When Alex adopted Monroe, a unique rescue dog, little did he know that their journey together would turn into a heartwarming, Instagram-famous story. Their bond, filled with funny moments, quirks, and a love for bars and cocktails, would lead to the creation of Monroe the Bar Hopping Dog, a beloved social media account that would bring joy to dog lovers worldwide. I’m lucky enough to call Alex my dear cousin! I asked if he’d be interested in sitting down for an “interview” that I could share with all of you. He said yes. It was really just a fun conversation, not really an interview. Even though I’m familiar with Alex and Monroe, I loved hearing more details about their story.
I hope you love reading about Monroe The Barhopping Dog!
Monroe’s Instagram Journey
Monroe’s story began seven years ago when Alex and his wife adopted him from Emerald City Pet Rescue in Seattle. Living in the lively Belltown neighborhood, known for its bustling bars and clubs, they quickly realized Monroe wasn’t just an ordinary dog. He had a special connection to the local scene. “He would always walk into bars, go behind the bar, and sit next to the bartender,” Alex recalled. “We assumed his previous owner must have been a bartender.”
This behavior, along with Monroe’s naturally laid-back and social personality, earned him a reputation in the neighborhood. As he wandered into every bar, making friends with the bartenders, barflies, and other pups, Alex and his wife decided to share Monroe’s adventures on Instagram. Initially, the account was called Monroe Fairbanks, but it was quickly changed to “Monroe the Bar Hopping Dog” to better reflect his personality.
Over time, Alex, an extremely talented artist, started drawing cartoon versions of Monroe, capturing his playful spirit. These illustrations, paired with the dog’s growing fame, led to fan requests. People began sending photos of their own pets alongside their favorite cocktails, and Alex would draw them in playful scenarios with Monroe. I love seeing what he creates!
A Funny Corgi-A-Thon Moment
Monroe’s quirky personality and distinctive look have always been a point of conversation. With his short body, big ears, and poodle mix appearance, people often wonder about his breed. After completing a DNA test, Alex and his wife discovered that Monroe was 30% corgi. This revelation led to a hilarious moment at a local corgi event, where Monroe was invited to a “corgi-a-thon” full of over 120 corgis.
While Monroe’s distinctive look earned him a place in the corgi crowd, he stood out like a sore thumb. “There were all these corgis, and then there’s Monroe, just standing out in his white poodle coat,” Alex laughed.
Despite the differences, people could see the corgi in Monroe, and it became one of their most memorable moments.
A Favorite Photo
For Alex, one of the most memorable images of Monroe is one that captures his pure joy. “There’s this photo where Monroe looks like he’s in full laughter mode,” Alex recalled, mentioning Monroe’s RUFFined Spotlight article. “He looks so happy, and it’s a reminder of how much joy he brings into our lives.”
One of Monroe’s favorite toys is the yellow ball in the photo. When Monroe plays with it, he transforms from a lazy, chill dog into a playful puppy, showing off his boundless energy. Alex fondly remembers how Monroe’s playful side lights up the room whenever the ball is involved.
The Unexpected Addition of Gimlet
Two years ago, the same rescue center that gave Monroe a home contacted Alex with a surprising update: they had found another dog that looked just like Monroe. Enter Gimlet, a tiny dog with big ears, who quickly became part of the family. Though Monroe and Gimlet looked like they were cut from the same cloth, their personalities were worlds apart.
Gimlet, a 12-year-old rescue, had a much calmer and quirky nature (ie, she sleeps all day). She experienced a few health setbacks shortly after being adopted. “She broke four legs and three ribs in her first month with us,” Alex shared. “And then, we had to remove 23 of her teeth!” Despite the challenges, and stealing from his special car fund, Alex and his family are devoted to their new family member. They joke about how Monroe is the star of the show. “Monroe makes us money with his drawings and merch, but Gimlet is more of a liability,” Alex laughed. Oh well, I hope Alex gets his Karmann Ghia someday!
(Shortly after our interview, we learned that sweet Gimlet passed away. We’re so sorry for the loss of their pup, and know that she had such a beautiful life with Alex’s family. Losing a pet is never easy and we hope that they can look back on their memories of Gimlet with a smile while knowing that she is smiling down on them across the Rainbow Bridge)
Drawing Dogs and Creating Connections
Alex’s creative approach to social media has also fostered a special connection with Monroe’s followers. Over time, Alex has followed and built relationships with other dog accounts. He began drawing portraits of other pets, particularly dogs that had passed away. “Whenever we see a pet friend that has passed, we draw a picture and send it to the owner,” Alex said. “We don’t put it on Instagram or sell it, we just want to give people something to remember their pets by.”
This thoughtful gesture has created a strong sense of community on Monroe’s account, where followers share stories and experiences about their own dogs, and where Monroe’s art is appreciated in ways Alex never anticipated.
Lessons Learned from Monroe’s Fame
Monroe’s Instagram presence has taught Alex some valuable lessons. “People don’t know me; they know Monroe,” he said, reflecting on how Monroe’s fame has made him a beloved figure, even in places where Alex is a stranger.
Alex also learned that while people may get sensitive about drawings of themselves, they’re always happy when it’s of their dogs.
But perhaps the most important lesson Alex shares is the responsibility of adopting a dog. Monroe’s story isn’t just about his Instagram fame—it's about the lasting bond he shares with his family. “When you adopt a dog, it’s for life,” Alex said. “It’s important to remember that you’re responsible for that dog, no matter what.”
It turns out sweet Monroe was returned to the animal shelter twice before being adopted by Alex. Every dog’s story is unique, but some dog owners wouldn’t have even considered a pet returned twice, even though none of it was Monroe’s fault. Every pup deserves another chance at a happy life.
Cheers to Monroe
His Instagram account not only showcases his love for bars, cocktails, and art, but also highlights the deeper connection Alex and his family have with him. Whether through drawings or just a simple walk through Seattle, Monroe continues to bring people together and remind us all that the love between a dog and their owner is truly one-of-a-kind.
Thank you so much for reading this feature. Don’t forget to follow Monroe here.
Check out their Amazon store here for fun merch!
