Pooches & their pals: Yoshi & Iris

Iris, how did Yoshi come into your life?

For as long as I can remember, I dreamed of having a dog by my side. As a kid, I tried to convince my parents—no luck. And with a busy job, it just didn’t seem possible. So I settled for endlessly sending my husband cute corgi videos on Instagram. Then Covid-19 turned everything upside down and working from home became the new normal—goodbye, five days a week at the office!

When we finally started our search, we found a breeder looking for a forever home for a seven-month-old corgi. Yoshi, born in Spain thanks to a Dutch-Spanish breeder collab, turned out to be a true “tiger” (red brindle) with the cutest floppy ears. Since his ears wouldn’t stand up straight, he wasn’t suitable for breeding—but he was absolutely perfect for us. It really felt like it was meant to be!

Why did you choose a corgi?

The very first time I saw a corgi was on TV—love at first sight! Those long bodies and short “dino paws” (yes, that’s what I call them) are just too adorable. Naturally, I dove straight into the world of corgis. Did you know there are actually two types? The Welsh Corgi Pembroke and the Welsh Corgi Cardigan. Both super smart, love to work for their humans, and always up for a long walk. With a corgi, life is never boring!

Yoshi is a Cardigan: incredibly loyal, a total clown, but a bit shy around strangers. Not a day goes by without him making me laugh. He’s a cheerful little chap with four dino paws!

Yoshi, were you always a “goofy loaf,” or did that grow over time?

Those first weeks in my new home took some getting used to, but I quickly realized: this is going to be one big adventure! Of course, I had to test if my humans were really consistent (you never know). Then came puppy school, where I put my best paw forward. I’m great at listening, but I can be a little rascal too… toilet paper rolls aren’t safe around me! And my loaf-skills? Those have been there since day one. My favorite pose? The famous “sploot”—stretched out on the floor, all paws out. That’s my ultimate chill mode!

Do you remember your very first meeting? Was it love at first sight?

The breeder described Yoshi as a bit unsure, but a real cuddle bug. We got one photo—with his ears all taped up—and that was all we knew before visiting.

But as soon as we set foot on the property and saw Yoshi happily running around with his sister, we were sold. He was a little shy with us, but during a lovely walk, my heart melted. I knew right away: Yoshi belongs with us and deserves a prince’s life. The day we got to take him home? I’ll never forget it!

Iris, what’s the biggest difference in your life before and after Yoshi?

A life without Yoshi? I honestly can’t imagine it anymore! Since he arrived, we’ve become so much more active. Three walks a day, rain or shine, usually at least half an hour each (and even longer on weekends). Even if it’s pouring, Yoshi jumps up with his front paws on my desk: “Mom, time for a walk?” That puppy look gets me every time!

Sleeping in? Not with Yoshi around. We’re usually up by 6:30 or 7—even on weekends. Now that he’s outgrown his teenage phase, we sometimes get to snooze a little longer. Pure luxury, haha!

And maybe the best part: thanks to Yoshi, we’ve met so many wonderful people and dogs through Instagram. Without him, we’d never have found this amazing dog community. We’re super grateful for that!

Yoshi, what does your perfect day look like?

A perfect day? That means three or four long walkies! Out and about, with plenty of snacks along the way. I give my humans extra sweet looks—works every time for a training treat. They always carry them, since we’re working on being less reactive on leash together. I usually love meeting other dogs, but sometimes it’s a bit overwhelming.

Between walks, I love learning new tricks or putting on a real circus show. Sniffaris are also high on my list! The best thing? When my humans hide treats all over the house (a sniff toy is good too). That’s when my nose goes into overdrive! And in between? Snoozing on my favorite spot on the couch or in my bed—now that’s true happiness.

Yoshi, do you have a secret talent no one knows about?

Absolutely, but let’s keep this between us, okay? I’m a true pro at giving sad or funny looks to score treats or extra attention. As soon as the fridge drawer with cheese opens, I’m right there! I sit next to mom and give her the sweetest stare—she can hardly ever say no. Nine times out of ten, it works. Cheese is my weakness!

What does your morning routine look like?

When the alarm rings (or when Yoshi acts as the alarm), we jump out of bed. We get ready for the day and start with a fresh morning walk. Once we’re home, it’s time for Yoshi’s grooming ritual. He knows exactly to sit on the mat in the hallway for a quick “groom session”—paws and belly clean, so the house doesn’t need a daily deep-clean.

Then it’s breakfast time. Yoshi is a real foodie, so he often gets a tasty topper on his food, or we switch up his meals. You can always tell if breakfast was a hit: if he approves, he’ll roll around on the floor or in his bed. After that? Time for his favorite activity: a cozy nap!

Which Pawness product(s) are must-haves for Yoshi, and why?

We’re huge fans of the Pooch Polish no-rinse foam shampoo! With those short legs, Yoshi gets a dirty belly in no time, especially after a muddy, rainy walk. He’s not a fan of baths, so this foam is perfect for a quick freshen-up.

If it’s really bath time, we always reach for the Pawness dog shampoo. Love that beautiful glass bottle with the handy refill pouch. Our favorite? The scent of Fresh Fetch—so deliciously fresh!

The cookie jar is another must-have at home. It fits perfectly with our interior and keeps the snacks nice and crunchy (much to Yoshi’s delight). And the treat pouch? Ideal: lightweight, stylish, and always snacks on hand during training. Every walk becomes a party!

How important is sustainability when choosing dog products?

Sustainability is becoming more and more important to us. We consciously choose products that last, can be reused, and are made responsibly. That way, we take good care of Yoshi and the world around us. Thanks to Pawness, we can combine both—happy pooch, happy planet!

Yoshi’s favourites