Jo Jo Harder

CEO/The Jo Jo Companies

Jo Jo Productions

Founder/America's Top Dog Model



* HAPPY HOLIDAYS *

Happy Holidays! My name is Maya Marie, and I will be 4 years old on December 21^st. I reside in South Carolina with Mom, Dad, two kitties and our new foster doggie Cookie Sue. I kind of like her but I get upset when she takes my toys and tries to get all of mommy’s attention. Maybe Santa Paws will bring her some toys of her own! I’m learning to share though, and I am looking forward to Christmas and spending wonderful family time together. Mommy and Daddy always host Christmas Day, so I get to see my Papa and my human siblings. Wishing all my friends and family a magical and blessed holiday season. Grinch dress @fashionfurpaws; bow and necklace @furkidfancy; photo by mom Gerallyn Grassie; instagram @Mayamariethechichi.

Hi, my name is Gnocchi Bean. I'm a 5-month-old long-haired male chihuahua, and the newest member of the “Miller Pack.” Mommy says I’m one of the sweetest chihuahuas she has ever met. I never growl and I love playing with children. They have lots of energy just like me. Also, I enjoy going for walks with mom, and playing with my fur siblings. Mommy says I was sent to bring joy back to the family after my older brother Charlie passed away. I never got to meet Charlie, but I was told that he was the best boy ever! This year will be my first Christmas and I’m so excited! I am blessed to have found a new family to love, although they tell me, they are the blessed ones. Photo by mom Connie Miller; IG @maiseys.dollface.divadogs; Grinch Bow @fashionfurista; Sweater @poshpuppyboutique; Grinch hat @madetopawty.

Yappy Howlidays! My name is Maddie Mae and I’m a 2-year-old long-haired chihuahua from Northwest Minnesota. I live with my three fur siblings, Maisey, Willow Rose and Gnocchi. I also live with my brother and littermate Tito, who lives in our basement with his mom. My hobbies include barking at our neighbor’s dogs, playing with my brother Tito and most of all, being my mom’s shadow. I make sure to watch her every move. It’s a big job, but I’m the best there is at it. For Christmas this year, we plan to have all our family over for dinner. We open presents and the people play games. There will be lots of kids at our house and they drop food on the floor. My job is to make sure to get it all licked up before any of my fur siblings get to it. Photo by mom Connie Miller; fur vest @lolaandpooch; Winter Wonderland Tutu @tubbiestutus; cuff @fitforroyaltydesigns; white bow tie @guccellausa; blue bow @lulunycshihtzu. Instagram @maiseys.dollface.divadogs.

Woof! I’m Teddy, a six-year-old, very fluffy, petite mini goldendoodle from Tennessee. I’ll be celebrating Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, at home with family and furrends. Hanukkah is a happy holiday that lasts for eight days and eight nights. We laugh, bark, and play games. I love to chase the spinning top called dreidel. We eat a lot too. There’ll be plenty of yummy treats including potato pancakes (latkas) and jelly donut (sufganiyot). We light the menorah and exchange gifts. I’m hoping for more squeaky toys. But above all, I wish for light, love and peace in the world! Satin collar with feathers and gem collar @millydogfashion; velvet t-shirt @minipawsdesigns; Star of David leg cuff @ggcrew_the_geweler; plush musical dreidel @amazonpets.com; photo by mom Laurie Barocas; Instagram @teddybearocas. 

Ho Ho Ho! My name is Babydoll. I live in Oklahoma with 5 cat siblings.They are all pretty, but my gosh, they each weigh 20 pounds! I only weigh 5.0 pounds, so I stay out of their way! They all stay in the laundry room at night, which is where they were born. (Mommy calls it their bedroom). Every morning Daddy lets them out to the back yard. Then at 6:00 p.m. Daddy calls them, and they all come running in and walk straight to their bedroom! Can you tell they are all Daddy's cats? LOL! I have always loved pretty colored lights. So, at Christmas, Mommy dresses me in my warmest sweater, and then we all travel to Tulsa where Rhema displays their pretty Christmas lights. Happy Holidays Everyone! Photo By mommy, Dixie Fallin Slamans; Santa tutu, bandana, boa, and bow @lilly.langtree77; Santa cuff @ggrew_the_geweler; Instagram @fashion.classy.babydoll.

