Hi, I’m Magge​

​

I’m the heart behind Picking Your Pup and a recent graduate of Oregon State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences with a minor in Agricultural Sciences, focusing on companion animal and equine science.

​

My education is backed by years of hands-on experience with animals, especially dogs. I’ve worked with more than 40 dogs, raised many from puppies, and spent over six years training and showing dogs through 4-H.

​

A large part of my experience has been with breeds that are sometimes misunderstood, particularly German Shepherds. They taught me firsthand that choosing a dog based on appearance or reputation can lead to unrealistic expectations. Every breed, and every individual dog, has different needs, energy levels, temperaments, and ways of connecting with their people.

​

My dogs have shaped my understanding of the human-dog relationship just as much as my education has. My heart dog, Tucker, was a deeply sensitive German Shepherd who taught me the incredible depth of connection you can share with a dog. My Australian Shepherd, Scout, had a very different personality and a different relationship with me, but the love I had for her ran just as deep.

 

They taught me that the right match isn’t about finding the dog you want, it’s about finding a dog who can truly thrive in the life you can provide.

​

That’s why I created Picking Your Pup: to help people look beyond appearance and make informed decisions about breed, temperament, lifestyle, and responsible sourcing.

​

Whether you choose to shop responsibly or adopt responsibly, responsible sourcing matters.

​

My Mission

​

Pick wisely. Love endlessly.

​

Why Choose Me?

​

With an Animal Sciences background and years of hands-on experience, I share practical, honest information to help you choose the right dog, better understand misunderstood breeds, and build a lifelong relationship with your companion.