Calli at 9

Show me the way
London, ON
April 2026
This photo originally shared on Instagram

It’s my birthday today, and my hoomans did not get me a cake.

Instead, my dad says he’ll take me on extra-long walks.

And give me a few extra hugs.

And an extra treat or seven.

And then some more hugs for good measure.

He says time moves too fast. And while I don’t really understand what time is, I do wish we had more of it.

Woof.

#ldnont #canada #schnauzer #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog

Sit, Calli, sit

Good dog
London, ON
February 2026
This photo originally shared on Instagram

I’m just going to sit here and stare into your soul until you give me those treats I know you have in your right-front pocket.

#ldnont #canada #schnauzer #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog

The space-addicted Schnauzer

Watching history
London, ON
April 2026
This photo originally shared on Instagram

Just before the Orion capsule, Integrity, slips behind the Moon and out of radio contact with Earth, a strangely calm Schnauzer sits on a couch some 400,000 km away and watches the surreal scene.

There’s no way to know what she’s thinking, but I’m guessing it has something to do with squirrels and treats. But still, she manages to indelibly imprint herself on a moment over a half century in the making.

History can look different depending on which lens we choose to look through. There are no right or wrong ways to witness it. All that matters is that we choose to witness it in the first place.

The dog is always a bonus.

#ldnont #canada #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog #artemisii

Dogs hate April Fool's, too

I wish I could ride this thing
London, ON
March 2026
This photo originally shared on Instagram

Calli the Wonderschnauzer isn’t much of a fan of April Fool’s Day. Neither am I.

I’m not a comedian, so I’m no expert on the subject. But I do like to laugh, and I’ve never found it amusing when the humour is programmed, scheduled, obvious, or forced.

We laugh harder when there’s a little bit of surprise in the mix, and there’s no surprise today. Read, check the date, furrow our brows, repeat until it’s mercifully over.

But I am a journalist. And waking up to supposed jokes being published and broadcast by actual journalists is, in a word, gross. At least to me. If your very profession revolves around being the arbiter of truth, why would you deliberately abandon the mission in search of a cheap laugh?

It’s all so forced that there’s no way it can possibly be funny. More likely, the humour on this day takes on a darker tone. Bullies love this once-a-year opportunity to do their thing with impunity, on a day when bringing joy isn’t the priority as much as shaming others is.

So don’t mind if Calli and I bow out of it entirely. We have walks to take, balls to play with, moon rockets to watch (go Artemis II!) and squirrels to chase.

Maybe none of that is remotely funny. But all of it is real. And that’s all she cares about.

#ldnont #canada #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog #aprilfool

A dog in a coat in the snow

Only love
London, ON
January 2026
This photo originally shared on Instagram

While the planet burns and everyone else rage-posts about it, I’m just going to leave this right here.

Because the notion of a dog whose only goal in the moment is to frolic in the snow and make sure she isn’t alone is something I think we can all appreciate.

This is all she cares about. She has no concept of the things that weigh the rest of us down. She doesn’t watch the news, and even when she does, the headlines just wash over her. She gives kisses without being asked. No one hates her because she’s an 8-year-old girl who happens to have a beard. There is no such thing as Anti-Schnauzerism.

I’m under no illusion that the charmed life of a dog doesn’t somehow exist in some broader context. It absolutely does. And a single photo of a frozen-faced pup doesn’t magically repair the world.

But maybe it starts simply. Maybe everyone needs a moment with a dog to get back in touch with what makes us human. Maybe it’s how we begin to heal the planet and each other.

Woof.

#ldnont #canada #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog

Off with her coat!

Believe it or not, this is her happy look
London, ON
February 2026
This photo originally shared on Instagram

For close to a month, the temperature here stayed well below freezing. Most days, it was so cold that Calli the Wonderschnauzer ran under the dining room table when it was time to go outside.

We insisted on putting on her coat, which only added to her misery. It’s hard to explain to a dog that we’re doing all of this to keep her safe and warm.

Well, the temperature finally climbed above freezing, so the coat stayed on the hook as we prepared to head out. She didn’t run under the dining table, instead planting herself at the door when she realized the hated purple coat was staying in the vestibule.

She had an extra bounce in her step as we closed the door behind us, almost as if she knew something had changed. I don’t profess to speak dog, but she seemed happier than she had been in a while.

I can’t control the weather, and her much despised coat might yet be needed before this ridiculous winter finally gives way to spring. So we’ll use extra treats to coax her out from under the dining room table, and we’ll offer extra pets and hugs for a girl who deserves happy moments as much as anyone.

It’s a dog thing, I think.

Good girl.

#ldnont #canada #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog

Staring out the window

Love me
London, ON
January 2026
This photo originally shared on Instagram

Today needs more dog in it.

Who’s with me?

#ldnont #canada #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog

Follow me, Dad

In her happy place
London, ON
January 2026
This photo originally shared on Instagram

It doesn’t take much to make her happy. Just hook up her leash, head out into the snow, and let her do the rest.