Hello, my name is Tito. I’m a 2-year-old long-haired chihuahua weighing just 4 lbs. I’m a lil guy with a huge attitude. I live at my grandma’s house with my mom Makenzie and my grandma and grandpa. Grandma takes care of me while mom works long hours as a nurse. I also live with my litter mate sister Maddie and all her fur siblings. Maddie is my best friend. We play together all day long. My favorite thing to do is dress up and take pictures. For Christmas, we are going to have all our family over, eat lots of yummy food and watch the people play games. We have so much fun just being together. Photo by Connie Miller; Instagram @maiseys.dollface.divadogs; Santa hat @fitforroyaltydesigns; sweater @Jordanvalentinothelabel; bow tie @furdrobe; Grinch suit @minipawsdesigns; cuff @fitforroyaltydesigns; red shirt @bbnewcreations; Grinch hat @madetopawty.

Hi, I’m Chelsea, a sweet girl with a princess demeanor. I love to chase the hottest doggy fashion, usually in pink, but I’ll make an exception for a little holiday red! At 17 and a half years old, I may nap a bit more these days, but I’ve still got that main character energy. I spend my days spreading love and reminding everyone that different is beautiful and aging doesn’t dull your sparkle. In fact, it makes you shine brighter! This holiday season, my only plan is to be surrounded by love and my family, because that’s all that matters! Photo by Lisa @chelseaandme.xo; dress @puppyangel_worldwide; accessories @fivebelow; Instagram and Facebook @iggychelseaandme.

Hi, I'm Marigold, a three-year-old Dalmatian from Winter Springs, Florida. I’m a certified therapy dog who loves the camera! I visit schools, hospitals, and community events to spread smiles and calm energy. Friendly, gentle, and full of personality, I’m always ready to pose - especially when treats are involved! This holiday season, I’ll help Mom wrap presents, nap by the tree, and enjoy long walks to see the twinkly lights. Mostly, I just want to make everyone smile and spread holiday cheer—Dalmatian style! Photo by Colleen Henderson; Designer Credits: Colleen Henderson; Instagram @Ladymarigoldpupper. 

My name is Amoreena, and I am a 10-year-old Maltese who was named after an Elton John song. I live in the Ocean State with my mom and my 3 fur siblings. I am a little Diva who loves to dress up and look pretty. My holiday outfit was designed by Sonia Santos who is my mom, and owner of Pawssion Designer Pet Clothing in Rhode Island. My outfit was made of royal blue brocade silk, with a black and gold ribbon and gold bow at the waist, including hardware for a leash, when I am out and about. My hat with blue feathers compliments the dress. Every holiday my fur family wears matching outfits to celebrate during a special dinner. Photo by Sonia Santos; Facebook @thelifeofthesantosfurfamily.

Hi, I'm Miley Jo. I live in the Tampa Bay Area with my parents and dog sister Fergie Mak. I love fashion, walking the runway, and nature walks. Not only am I a fashion model, but I'm also an influencer. I like trying products and telling everyone about them. This Christmas my family will take the golf cart out and look at all the pretty lights. I'm looking forward to presents from Santa Paws, a special Christmas dinner and lots of treats. Dress and accessories @communitypet and @knoxdogwear; photo by mom Jodie Keisel; Instagram @miley_jo_the_chorkie.

Hello world, my name is Tilly Claire. I am a 1-year-old Miniature Goldendoodle. I love people and I am training to become a therapy dog. My dream is to work with children, as little people are my favorite. I am sweet and sassy. In other words, sugar and spice! My plans for the holidays are to be with my family and enjoy some lizard hunting. Photo by Laura Shell @Studio 33 Photography LLC; styling by mom Elle Grace; dress @Petsmart; Facebook @ElleGrace.

Hi, I’m Dolly, a two-year-old Italian Greyhound from Sarasota, Florida. I love modeling fun outfits, going on little adventures with my mom, and cuddling up for cozy snuggles. When I’m not striking a pose, you’ll find me chasing toys, exploring the city, or showing off my playful personality for the camera. My plans for New Year's Eve are to celebrate it with my family and friends that are coming to visit us. So, I expect lots of belly rubs, lap naps and of course treats. Happy New Year everyone! Photo by mom Marsha Stanisic; outfit: @duds4buds; glasses @fitforroyaltydesigns; hat and bandana @doggone_dapper; cuff: @temu; Instagram @dollysiggyworld.

