That Dood Squad: Atlanta’s Viral Doodle Dog Friend Group

That Dood Squad: Seven Women, Seven Doodles, and One Unbreakable Bond

Meet the ultimate Atlanta friend group: seven women—and their adorable doodle dogs—who turned casual meetups into the most epic pack of pals, creating viral moments, giving back to the community, and redefining what it means to have a furry best friend. Welcome to the world of That Dood Squad.

The Origin Story: Paws, Playdates, and Serendipity

Kim McNamara never imagined that stepping into the world of doodle dog meetups would transform her social life. In bustling Atlanta, it was her sheepadoodle Addie who led her into a circle of women linked by their love of furry companions. What started as a few casual events quickly became a regular tradition. When Kim and fellow organizer Stephanie spearheaded several dog meet-ups, they had no clue that, out of the 200-plus attendees, a core group of seven would form such a special squad.

• Kim McNamara & Addie (Sheepadoodle)
• Lauren & Packer (Goldendoodle)
• Shelby Steckbauer & Lola (Goldendoodle)
• Jennifer & Charlie (Goldendoodle)
• Stephanie & Charlie Gold (Goldendoodle)
• Marianne & Riley (Mini Goldendoodle)
• Sara & Sheldon (Cockapoo)

Their bond was sealed not just by their shared affection for doodles, but by their humor, their joy in each other’s company, and the delight their dogs brought to every gathering. Most of the women met through their pups and, as Kim recalls, “In a pawfect world, we would all be stay-at-home dog moms.” Their brunches, adventures, and hangouts soon became the stuff of legend — for humans and canines alike.

From Playdates to Epic Adventures

What does a week in the life of That Dood Squad look like? Playdates at local dog parks, themed brunches at pet-friendly restaurants, and regular gatherings in backyards as the pups roam and play freely. Their get-togethers aren’t just about the dogs — it’s a time for both ‘fluffy’ and ’non-fluffy’ friends to unwind, share stories, and enjoy life together.

• Brunches at dog-friendly cafes in Atlanta
• Boutique shopping trips (always finding stores that welcome pups!)
• Organized birthday parties for each dog
• Weekly playdates and monthly Sunday brunches—including donuts for the humans while the doodles burn off energy outside

But the fun doesn’t stop at casual meetups. The squad has explored lavender fields, posed among pumpkin patches, conquered hiking trails, and occasionally strutted down Atlanta’s humming city streets. Every event is a memory in the making, both for the women and their four-legged sidekicks.

Ultimate Paw-Models: Social Media and Viral Moments

If you think this group is Insta-famous, you’re not wrong. Thanks to Shelby Steckbauer, a talented photographer and dog-mom to Lola, the squad’s group shoots quickly gained a following online. Their signature look? Seven grinning doodles piled into Kim’s vintage 1967 MGB, decked out with accessories, seasonal costumes, and of course, lot of personality.

• The first big photo op at Big John’s Christmas Trees in Dunwoody went viral, landing them spots in national and local media.
• Monthly photo shoots circle around themes—from the Olympics to Valentine’s Day—with each dog donning unique outfits, props, or colors.
• The group’s hashtag: #rollinwiththedoodles captures the spirit of fun, adventure, and friendship they share. Each dog has their own Instagram account with followers who track their latest escapades.

Between all-star costumes and genuine moments of laughter and chaos behind the scenes, the social media phenomenon has taken on a life of its own. Shelby admits, “We’re talking to them constantly. Sometimes we use a little shaker to catch their attention. The trick is just getting that one perfect shot.” Behind every polished group photo is a parade of bloopers and a lot of treats!

Behind the Glam: What It Takes for Picture-Perfect Pups

On Instagram, the dogs always seem perfectly posed. But reality is less glamorous. Getting all seven doodles to look at the camera simultaneously takes patience, laughter, and a deep stash of treats. Their human moms have mastered the art of group dog-wrangling—whether it involves funny noises, waving toys, or orchestrating coordinated commands (“STAY!”).

