In the heart of the bustling streets of Chelsea, New York City, a heartwarming story unfolds daily, starring Louboutina, a beloved Golden Retriever who has become a local sensation. Known as “Loubie” to her friends and followers, this adorable pup has amassed over 58,000 Instagram fans, and it’s all thanks to her endearing habit of offering hugs to strangers she meets on her daily walks.
Golden Retrievers have long been celebrated for their gentle and loving nature, often regarded as the quintessential family companion. Louboutina, named after a French shoe designer, exemplifies this reputation as she spends at least two hours each day extending her paw of friendship to anyone she encounters.
“It’s just not your typical trek,” says Loubie’s owner, Fernandez-Chavez, with a smile. Indeed, their daily stroll is anything but ordinary. It’s a journey filled with warmth and embraces. Many people Loubie encounters on her walks express how she brightens their day, serving as a source of comfort and joy, especially after a tough day at work.
Loubie’s journey of spreading love began in 2014 when Fernandez-Chavez’s relationship ended. The sweet pup started sitting up and grasping his hands with both paws, even crossing one paw over the other in a gesture of affection. Fernandez-Chavez recalls how he and his friends used to playfully say, “At least I had someone to hold hands with on Valentine’s Day,” thanks to Loubie’s unwavering companionship.
But Louboutina is more than just a local sensation; she’s an ambassador of love and kindness. In the heart of Chelsea, a unique and heartwarming experience awaits those seeking solace in Loubie’s hugs. Meet Louboutina, New York City’s beloved hugging dog, and let her brighten your day with her boundless affection.
Loubie and Fernandez-Chavez have been holding hands, or rather paws, since that Valentine’s Day in 2014. Her endearing habit of standing up, clasping his hands with both paws, and crossing one paw over the other has become a symbol of love and connection. Every day, this golden retriever dedicates nearly two hours to spreading happiness through her heartwarming hugs. It’s not just a walk; it’s a journey filled with embraces.
As Fernandez-Chavez puts it, “People say she made their day better… For example, if someone had a stressful day at work, that may be precisely what they needed.” He realized that the entire world could benefit from a dose of the love that his remarkable dog can provide.
Louboutina, the Hugging Golden Retriever, is a testament to the power of love and compassion in a world that sometimes feels chaotic and divided. Her story reminds us that small gestures of kindness, like a warm hug, can make a significant difference in the lives of strangers. In the heart of New York City, Loubie’s daily hugs serve as a heartwarming reminder of the love that connects us all, transcending language, culture, and background. She may be a dog, but her ability to spread love and joy is a lesson for us all.