Woof! I’m Theodore “Teddy” @teddybearocas, a six-year-old, very fluffy, “petite” mini goldendoodle from Tennessee. I’m a pawty animal! I plan to dress up on New Year’s Eve and celebrate at home with my pawrents and some close furiends.. My resolution for 2026 is to sit and wait to be greeted instead of jumping up on guests. Happy, healthy new year! Personalized collar, feathers with rhinestones and metallic gold tie @millydogfashion; black satin vest @tattletailsx3; Faulex watch @fitforroyaltydesigns; New Year's Eve glasses @dollartree; Photo by mom Laurie Barocas.

Cheers, darlings — it’s Sophie Isabella, a 6-pound, one-year-old Ambassador of Happiness. I’m also a model with a flair for all things glam. I’m known for spreading smiles, striking poses, and serving couture-level confidence in every photo. I believe fashion should always bring joy — and this New Year’s Eve, I plan to sparkle, mingle with my favorite humans, sneak a treat or two, and remind everyone that happiness never goes out of style. Photo by mom Rachel Wacks; dress @Susan Lanci Designs; collar @Susan Lanci Designs; necklace #1 @Maggie & Co. necklace #2 @DOGUE Shop; Instagram @sophie_isabella_chihuahua. 

Hi, I’m Chelsea, a sweet girl with a princess demeanor who loves to chase the hottest doggy fashion, preferably in pink and definitely if it keeps me warm! At 17 and a half years old, I may nap a little more these days, but I’ve still got that main character energy. I spend my days spreading love and reminding everyone that different is beautiful and that aging doesn’t dull your sparkle, it makes you shine brighter! This New Year's Eve my plan is to be surrounded by love and my family, because that’s all that matters! Photo by Lisa @chelseaandme.xo; outfit by @josieslooknook; Instagram and Facebook @iggychelseaandme.

A cookie and dog treat exchange party is a fabulous way to celebrate the holidays, or ring in the New Year. Nothing brings us together like baked goods, and unlike a White Elephant party where the guests bring gifts, a cookie swap event asks each guest to come with a dozen or more home-baked cookies. In this case, guests will also bring dog treats.

At the party, everyone gets to sample an assortment of cookies and treats baked by other guests and then leaves with a take-away container of their favorite cookies and dog treats along with delicious recipes for both. Host a cookie and dog treat exchange for the ones you love with this easy party planning guide.

Did You Know: December 22 is National Cookie Exchange Day!

Three Weeks before the Party

Make your guest list

Holiday treat swap parties typically work best with a group of four to 6 friends and their pups. Think about who in your crowd enjoys baking and which ones have dogs that are well-behaved and enjoy socializing. A small guest list will also make it easier to keep track of who is bringing what.

Send invitations to guests

Holiday calendars tend to book up quickly, so try to get your invitations out promptly. You might even ask around beforehand, to get an idea about who would be able to attend. Also consider your own schedule, and what day of the week works best for you. Decide whether to mail paper invitations or a nice digital invite.

Include the following details on your invitation:

• The purpose of the party. (e.g. "You're invited to a Holiday Cookie and Dog Treat Swap!")

• Date and time. 

• Location (be sure to include the full address).

• What people are expected to bring. You could ask guests to bring a dozen cookies and a dozen dog treats, depending on your party size.

• You'll also want to specify any ground rules, such as whether cookies and treats need to be holiday themed and even whether they must be homemade. 

• If there are any allergens your guests should omit from their baking, state this clearly on the invitation.

• Add a note to remind guests to bring their own serving platters and take-away containers or let them know if you will be providing these.

• Wrap up the invitation with RSVP information, such as your email address, phone number, and RSVP deadline date. You can also ask guests to respond with information about what kind of cookies or treats they will bring and ask them to bring their cookies and treat recipes so they can be shared with the guests. 

• Ask guests to bring their dog’s favorite toy. 

