From international runways to global stages, Victoria Jancke is a force of nature, empowering women, building heartfelt communities, and living life with passion and purpose. Born in Berlin, Germany, and now based between Los Angeles and Miami, Victoria is an award-winning speaker, model, and fempreneur whose mission is as powerful as it is personal.
Honored with the prestigious United Nations Global Impact Award for Community Building, Victoria’s work through Grow & Glow Women has created safe, transformative spaces where women connect, heal, and thrive. Whether she’s hosting her chart-topping podcast Living in Your Feminine, speaking to audiences around the world, or leading her empowering workshops and retreats, Victoria brings authenticity, grace, and soul to everything she does.
But behind the glamour and the global recognition, there’s also a softer, playful side—Victoria is a proud dog mom! In this special Dogopo interview, she opens up about her bond with her pup, the joy pets bring into our lives, and how that unconditional love fits into her journey of empowerment and healing.
Let’s dive in and get to know Victoria—the community builder, fempreneur, and devoted dog mom.
Hey Victoria, welcome to dogopo and thank you for joining us today! Could you tell us about your furry companion? What is his/her name, breed, and personality?
Thank you for having me! My furry little soulmate is named Winnie—after Winnie the Pooh. As a child and teenager, I absolutely loved Winnie the Pooh. And when I first saw my Winnie, I thought, “Oh my God, he’s just like him!” So cuddly, so loving, and even the same color. I know “Winnie” is usually a girl’s name, but I always say—he’s named just like Winnie the Pooh!
Winnie is a Havapoo (a Havanese–Poodle mix), and honestly, he’s the sweetest, most intuitive soul. He’s playful, gentle, and always seems to know exactly how I’m feeling. He’s truly my spirit animal—it feels like we’re one soul just enjoying life side by side.
What inspired you to become a dog mom? Did you grow up with pets or was this a new journey for you?
I always dreamed of having a dog since I was a little girl, but my parents never allowed it. As a child, I had a hamster, a rabbit, and a budgie. I loved them all deeply. But a dog was always my biggest wish.
During the pandemic, when life slowed down and I finally had the time and emotional space, I got Winnie in Germany. It truly changed everything. Becoming a dog mom felt like fulfilling a lifelong dream and giving my inner child the best friend she always longed for.
How has your dog changed your daily life or routine, especially given your busy career as a model, actress, and presenter?
Winnie grounds me. No matter how fast-paced or chaotic my schedule gets—photoshoots, castings, events—he reminds me to pause and just be. Morning cuddles and daily walks became sacred rituals. He brings rhythm, softness, and presence to my everyday life.
He also taught me to be more in tune with myself—his calm, loving energy has been a gift in a world that’s often performance-driven and overwhelming.
Do you take your pup with you while travelling or working internationally? Any fun stories from those experiences?
Yes! I moved to the United States with Winnie, and he’s been by my side across cities and countries. He’s flown in private jets, stayed in beautiful 5 star hotels, and joined me backstage on TV sets. He adapts so well and brings this calming, joyful presence wherever we go.
One of the funniest moments happened while we were filming for my TV show at a gorgeous villa owned by a very well-known Hollywood producer. The producer warned me, “Just keep an eye on your dog—there’s a pond.” And I was like, “Yeah, he’s fine!” So we’re filming the interview, and suddenly I hear a huge splash. Winnie had fallen into the pond and couldn’t get out!
I screamed and had to jump in to pull him out—and of course, the cameras caught everything. We made a big mess. Afterwards, the crew interviewed me and asked how I felt. I said, “Imagine going to Leonardo DiCaprio’s house, and your dog poops on his Oscar—that’s how I felt!”
Embarrassing in the moment—but now it’s one of my funniest memories.
What are your favourite things to do together – walks, cuddles, playtime?
Cuddles are definitely our thing—especially in the mornings. But what I love most is going on little adventures with him. We explore new places, take walks, and enjoy the beach.
One of my favorite things is going to the beach in Miami. Winnie loves to swim in the ocean. When I go in the water, he follows me—and then I hold him while we float together. It’s honestly the cutest and most heartwarming thing. Moments like these make me feel like we’re truly connected on a soul level.
How do you care for your dog’s health and happiness? Any tips or products you swear by?
Winnie has a lot of food allergies, which was really difficult in the beginning. He was throwing up a lot and feeling sick until we did extensive testing and finally found out that he’s allergic to things like peas, potatoes, rice—basically, ingredients found in most regular dog foods.
So I used to bring special veterinary food from Germany, and now I’ve found a great organic brand in the U.S. that works well for him. In the mornings, he gets wet food, and because he’s a picky eater, I leave his dry food out for him to nibble on during the day.
I also give him organic treats, but he really loves fresh snacks like cucumber and cooked carrots. I believe fresh, clean food is just as important for dogs as it is for us. His nutrition is an act of love—and a big part of how I care for him every day.
Can you share a special moment or memory that really captures the bond between you two?
There are so many, but one moment I’ll never forget is the day I picked him up from the breeder. We were sitting in the car, and he was resting in my arms. He looked up at me with so much pure love in his eyes—it completely melted my heart. I remember thinking, “This little soul chose me.” I already loved him so deeply and silently promised: I will love you unconditionally and care for you for the rest of your life.
Winnie is so intuitive. When I’m emotional or crying, he’ll do the sweetest things to cheer me up—licking my face in this ticklish way or jumping up like he’s saying, “Hey, I’m here. You’ve got this.”
There was also a time when I was going through a deep depressive phase. And even then, Winnie helped me find my way back to the light—because I had to go outside with him, move my body, breathe, and reconnect with the world. He gave me a reason to keep going when everything felt heavy. He’s my emotional support, my comfort, and my joy—all wrapped up in one fluffy little body.
What do you think we can all learn from dogs when it comes to love, loyalty, and living in the moment?
Unconditional love—that’s the greatest lesson. Dogs don’t care about your flaws or achievements. They love you exactly as you are. And their loyalty is unmatched—they know you’re their person, and they’ll always show up for you.
Winnie reminds me to appreciate the little things. He gets so excited for a simple walk or a meal. That joy in everyday moments teaches me to slow down, be present, and find happiness in simplicity. If we loved and lived like dogs do—pure, joyful, and without judgment—the world would be a better place.
Finally, what message would you like to share with other dog lovers and aspiring pet parents around the world?
People often say, “Dogs take so much time and responsibility.” But honestly, I have a full schedule—and Winnie is a part of that busy life. He travels with me, adapts with me, and when I can’t bring him, I have a trusted dog sitter. But most of the time, he’s by my side—and we make it work beautifully.
Dogs don’t make life harder. They make it deeper, richer, more joyful. They give you purpose, comfort, and a kind of unconditional love that’s truly rare.
Winnie gave me laughter when I cried, strength when I was weak, and love when I felt alone. If you’re thinking about becoming a dog parent: you’ll always find a way—because what you gain is pure magic. Dogs aren’t just pets. They’re soulmates. They’re family. They’re healers. They’re home.
If you’d like to know more about these two stars, don’t forget to follow them on Instagram:
Winnie – @winnie.havapoo
Victoria – @victoria.jancke