Out here, nothing matters to her beyond spending time together. Headlines are irrelevant, and she doesn’t spend her time responding like Pavlov’s pup to notifications.

She simply follows her nose to the places that bring her joy. Then she plays relentlessly until she decides it’s time to head back.

It’s a pretty inspiring way to live.

#ldnont #medway #canada #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog

Dogstorm

This isn't happening
London, ON
December 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

Dad,

You don’t really think I want to be out here, do you?

We’ve been on enough walks together that you know I’m generally a fan of winter. After all you’re the one tugging on the leash when I get carried away bouncing through the snow and burying my nose in countless drifts.

But my usually sunny Schnauzer attitude hits a wall when you insist on heading out in the middle of a raging blizzard. When the winds reach Apocalyptic levels and my little legs can’t find traction on the ice, it’s time to head inside.

No, I don’t care that I haven’t “done my business” yet. Nor do I subscribe to the notion that specific walks at specific times are mandatory. If the weather sucks, we’re staying in the house.

Capisce?

With much respect and love,

Calli the Wonderschnauzer

#ldnont #canada #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog #onstorm

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Can I play, too? April 2010

Dognap

Sweet dreams
London, ON
December 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

Today feels like a day that could use a bit more dog in it.

Come to think of it, maybe it should be “a lot more dog” instead of “a bit more”. Words matter, apparently.

I’ll admit our particular dog, Calli, is loud and stubborn. She listens when she wants to, if at all. And if we’re being frank, sometimes she kinda smells funny, especially after a walk. She also has a nasty habit of eating tissue paper, then freaking out when it comes out gift wrapped. Schnauzers are weird to begin with, and she’s an outlier in countless ways.

Whatever the case, she’s still worth a good hang. She plays hard, sleeps even harder, and never fails to make everyone around her smile. Sounds like the recipe to a life well lived, doesn’t it?

#ldnont #canada #callithewonderschnauzer #actofdog

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One tired puppy, March 2020

Paws for effect

Toe beans!
London, ON
December 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

Since it was a busy day for us yesterday, it was a busy day for her, as well. Hence the toe beans.

I don’t think she moved from that spot all evening, and I wasn’t about to interrupt her dog dreams.

They looked like happy ones.

#ldnont #london #ontario #canada #calli #callithethewonderschnauzer #dog #actofdog #schnauzersofinstagram #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #monochrome #photography #apple #iphone #iphone17 #shotoniphone

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She waits by the bedroom door

Shades of RCA Victor
London, ON
November 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

The scene: last night. 11:44. It’s bedtime for all of us, and as Calli the Wonderschnauzer often does on her way upstairs, she sits herself down on the upper landing beside our room.

She’ll wait for us to get there before finally getting up and following us in. There’s no telling what she’s thinking, but I’d like to imagine the thoughts bouncing through her head are happy ones. Maybe scenes from the day she’s just had, or wishes for a comfy night’s sleep with her humans. Or squirrels.

Last night, she lingered just a bit longer, the shadows she cast feeling just a bit more grounded than they usually do. So I quietly grabbed this memory before we all tucked in for the night.

Every once in a while, I’m reminded that the moments we remember most seem to be the quietest ones.

#ldnont #london #ontario #canada #calli #callithethewonderschnauzer #dog #actofdog #schnauzersofinstagram #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #photography #apple #iphone #iphone17 #shotoniphone

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Our dog the photo model, September 2024

That Schnauzer stare, December 2023

Extra spicy schnu, September 2023

She'll pose for treats

This is my spot
London, ON
November 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

Look, I don’t much appreciate your constantly sticking that lens in my face. But if I sit pretty for a few seconds, will you finally leave me be?

I might even come around if you add in a treat. Or maybe six treats.

I know you know Schnauzers are smart. But did you know we’re also pretty good negotiators, too?

#ldnont #london #ontario #canada #calli #callithethewonderschnauzer #dog #actofdog #schnauzersofinstagram #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #photography #apple #iphone #iphone17 #shotoniphone

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That Schnauzer stare, December 2023

Extra spicy schnu, September 2023

Play with me, please

Ball?
London, ON
October 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

Never miss an opportunity to play with the dog.

#ldnont #london #ontario #canada #calli #callithethewonderschnauzer #dog #actofdog #schnauzersofinstagram #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #photography #apple #iphone #iphone17 #shotoniphone

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The bear strikes a pose

I believe you had mentioned treats
London, ON
August 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

My hoomans keep pointing these weird rectangular objects at me and asking me to look at them.

They give me treats when I do, though, so I guess it’s okay.

I don’t know what a picture or a photo is, but they say I look pretty in them, so that must be an okay thing, too.

Then they give me even more treats. And we snuggle. And play with my favourite blue ball. And they let me nibble on the grass for as long as I want.

I’m beginning to think my hoomans will let me do just about anything short of actually catching the squirrels who live in our maple tree. They say that’s gross.