Two Weeks Ahead 

Follow up on RSVPs

Reach out to any guests who skipped replying and answer any questions that come in. At this point, you should have a good idea of who is bringing what. If more than one guest intends on baking the same cookie recipe, you may wish to gently suggest that someone make a change.

Shop for party supplies

Visit your local party supply outlet, or favorite online shop to gather the partyware and festive decorations. Rather than use your everyday dishes and serving plates, you may want to opt for disposable versions of these instead. Consider also how you will display the cookies and other snacks at your party. Consider using layered cake stands or create a buffet with platters on your dining room table. You will also want to buy plastic or tin containers for packing the cookies and treats that guests will take home. 

Create a party menu 

You want guests to take some cookies and treats home, not eat them all during the party, so you'll want to offer other snacks such as holiday appetizers, a cheeseboard, finger sandwiches or a veggie and dip platter. Set up a cold beverage and hot chocolate station for guests to serve themselves. Have party-sized thermos available for hot chocolate. 

Make a plan for pups

To keep your pups preoccupied during the party, set up a quiet area with their favorite toys, treats, water, and a comfortable bed. You can also provide interactive toys or puzzle feeders to keep them engaged and mentally stimulated.

1 Week Ahead

Create cookies and treat labels

Your guests have told you what cookies they are bringing. Now it's time to create labels that will tell the other guests what is being offered. The labels should include the name of the cookies and treats, any relevant information about allergens (e.g. "contains peanut butter" or "no eggs"), and who baked the treats and cookies. You can print out labels using graphic templates that you find online or create hand-lettered place cards. 

3 Days Ahead

Go shopping

Make a shopping list of all the ingredients you need for your party food and refreshments. Remember to include the ingredients you will need to bake your own cookies and treats!

Create a music playlist for the party

Have fun coming up with a music playlist that suits your theme. For a holiday gathering, you might decide to go with traditional Christmas carols or create a holly jolly playlist of popular songs about dogs. 

1 to 2 Days Ahead

Bake and Cook party foods

Bake cookies and treats for the party. Once cooled, store cookies and treats in air-tight containers to keep them fresh. Cook party foods that can be made ahead and refrigerated or stored.

Decorate and set up

Deck the halls with festive décor according to your holiday theme. Lay out a festive tablecloth, a centerpiece, and any other decorations. Then, set out enough platters, plates, and cake stand to hold each guest's batch of cookies, and other party foods, along with the cookie labels. Designate a quiet area for the pup station. 

The Day of the Party

Finishing touches

Add any finishing touches to your decorations, such as lighting the fireplace, or setting out candles for lighting when guests arrive. Get food and refreshments ready. Cook or reheat any party foods you will be serving and set them on the buffet shortly before guests are expected to arrive. Place dog treats on a separate table. Set out your home-baked cookies and treats with a label to describe them. Prepare refreshments and set them up at the beverage station. Set out containers for guests to take home cookies and treats.

Set up the pup station

Finalize the pups area with toys, bed and water bowls. 

Start the music

Turn on your playlist just as the first guests arrive, so they are greeted by music.

Enjoy the party!

The Day After the Party

Send a group email to all your guests to thank them for coming to your party. 

See many other party themes from the book Diva Dogs: A Style Guide to Living the Fabulous Life.

Be sure to check out the tail wagging Christmas Tree Dog Treat recipe submitted by Dolores Caruana @lordladydoggytreats.it's pawfect for a holiday dog treat exchange!

Gingerbread Christmas Tree Dog Treats

Ingredients

• 10 oz flour
• 2 oz smooth peanut butter. Make sure your peanut butter doesn't contain Xylitol. 
• 1 apple, peeled and grated or very finely chopped (grated is better) 
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp black treacle
• 9 oz. water
• Christmas tree shaped biscuit cutters (or any festive cutter shape you prefer) 

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350° degrees.

• Add all the ingredients to a large bowl and mix thoroughly until formed.

• Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.

• Cut out your biscuits and place them on a lined baking tray.

• Cook biscuits in the oven for 20 minutes or until they are golden in color. 

This beautiful Gingerbread Christmas Tree Dog Treat recipe and photo is submitted by Dolores Caruana @lordladydoggytreats. Thank you so much.

