You know those people (and pups) who instantly make you smile? That’s Lucy Carrington and her Dalmatian, Rio. Based in sunny Perth, Australia, these two have become a total vibe on social media, known for their effortlessly cool matching outfits, playful energy, and a bond that’s as real as it gets.
What started as a fun video turned into something much bigger: millions of views, countless outfit combos, and a whole community of dog lovers who just can’t get enough. But behind the cute fits and viral reels is a story of genuine friendship, a lot of love, and one very cheeky dog with serious main-character energy.
We caught up with Lucy to chat all things fashion, life with Rio, and what it’s really like to be besties with a four-legged superstar. Trust us, this is one duo that will steal your heart (and probably your snacks).
Hey Lucy Carrington, welcome to Dogopo.com! Thanks so much for chatting with us – we’re huge fans of your matching looks with your gorgeous Dalmatian, Rio. You’re such a vibe, and we love how you mix everyday style with a whole lot of personality (and a whole lot of spots)! Before we jump in, tell us: where are you both based right now, and what’s a typical day like for you and Rio in your city?
We’re based in Perth, Australia! Most mornings start with a big park walk , Rio has energy for days, so i usually walk around 5km around a park while Rio follows in-between having wrestling matches with his besties. After that, he’ll nap while I get ready to film content. He’s always close by he follows me around from room to room like a little shadow! Evenings are more relaxed he gets his dinner, followed by lots of cuddles on the couch
As a dog mom to the ever-stylish Rio, can you tell us a bit about his breed and what makes him such a star in your content?
Rio is a Dalmatian which are know for their unique coat! I’ve been fascinated by their uniqueness and bread from a very young age! honestly.. Rio is the main character. not just online but also in real life! he has such a BIG personality! he loves EVERYONE he meets! every time were at the park he will have to go up to every single person and dog to say hello. He’s cheeky, a little stubborn, and extremely affectionate and he always knows when the camera is on! The Cheese comes out and he knows he’s in acting mode!
When did you first decide, “Yep, Rio and I are going to match,” and how did people react the first time you stepped out in your coordinated fits?
It started as a joke! there was a trend going around where people were showing their outfits with their partners or friends, I thought it would be funny to do it with Rio! he had maybe 4 or 5 dog coats at the time and I pulled things I had in my wardrobe that matched! I posted it late before I went to bed one night and then when I woke up it was already at 2 million views! I’ve never had a video pop off like that before. so I did it again and again and even now 2 years later they still get millions of views! people just LOVE it!
Being petite and stylish is no easy combo, but you make it look effortless! How do you choose outfits that work for your height and still match Rio’s vibe?
Aw, thank you! I’ve learned to stick with pieces that elongate my frame, high waisted bottoms, cropped jackets, anything that balances proportions. And when it comes to matching Rio, I usually pick his outfits first and then source mine to match as its hard to find coats in his size! the trick is to keep the shade or pattern almost identical even if the style isn’t the same. it takes me HOURS of searching online to match every outfit the same!
Be honest… is Rio a natural in front of the camera or does he need a few treats to strike a pose? Any funny behind-the-scenes stories you haven’t shared before?
Yes there’s defiantly plenty of treats on hand! its so funny I’ve now filmed content with him so much that when the cheese comes out he changes his mood! its like he’s in acting mode and he’s on and alert. he now knows exactly where I want him to sit and what to do with little to no direction, I can just make the slightest noise and he knows. its so funny to see him switch into work mode! he loves it, mainly because he loves cheese hahah and he doesn’t mind wearing the outfits. in fact it doesn’t bother him at all. I only have so long before he’s had enough, he’s a very vocal dog so he will let me know when he’s had enough .
Do you shop for Rio the way you shop for yourself? Any go-to brands you love for pet fashion?
I wish I could shop for him like I shop for myself. its actually really hard to buy outfits from him. you can get coats and jackets for small dogs so easily but for big dogs his size its very hard! my go to is @ Kmart Australia! they are really good quality and go up to size XXL. they always bring out a new range of outfits for every season its so cute! my next go to is SHEIN they have lots of styles but not many that come in large sizes.
How has having Rio in your life changed you, not just style-wise, but emotionally or even in your day-to-day mindset?
He’s changed me so much. Having Rio gave me a sense of routine and responsibility in the best way. Emotionally, he’s been such a source of comfort. I live so far away from family so he is my family. its crazy how close we are, I literally cant imagine life without him and try to take him with me everywhere I go.
What’s one thing about your bond with Rio that people don’t see on social media?
we do everything together, I take him everywhere with me. it probably hasn’t helped as now he is very attached to me. he looks for me everywhere, which is great when he’s off lead as he’s always looking for me and close by. however not so great when I do have to leave…! its funny though he is obsessed with me and looking for me when were out the house but when were at home he is obsessed with my partner. he will defiantly cuddle up to him on the couch over me! but then when its bed time he will come and cuddle with me. he’s the funniest dog with the weirdest quirks hahah
Okay, fun one: if Rio could describe you in three words (or three barks!), what would they be?
Hmm…obsessive, annoying, loving haha
And finally, is there anything else you’d like to share about you and Rio before we wrap up?
Just that I never expected matching outfits with my dog to become such a joyful part of my life, but here we are! It’s brought so many smiles to others and allowed me to connect with such a supportive, dog-loving community. Rio and I feel the love, and we’re so grateful.
Thanks again for having us, Rio is getting an extra cuddle from me right now on behalf of the Dogopo team! 🐾