By Nina Tsipuria
In the world of fashion, a new trend has gradually emerged – the dog in advertising photos, which is gaining such popularity that top fashion brands have started releasing clothing specifically for dogs, while adding dog-themed elements to human accessories. Fashion magazines have also begun to feature dogs in promotional photos alongside human models. The goal is clear: to gain more loyalty from animal lovers and to create goodwill for the products. Over time, not only human influencers have emerged on social media, but also dog influencers. Posing with a dog is considered more fashionable, as it reflects empathy and positive energy, which is why the modeling industry has actively introduced the profession of dog models. One of them is Cora, owned by Stacey Jones. Cora is considered the most popular model dog in New York, having participated in various brand advertising campaigns and TV shows. However, working with a dog model presents its own challenges. How well does a dog perform in front of the camera, and how reliable a partner is Cora on set? To answer these questions, we turn to Cora’s owner – Stacey Jones who is also New York’s most famous dog model.
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Dear Stacey, please look back and tell us about your and Cora’s first meeting.
I first met Cora as a 2 month old puppy. My husband Simeon and I traveled to upstate New York where her breeder is located. Cora also had a sister from the same litter who was at the house and they were playing in the back yard. We had lunch with the breeder to all get to know one another to see if we were a good fit. Initially I couldn’t decide between Cora or her sister to take home. Simeon was drawn to Cora the most, and that is how we ultimately chose her (or she chose us). She was always meant to be ours. I can’t imagine it any other way.
Please tell us about Cora, like an introduction.
Cora is a 2 1/2 year old borzoi. She comes from a long line of Champions and Grand Champions in the Dog Show world. She has a sister who is currently showing and Cora will ultimately also be a show dog, but at the moment she is enjoying her life as a dog model and influencer. Cora has a wonderful calm and sweet disposition. She enjoys living in New York City, going for walks in Central Park, shopping at the luxury boutiques on Madison Ave. Taking walks in Soho and going to restaurants. She received a tremendous amount of attention everywhere we go. People are very drawn to her sweetness and beauty. I joke that nobody cares about me, I am just her security guard walking her. It is like I am walking down the street with the dog version of Nicole Kidman!
Your Cora is a famous model, there must be some funny moments behind the photos, please share.
There are funny moments BTS. She has accompanied me on photo shoots, even when she isn’t modeling that day, and as soon as the photographer goes on set, Cora walks on! She loves being in front of the camera! Sometimes I have to remind her that it’s not her turn, but she wants to be photographed anyway. Also, If Cora doesn’t like something, she will let you know. She gives me a side eye glance when she doesn’t agree with what we are asking her to do. It’s like she knows it won’t work and we should realize that and move on.
Which photoshoot was the most favorite for Cora?
I loved the black and white shoot she did where she is wearing Jimmy Choo boots. The image is actually my phone Wallpaper! People love that image. It’s how she got into posing in women’s shoes.
Is there a new tendency in the fashion world being with pets in advertising photos?
I think the advertising and fashion community are embracing pets in photography now more than ever. Dogs are big business now. So many pet influencers and models are popular on social media. Pharrell Williams just launched a Spring 2025 pre-collection exploring the culture of dogs and humans for Louis Vuitton titled “DogLVers”. Cora and I were at the NY launch in Soho and I wanted to buy everything for her – and me!
What is the positive side of fashion photography when modeling with a pet?
I feel nearly everyone can relate to a pet. You may not be able to afford to buy the clothes or the bag in the campaign, but you can relate to it because of the pet in the photograph. Pets in pictures are always heartwarming and relatable. Cora was the lead dog for the Sutton Place Pup parade, which she really enjoyed! Cora also just appeared in a campaign for window treatments by designer Mimi Plange in collaboration with The Shade Store. Cora’s likeness is even used in one of the drapery designs. Now everyone can have Cora on their windows!
