In May, dogs from across New Jersey gathered for City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model casting call, where canine contestants competed for the chance to represent their hometown on the cover.
A key partner in the event was K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough, known for luxury dog boarding and daycare, cage-free accommodations and a focus on safe, clean and enriching experiences for pets. K9 Resorts helped make the casting call a memorable day for families and their dogs.
Animal Alliance also joined the event, bringing its mission of helping animals in need to a day centered around community and canine connection. The nonprofit organization rescues, shelters and supports dogs and cats while helping pets find adoptive homes.
Tater Bear Treats added another special touch with small-batch dog treats made in New Jersey, giving the four-legged contestants one more reason to wag their tails.
From playful puppies to seasoned companions, the competition showcased dogs of every breed, size and personality imaginable. While every contestant brought something special to the event, one pup stood out among the entries thanks to his unforgettable charm and ability to make everyone around him smile.
For readers throughout North Hunterdon, that dog is Leo, a four-legged resident of Whitehouse Station.
At just 19 months old, Leo has already captured hearts across the region, earning the title of North Hunterdon’s Next Top Doggy Model. With his long floppy ears, soft coat, expressive eyes and famously squishy face, it is easy to see why he was chosen to represent the community.
A Bracco Italiano dog, Leo is affectionately known by a few colorful nicknames, including “the hurricane” and “the tornado.” According to his owner, Deanna Cuchiaro, those names are fitting for a dog who approaches life with endless energy and enthusiasm.
Cuchiaro describes Leo as adventurous, driven and spirited—three qualities that seem to guide everything he does.
“Leo is just always on,” she says. “From the moment he wakes up, he’s ready to go. He wants to be outside, he wants to explore, he wants to see what everyone else is doing. If there’s movement, he’s interested. If there’s water, he’s already halfway there. He doesn’t do anything halfway—he does everything with his whole heart.”
Those traits have helped make him a standout both at home and in the community. Whether he is racing toward the water or investigating a new trail, Leo approaches life with full enthusiasm.
When it comes to favorite treats, Leo has refined tastes. His top choice is a cheeseburger from Saint Rocco’s, a reward that never fails to get his attention. But food is only part of what motivates him. More than anything, Leo loves adventure.
Swimming tops Leo's list of favorite activities, and he never misses a chance to splash around. He also enjoys keeping watch over local birds and enthusiastically announcing their presence. When it is time for a special outing, a visit to Cowabunga Cones and Sweets in Hillsborough is always a welcome destination.
One of Leo’s most amusing habits is his love of transportation. Whether he is riding along on a golf cart or enjoying a peaceful trip in a canoe, he is happiest when he is along for the ride.
While his playful personality certainly helped him earn cover model status, Cuchiaro believes Leo’s appearance deserves some credit too.
Between his signature long ears, velvety coat and lovable expression, Leo has a look that is hard to ignore.
“His long ears, soft coat and squishy face definitely help,” Cuchiaro says with a laugh. “He’s cute too, of course, but what people don’t always see is how deeply he connects to everything around him. He notices everything. He remembers people, places, routines—he really feels like part of every moment we’re in.”
But the best part? Leo’s journey began with an unexpected second chance.
At just 5 months old, he was surrendered because of his excessive drooling, a common Bracco Italiano trait. Fortunately for Leo, he found his way to someone who understood him.
Cuchiaro became connected to him through Bracco Italiano rescue work and immediately recognized the opportunity to give him the home he deserved. Since then, Leo has thrived.
As North Hunterdon’s Next Top Doggy Model, Leo represents much more than a handsome face. He embodies the playful spirit, resilience and unconditional love that dog owners know so well. From canoe rides to cheeseburgers and bird watching, he approaches every day with excitement.
For Cuchiaro, Leo may always be the hurricane or the tornado. For North Hunterdon, however, he is officially a hometown celebrity.
The casting call was made possible with support from local pet-focused partners who helped create a welcoming day for dogs, families and the community.
Event partners:
K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough
63 Route 206, Suite 100
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
k9resorts.com/hillsborough
Animal Alliance
animalalliancenj.org
Tater Bear Treats
Order online: @tater.bear.treats on Facebook and Instagram.
“He doesn’t do anything halfway—he does everything with his whole heart.” —Deanna Cuchiaro