The past weekend was a special one for our family because Russell turned 11!

Russell has been my constant companion since I adopted him on Superbowl Sunday back in 2012. He’s been the one constant throughout many personal and professional changes, including moving to Orange County. He was even part of our engagement in Palos Verdes! But that’s a story for another time.

My husband and I don’t ever really need a reason to celebrate Russell. But wanted to make a point to celebrate him and his health on his birthday especially as he enters another year of seniorhood. I know how fortunate we are that he is as healthy and vivacious as he is, especially at his age, and wanted to do something a little special for his 11th birthday.

Celebrating with Cake and Car Rides

And what better way to celebrate than with cake and time with his favorite humans? Russell is a bit of an introvert, so rather than subject him to a big party, we did a few of his favorite things.

We took him out for a car ride (one of his favorite things), out to brunch (another one of his favorite things), and then to the Orange dog park.

I also made a simple dog cake with coconut whipped cream, which he promptly and happily dug into. If you’re interested in making a dog cake, I’ve included the recipe below!

I ordered a simple cake topper from Hola Lola Gifts on Etsy, which I love not only because it adds a personal touch but also because I can reuse it year after year.

Learning about Russell’s Heritage through DNA testing

I adopted Russell when he was 9 months old, from a Long Beach dog rescue organization. I didn’t know much about his origins, but had always been curious.

We decided to order a dog dna test from Wisdom Panel (not an ad) so we could get to know him a little better.

I’d been told that he was a Jack Russell mix. I just assumed that was the case all these years. His markings and colors do resemble a Jack Russell, although his fur is much softer and longer than a typical Jack Russell terrier.

They sent us a dna test kit in the mail which we used to swab his cheeks and then sent back to the lab. A few weeks later, we were emailed the results! They definitely took us by surprise.

Take a peek for yourself!

We had our guesses, but we never imagined he would be part shih tzu, let alone 32%! He definitely resembles a long haired chihuahua, has a spitz like curly tail, and long soft fur which crimps around his ears similar to a cocker spaniel. That said, it’s difficult to see how he resembles a shih tzu.

The most surprising part was that he does not have any genetic markers for a Jack Russell Terrier! The happiest was learning that he was clear for all 29 genetic conditions that are medically concerning.

All in all, it was a beautiful weekend spent celebrating and learning about our favorite pup. We couldn’t be more thankful for each moment we get to share with him.

Thanks so much for reading! If you do end up trying the cake recipe, I’d love to know how it went!