NOTE:

Always consult with a veterinarian before feeding your pet something they have never tried before.

Need cutters? Shop America's Top Dog Model for gingerbread house and dog house cookie cutters.

THE ENTERTAINER

PAMPERED CHEF TRUFFLE FINISHING OIL 

Turn simple dishes into showstoppers with just a drizzle of the Truffle Finishing Oil. Made in small batches and infused with white truffle flavor, this golden oil adds rich, savory depth to anything it touches. Think risotto, fries, pasta, roasted veggies, and even popcorn with a delicious, gourmet twist.

LOTTIEBELLE’S PECAN SAMPLER

When you want them all!! Made with Georgia grown pecans and candied in small batches in Lottiebelle’s Bakery. Gift set includes six 4oz bags.

NORTH COAST SEAFOODS

When you’re craving fresh shellfish, you don’t have to make a trip to the coast. North Coast Seafoods delivers Wellfleet oysters (and other amazing seafood) right to your door. Fed by nutrient rich ocean currents, the calm Wellfleet Harbor has been producing award winning oysters since the early 1800s. These oysters are plump with a clean flavor profile and a distinctively good balance of creamy sweetness. Elevate your next dinner party and satisfy your need for fresh seafood with fresh oysters from North Coast Seafoods. 

2023 ST. SUPÉRY NAPA VALLEY ESTATE SAUVIGNON BLANC

Celebrate the holidays with Napa Valley’s finest from St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery. For over forty years, St. Supéry has been committed to producing 100% estate grown and produced wines and is Napa Green Vineyard and Winery certified. The 2023 St. Supéry Napa Valley Estate Sauvignon Blanc is fresh and inviting with ripe green lime and pink grapefruit combined with notes of lemon crème and a hint of anise on the palate. 

HOMEBODIES

BEAN CANDLE CO

Bean Candle Co makes candles that speak to pet parents who want wellness and intention woven into their homes—offering a safe, toxin-free way to enjoy fragrance that supports balance, protects furry friends, and daily special moments. 

FOR HER

FOR HIM

FAMILY TIME

ACORN PROJECT PAINT KIT

With the Acorn offering a message of hope to all, the company has launched The Acorns Project™ Paint Kit to bring you back to nature and view the beauty of nature from a different perspective. A creative kit families and friends can enjoy together anywhere, anytime, this paint kit merges art and nature offering the opportunity to paint wooden acorns for fun with intention.

BRICK-YOU CUSTOM MINI FIGURES

For pet parents who consider their dogs family members (or fashion icons!), here’s a gift that’s as personal as it is paws-itively adorable. Brick-You custom mini figures aren’t just toys, they’re custom-made, buildable keepsakes made from real photos. Think of them as sentimental mini sculptures with personality and characteristics, all captured in brick form next to you. Transform any photo into a cute, fun, and physical lasting memory that fits in your hand, and you can keep on your desk, dresser or on your bookshelf. They are easy to build with clear instructions, making it a fun interactive activity for the whole family.

FRESHCUT PAPER HOLIDAY DALMATION POP-UP CARD

Loyal, full of energy, and adorable in a Santa hat, this charming Pop-Up Dalmatian is a timeless holiday companion that will bring joy to all of your loved ones. Each pop-up pup comes with a matching notecard, a mailing envelope, and interchangeable accessories, including an entire holiday wardrobe. There's a customizable speech bubble for you to include your own heartfelt holiday greeting. FreshCut Paper is committed to making a positive impact on both people and the planet. Through their partnership with veritree, they have helped plant over 4 million trees, restoring vital ecosystems.

DOG'S LIFE

THE FURRYFOLKS PIXMOND MATCHY SET

Meet your new everyday duo. Pixmond’s graphic pixel-houndstooth wraps your furry pal in a soft, easy-on knit sweater while you slip into coordinating crew socks for a clean, modern match. The sweater feels cozy yet lightweight with gentle stretching, so it moves comfortably from park laps to couch naps. The socks add cushy comfort and a polished finish for you. Wear them together for effortless twinning that reads playfully.

