To celebrate National Dog Day the Times caught up with Chewbarker’s Grandmother Felicity Gibbs-Carson to hear all about this [wo]man’s best friend and take a tour of Chewbarker’s impressive wardrobe. 

It was May 21, 2012 on Kashyyyk, otherwise known as a backyard at Sussex, when Chewbarker or ‘Chewie’ was born. 

From day one it was known that Chewie was destined for greatness and she quickly teamed up with a young, scruffy-looking nerfherder, with the looks of a young Harrison Ford, named Tristan. 

They packed their bags, moved to Ulladulla and started on a mission to educate people that not all big dogs are scary. 

“Most people see big dogs and think they are really vicious, but it’s about how you bring them up,” Felicity said.

“It all comes down to how they are raised and treated.

“Chewie is an American Staffy and a delight.

“She has the most soft and gentle nature, although she can be a big klutz and has a very noisy bark.”

Chewie's Dad Tristan started a Facebook page dedicated to the dog four years ago as a way of sharing cute puppy photos with friends and family, but over the years it has taken on a life of its own.

“Chewbarker has over 4,000 followers on Facebook from all over the world,” Felicity said. 

As Chewie’s parents grew busy with work and a young baby, Felicity took over the management of Chewie’s page and she loves it.

“The best thing about Chewie’s page is that it brings people together and it’s wonderful to see how the love of this dog can go around the world,” she said.

“She has friends that contact her every day to say how much they love her and that seeing her photos makes their day.

“It also makes my day and I have made some very close friends thanks to Chewie.”

Felicity said the happiness, love and joy she has seen Chewie’s fans show has restored my faith in humanity.

“Chewie receives gifts from all over the word,” she said.

“Handmade toys and jackets from America, dog biscuits, even a toy Chewbacca and many, many Christmas cards.

“It’s so touching that people care.”

Over the years, Chewie’s life mission has seen Felicity explore the world of canine-fashion.

Felicity believes it is through Chewie’s modelling the world is able to see just how gentle, patient and kind large-breed dogs can be.

“She has been wearing hats and costumes for years,” she said,

“Chewie sits very patiently when she sees a camera; she even strikes a pose.”

Felicity loves spending time with Chewie and hopes that through the Facebook page she is able to not only educate people, but to put an extra smile into every day.

“Not only does Chewbarker make you smile, but she has a way of bringing the very best out of people,” Felicity said.

“After all the world is a very small place and it’s the love and the kindness we give to each other that makes it all worthwhile.

“Chewie is all about education and love.”