They’re funny, my hoomans, aren’t they?

#ldnont #london #ontario #canada #calli #callithethewonderschnauzer #dog #actofdog #schnauzerpuppy #schnauzersofinstagram #schnauzergram #schnauzers #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #photography #apple #iphone #iphone16 #shotoniphone

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#TikkunOlam Photography begins, February 2025

Dogs get out the vote, too, November 2024

That Schnauzer stare, December 2023

She watches

Mine, not yours
London, ON
June 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

“I’m watching you, Wazowski. Always watching. Always.”

Seriously, what’s the deal with that Schnauzer stare?

#ldnont #london #ontario #canada #calli #callitheschnauzer #dog #actofdog #schnauzerpuppy #schnauzersofinstagram #schnauzergram #schnauzers #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #monochrome #photography #apple #iphone #iphone16 #shotoniphone

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Go on, I dare you, March 2025

#TikkunOlam Photography begins, February 2025

Dogs get out the vote, too, November 2024

That Schnauzer stare, December 2023

Nap like a dog

How may I help you?
London, ON
May 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

She looks like I feel right about now.

Maybe we could all use a little more nap time.

#ldnont #london #ontario #canada #calli #callitheschnauzer #dog #actofdog #schnauzerpuppy #schnauzersofinstagram #schnauzergram #schnauzers #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #photography #apple #iphone #iphone16 #shotoniphone

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All dogs deserve a Place, February 2024

That Schnauzer stare, December 2023

Dog therapy

Yes, I'm loved
London, ON
March 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

The solution for a difficult day is fairly simple, and Calli the Wonderschnauzer is happy to offer her services to anyone with treats in their pocket.

#ldnont #london #ontario #canada #calli #callitheschnauzer #dog #actofdog #schnauzerpuppy #schnauzersofinstagram #schnauzergram #schnauzers #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #photography #apple #iphone #iphone16 #shotoniphone

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That Schnauzer stare, December 2023

Marathon dog

When is this thing over?
Toronto, ON
May 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

On the sidelines of Toronto’s biggest road race, a single dog stands patiently beside her owner as the runners approach the finish line.

If I had to guess, she wasn’t terribly interested in the runners, and eventually turned her back on the course. Yet still she seemed to be smiling as I wandered past in search of a better vantage point.

I’d like to think that all dogs are happy. I know the real world often dictates otherwise, but still, it never hurts to hope.

#toronto #ontario #canada #yyz #torontomarathon #dog #actofdog #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #frenchie #streetphotography #photography #nikon #nikonphotography #nikon_photography

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Calli at 8

You're gonna have to blow out the candles
London, ON
March 2025
This photo originally shared on Instagram

My humans tell me it’s my 8th birthday today. Now, I can’t count, and I don’t really know what a birthday is, either.

But they seem rather pleased with themselves when they talk about it, and all I want is for them to be happy.

I still feel like a puppy, mind you, and I still freak out when squirrels, bunnies, and birds have the audacity to show up in my back yard. From the moment my humans first brought me home, I promised my humans I would always guard them, even if it gets a little noisy.

They give me lots of dog hugs, and while I lack opposable thumbs, I do my best to return the favour. I’ll admit it feels nice.

I never fully outgrew my chewing-on-paper phase. Come to think of it, I still scrape at the carpet, dig through the sofa, and growl at my reflection in the glass on the stove. They say I’m a weird dog, but that I’m their weird. Then they hug me again, so I’m pretty sure we’re all good.

Sometimes my daddy gets a little sad when he talks about numbers. He says he wishes I could stick around forever, but I don’t think that’s how it works.

Still, I’m a dog, so I don’t worry about the same things my humans do. I’m just glad they’re mine, and glad that every day seems to be a little more charmed than the last.

I think today will be a lot like every other day. I’ll eat a bunch of times, we’ll go for a bunch of walks, we’ll play tug-of-war with my favourite toys, then I’ll whine because I don’t like when my toys skitter behind the plant stand.

I’ll also take a nap in my big dog bed. Or in my mom’s lap. Or anywhere else the spirit moves me.

I’ll probably hide under the dining room table when it’s time to go outside, I’ll beg for handouts at dinner time, and I’ll try to grab dad’s sock as he tries to put it on.

Like I said, I’m weird, but I think in this family that’s a good thing.

Thank you for following my life ever since I first became a Levy. Thank you for being so nice to my humans, too. Now where’s my cake?

Lots of love,

Calli the Wonderschnauzer

#ldnont #london #ontario #canada #calli #callitheschnauzer #dog #actofdog #schnauzerpuppy #schnauzersofinstagram #schnauzergram #dogsofinstagram #instapuppy #apple #iphone #iphone16 #shotoniphone #photography

Related:

Calli at 7, May 2024

Calli at 6, May 2023

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Schnu to the power of 4, May 2021

Calli at 3, May 2020

Calli turns 1, May 2018

The family grows by one, again, June 2017