Two English gentlemen exploring the Carolinas.
When Ashlee and Rob Munford moved from England to Charlotte, two very important family members came along for the adventure: Bruno and Benji, their beloved German shepherds.
The pair's story began overseas during Covid. Benji, now 6, was the couple's first dog, and his striking blue coat immediately caught their attention. About a year later, just one week after Ashlee and Rob were married, Bruno joined the family. The handsome black shepherd came from a line of police working dogs, and with six tiny white hairs on his chest, just like the Munfords' beloved black cat they had recently lost, it felt like fate.
Rob, a devoted Manchester United fan, named Bruno after midfielder Bruno Fernandes. Benji? His name simply fit the moment they met him.
Like many German shepherds, the boys prefer to be wherever their people are. Bruno usually claims most of the space at the foot of the bed, while Benji happily settles beside it on the floor. Their toy collection rivals that of many children, although Bruno isn't always interested in sharing his favorite balls, frisbees, sticks and rope toys. Lately, he's also developed a fondness for carrying throw pillows around the house.
Each dog has a personality all his own. Bruno insists on greeting everyone at the door with something in his mouth, whether it's a toy, shoe or cushion. Benji could spend hours watching squirrels from the yard, and both dogs somehow know exactly when Rob is due home from work, faithfully waiting by the window for his arrival.
The adventurous pair once loved roaming England's forests and countryside off leash, and today they enjoy discovering hiking trails, waterfalls and dog-friendly parks throughout North Carolina. A trip to Asheville remains one of their favorite adventures.
Ashlee says the dogs have inspired the couple to stay active and explore more of their new home. The intelligent shepherds also love training sessions, playing hide-and-seek and scent work, making every day a little more fun.
Although the Munfords don't have children, Bruno and Benji are very much family. Their loyalty, companionship and endless enthusiasm have made life richer in countless ways.
If you spot two handsome German shepherds sporting Green Bay Packers gear or cheering on England during the World Cup, chances are you've just met Bruno and Benji, the neighborhood's four-legged explorers.
To recommend a pet to be featured, please email Delia at ballantyne@strollmag.com.
This story appears in the August 2026 issue of Stroll Ballantyne Country Club. Read the full edition here.