and his concerns and picture was proudly featured in the local newspaper.
When friend of Mandy (Winston’s mum) Janet started her doggy adventure business – Hipster Dogs, she needed a face for her vehicle wrap. Naturally, Winston became the model – occupying the entire back of the van like the icon he is.
Follow Winston Paws at: mrwpaws