Most importantly, “they know when it’s time to work and pose,” says Kim. The group prides itself on their pups’ manners; each dog is well-socialized, obedient, and has passed the Canine Good Citizens Test (CGC). It’s not just about looking good for Instagram — it’s the result of dedicated training and a genuine bond between dog moms and their doods.

Fashion is serious business, too. These pups model for everything from small bandana companies to big-name brands like Nordstrom and Whole Foods. Their wardrobes rival those of many celebrities!

Community Impact: Therapy, Volunteering, and Giving Back

Two of the squad’s doodles, Addie and Charlie Gold, serve as certified therapy dogs with Happy Tails Pet Therapy. They regularly visit hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and senior facilities, spreading joy and comfort wherever they go. In fact, four of the squad’s dogs have earned therapy dog certifications and partake in community outreach.

• Visits to medical centers and eldercare homes
• Participating in charity and awareness events
• Feature appearances in local magazines, TV stations, and even wedding shoots

The dogs are rewarded with affection, extra treats, and plenty of playtime for their efforts—not to mention the admiration of their fans both in-person and online.

When Doodles Go Viral: Media Appearances and Local Celebrity

Thanks to their photogenic ways and spirited sense of adventure, That Dood Squad have become bona fide celebrities in Atlanta and beyond. A single viral photo from a local tree farm catapulted them into the spotlight, attracting features from major media outlets and even earning them tens of thousands of followers online.

• Featured on platforms such as Country Living, Good Morning America, and more
• Invited as special guests at community events and on TV shows
• Recognized wherever they show up for group photo shoots

As Kim puts it, “We snicker and wonder if we are becoming ‘stage moms.’ But the truth is, it’s all about the happiness these moments bring to both the dogs and the people who see them.”

Sisterhood, Support, and the Power of Community

At its heart, That Dood Squad is about much more than cute dogs and viral fame. The group has given seven women a deep sense of support and connection—a safe space for laughter, advice, celebration, and even life’s tougher moments. “We put our dogs before our boyfriends and husbands (whoops!),” Kim jokes. The motto: Doods before dudes—and sometimes even football games are skipped in favor of a doodle playdate.

This unique friend group proves that forging connection and happiness can come from the most unexpected places. Their positivity—not just online, but in their daily lives—has touched countless others in their community and beyond.

Meet the Squad: At a Glance

How to Build Your Own Canine Crew

Inspired by That Dood Squad? You can foster this kind of community by:

• Attending local pet meetups or starting your own
• Seeking out dog-friendly cafes and community spots
• Pursuing training for your dog (Canine Good Citizen Test, therapy dog certification, etc.)
• Documenting your dog’s (and your) adventures through photos and social media
• Volunteering together at animal-focused charities or events

Remember, what matters most isn’t viral fame—it’s the happiness you and your pup bring to each other and your community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is a doodle?

A: “Doodle” refers to any poodle mix (like goldendoodles, sheepadoodles, cockapoos) known for their intelligence, curly coats, and friendly nature.

Q: How did That Dood Squad begin?

A: It began with casual dog meetups in Atlanta, where seven women and their doodles formed a lasting friendship based on their love of dogs and community activities.

Q: Do the dogs really get their own birthday parties?

A: Yes! Each doodle has their own party with treats, decorations, and photoshoots—complete with cake and playtime for their furry friends.

Q: Are the dogs trained or certified?

A: All the squad’s doodles are well-behaved and have passed the Canine Good Citizen Test; several are also certified therapy dogs active in the community.

Q: Where can we follow That Dood Squad?

A: Each doodle and their group have Instagram accounts, regularly sharing their adventures and photo shoots with a growing fanbase.

Final Thoughts: Doods Before Dudes (and Why It Matters)

For Atlanta’s That Dood Squad, the journey is about more than pets or even friendship: it’s about building joy, spreading smiles, and proving that sometimes, your dog really can change your life—and your community—forever.