THE FURRYFOLKS RED CABBAGE NOSEWORK TOY

This holiday season, introduce an element of joy with the furryfolks Red Cabbage Nosework Toy. Encourage your pups to explore and find delicious hidden treats nestled within the cabbage leaves, providing them with an enriching and engaging playtime experience. The crinkly leaves will captivate their ears as they hunt for hidden treasures, offering a multi-sensory delight. It's the ideal gift to pamper your furry loved ones.

WELCOME PUP GIFT BASKET

America’s Top Dog Model ® Signature Welcome Pup Gift Basket is loaded with love and style! It contains a luggage tag, water bottle, bandana, and treat pouch, all packed precisely in a woven toy basket made with soft natural cotton rope designed to keep your dog's playthings and other items organized and readily accessible. This decorative storage features a sturdy built-in handle and the black and white combination compliments any home décor. 

PAMPERED CHEF DOG TREAT GIFT SET

Make the holidays extra special for your dog with Pampered Chef's Homemade Dog Treats Gift Set. Packaged in a beautiful box that’s all ready to gift, this dog treat baking kit has everything needed to make tail-wagging homemade dog treats. This set includes a pumpkin pie dog treat mix, dog bone biscuit cutter, Mason jar, and a recipe card. 

TOP READS

MOST WANTED WINTER READING LIST



SOCIAL PETWORKING MONTH

December 2025

6 -  East Hampton Village Holiday Celebrations & Santa Parade. 10am- 5pm: Holiday Market on the lawn of Village Hall, East Hampton, NY. ehvf.org/santafest

11 - Canines & Cocktails Gala. An elegant evening event where dog lovers can enjoy signature cocktails, socialize with fellow pet enthusiasts, and support the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation. 6:30pm - 10:30pm; Orlando, FL. www.akcchf.org

13 - Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade. Greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida, kicks off the holiday season with its annual Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade; 2025 theme: Yacht Rock of Ages: Paying Tribute to the Timeless Tunes That Make Us Smile. Parade starts - 6pm. winterfestparade.com

19 - AKC Museum Bark After Dark: Happy Howlidays. 6pm. The AKC Museum of the Dog,101 Park Avenue, New York City. museumofthedog.org

January 2026

NATIONAL WALK YOUR PET MONTH

2 - National Pet Travel Safety Day

2 - 5 - The Kennel Club of Palm Springs Dog Shows. The Kennel Club of Palm Springs annual AKC Licensed All Breed Dog Shows includes four days of conformation shows as well as Obedience and Rally competitions. The event also offers a great selection of vendors, food concessions, CGC testing, temperament and trick dog evaluations and more. Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, CA.. kennelclubofpalmsprings.com

9 - American Dog Society Gala. A gala supporting dog parents and dogs, featuring dinner, drinks, and an auction. Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, Bonita Springs, FL.

americandogsociety.com

14 - National Dress Up Your Pet Day

23 - 25 - The World of Pets Expo. This exciting three-day expo is one of Maryland’s only family and pet friendly events that is fun for all ages! Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium. worldofpets.org

29 - Performers for Paws. A fundraising event to support retired military and police working dogs. The Nashville Palace, Nashville, TN.   projectk9hero.org

February 2026

7 - The Dog Ball. The largest annual fundraiser held on behalf of the Greater Huntsville Humane Society, is an exciting event that raises money to help defray the cost of caring for animals in need! Huntsville, AL. thedogball.org

7 - 8 - New York City’s AKC® Meet the Breeds®. From Affenpinschers to Yorkshire Terriers and everything in between! AKC Meet the Breeds®, the nation’s largest educational dog extravaganza, gives dog lovers a unique opportunity to meet, play with, and learn about hundreds of dogs! Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, NYC. akc.org

Be sure to check events for updates. If you have an event that you would like considered for Top Dog Events, let us know all the de'tails by emailing: americastopdog@aol.com

America's Top Dog Model Paw Prints Magazine

America's Top Dog Model Paw Prints is a lifestyle magazine designed for pawrents and dog lovers who desire to stay on top of the latest pup news about fashion, modeling, contests, cuisine, travel, events, grooming and photography. 

America's Top Dog Model Paw Prints Magazine December 2025/January 2026 Special Holiday Edition is available in print. Order your copy here.