Jordan and Amanda Steger both grew up with dogs—he with Dobermans and Labs, she with schnauzers. When Jordan proposed, he gave Amanda a miniature schnauzer named Gage, who was by their side for 13 years before crossing the rainbow bridge four years ago.

 

As a family with three young children—Crawford (10), Josie Claire (5), and Callen (2)—the Stegers waited to get another dog until Crawford was old enough for the responsibility. Eager for a new pet, he even placed toys on Gage’s urn as a hopeful hint that he was ready. On February 28, 2025, Jordan and Amanda surprised the kids with a mini goldendoodle, picking up the puppy—born November 24, 2024—on a detour to Port Aransas while returning from Las Vegas.

 

Claire wanted to name the puppy “Charlie Sparkles,” a name she considered to be a princess name. Crawford, who was designated as the puppy’s caregiver, didn’t agree.  Meanwhile, Callen kept saying “Puppy,” which evolved into “Poppy,” then “Princess Poppy” like the Trolls character.  Jordan made it official: Princess Poppy Doodle Steger—a fitting royal name perfect for this little diva.

 

Poppy, now 18 months old and 15 pounds, is full-grown but still brimming with playful puppy energy. She has a curly, non-shedding red coat and was professionally trained at Sit Means Sit in Royse City, with ongoing refreshers during boarding. Mischievous at times, she loves unraveling toilet paper and sneaking through the backyard gate if given the chance. She’s great with the kids—especially enjoying gentle wrestling with Callen—and loves walks filled with new smells, wildlife, and friendly faces of passing neighbors and other dogs being walked in the neighborhood. Though she avoids the pool, Jordan has taught her how to swim to the edge if she falls in.

 

Crawford handles Poppy’s daily care—walking, feeding, and cleanup—and does a great job. She sleeps with him but if sleepy before bedtime, will happily go into her kennel and wait. The family enforces a strict no–people food rule, though Poppy still waits under Callen’s chair hoping for crumbs. She loves her doggie treats—long-lasting chewy bully sticks that are packed with protein, are great for dental hygiene and most importantly, have helped her get past the puppy chewing phase.

 

After waiting three years to get another puppy, the Stegers agree it was worth it. Poppy is a perfect fit for their family—especially for Crawford, who’s learned the responsibility and love that come with pet ownership. Jordan, Amanda and the kids look forward to many years of joyful fun, happiness and companionship Poppy brings to their home and family.

To learn more about how you can become a partner with Stroll Buffalo Creek please reach out to Teri Preas
teri.preas@n2co.com
https://linktr.ee/marketingsolutionsbyteri