Nederlandse Kooikerhondje Dog Names

According to Dutch News, the name Max, a name that means great or greatest, has been the most popular name for Dutch dogs such as the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje for the last three years, followed by Pip, Bella, Bailey, and Bo. Due to their "new kid on the block" status with the American Kennel Club, one is pretty hard pressed to find one of this breed in pop culture. However, a dog with this popular Dutch dog name is making a name for himself in his neighborhood. In the town of Idyllwild, California, Mayor Max, a Golden Retriever who’s full name is Maximus Mighty Dog Mueller II, is the most popular of dogs. In 2012, the town had its first mayoral election, but instead of voting for the traditional human politician, all candidates were either canine or feline. According to the mayors' chief of staff and human companion, Phyllis Mueller, instead of running themselves, local pet parents chose to put their animals up for election. In this case, votes were purchased by residents for a dollar each, with all proceeds benefiting the local animal shelter. Fourteen canine candidates and two felines vied for the title in 2012, and that first year, it was Max’s uncle, also named Maximus Mighty Dog Mueller, who won the election, garnering around $31,000 for the Idyllwild Animal Rescue Freinds. 

Unfortunately, Max the first died shortly after assuming office, passing over the rainbow bridge on July 21, 2013. Fortunately for the town of Idyllwild, Max the second, just a puppy in a tie at the time, was available to take on his uncle’s role, and the mayoral transition went well. His official role in his position as mayor is to “make the world a better place by conveying unconditional love and doing many good deeds for others” according to Mueller. He does this by helping girl scouts, making hospital rounds, and attending community events and fundraisers as well as making approximately two public appearances each day, with Phyllis Mueller sometimes handing out business cards and small stuffed animals in Max’s likeness. His appearance at events helps to increase attendance and pique citizen interest and participation in politics and community involvement, a job that can be particularly important after challenging situations like the Cranston Wildfire- when community attendance at events like the Art Walk and Wine Tasting can help to more effectively fund recovery efforts. It seems, however, that nepotism is just as common in the canine world as in the human world and Max has enlisted the assistance of his cousins, Mitzi and Mikey, who have been named as Deputy mayors and often attend events with the mayor, especially large events. The team has earned a few nicknames around town, including “the Mayor and the spares” and simply “the Mayors of Idyllwild.”