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5 Heartfelt Lessons From Norbert The Dog: A Tribute To The Internet’s 3-Pound High-Fiving Therapy Star

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The world recently said goodbye to one of its most beloved and impactful animal celebrities. As of late January 2025, the tiny but mighty registered therapy dog known as Norbert passed away at the age of 15, leaving behind a legacy that stretched far beyond his 3-pound frame. This article serves as a deep dive into the remarkable life of the high-fiving social media star, philanthropist, and author who proved that even the smallest among us can make the biggest difference.

The news of his passing on January 26, 2025, was announced by his devoted owner, Julie Steines, and immediately prompted an outpouring of grief and gratitude from his nearly two million followers across social media platforms. Norbert’s story is not just one of internet fame, but a powerful narrative of purpose, showing how a mixed-breed rescue pup became a global symbol of kindness, comfort, and the power of a simple, gentle high-five. The following is a comprehensive look at the life and enduring spirit of Norbert.

The Complete Biography of Norbert the Dog and Owner Julie Steines

Norbert’s life was an inspiring journey from an uncertain beginning to international recognition. He was a beacon of light in the world of animal therapy and social media influence.

  • Full Name: Norbert (also affectionately known as Norbie or Norbs)
  • Date of Birth: March 27, 2009
  • Date of Passing: January 26, 2025
  • Age at Passing: 15 years old
  • Owner: Julie Steines (née Freyermuth)
  • Breed: Mixed Breed (Suspected to be a cross of Chihuahua, Cairn Terrier, and Lhasa Apso)
  • Size: Approximately 3 pounds and 7 inches tall
  • Hometown: Los Angeles, California (with his owner)
  • Career: Registered Therapy Dog, Author, Philanthropist, Social Media Personality
  • Key Skill: Giving high-fives (which became his signature move)

Norbert was adopted by Julie Steines, a multiple award-winning children's book author, who personally trained him. By the age of one, he successfully passed the rigorous tests to become a registered therapy animal. This certification was the foundation of his life's work, which involved volunteering at various facilities, including nursing homes, hospitals, and special events, offering comfort and joy to countless people.

The Phenomenon of the High-Fiving Therapy Dog

Norbert's popularity exploded thanks to his unique and heartwarming skill: the high-five. This simple gesture, captured in photos and videos, quickly went viral, transforming a small therapy dog into a massive internet star. His gentle nature and distinctive, perpetually smiling face resonated with people globally, turning his social media accounts into hubs of positivity and inspiration.

A Massive Social Media Influence for Good

At the height of his fame, Norbert's social media presence was staggering, boasting a combined following of nearly two million highly-engaged followers across platforms like Instagram and Facebook. His feed was characterized by uplifting messages and heartwarming photos, all crafted to spread a simple message: "To me, it's important to be kind and to work to use your own special gifts to make the world a better place."

His influence wasn't just about follower counts; it was about engagement. Fans, often called "Norbie-lovers," would share stories of how the tiny dog’s photos brought them comfort during difficult times, cementing his status not just as an influencer, but as a genuine source of emotional support for a worldwide community. The viral moment of him being fed cheese is one of the many memorable clips that contributed to his fame.

Norbert's Enduring Legacy: Philanthropy and Literary Works

Norbert’s most significant impact lies in his philanthropic and literary contributions. He and Julie Steines leveraged his fame to raise awareness and funds for numerous charitable causes, embodying the spirit of a true working therapy dog. This commitment to giving back is the core of his enduring legacy.

The Picture Book Series and Life Lessons

As an author, Norbert—with the help of Julie Steines—created a successful series of children's books and a book of life lessons. These books focused on themes of self-acceptance, kindness, and the importance of helping others, all told from the perspective of the small, charming dog. His literary works include:

  • Norbert: What Can Little Me Do?: An internationally award-winning children’s picture book that addresses the idea that everyone, no matter how small, can make a difference.
  • Norbert’s Little Lessons for a Big Life: A collection of philosophical, intuitive, and heartwarming lessons on friendship, purpose, and living a meaningful life.
  • Not So Normal Norbert: Another picture book that continues his adventures and lessons on being unique.

The revenue generated from his books and merchandise was consistently used for charitable endeavors. This is a crucial part of the "Norberthood for Good" movement.

The Power of "Norberthood for Good"

Norbert’s charity work was extensive. He and Julie Steines were regular volunteers at institutions such as Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), where his gentle presence and high-fives provided much-needed distraction and comfort to patients and their families.

Furthermore, Norbert became a significant philanthropist by donating thousands of copies of his picture books and plush toys to various charitable causes, including a major contribution to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. He demonstrated a model of celebrity where fame was actively converted into tangible good for the community. His passing has been widely mourned by the therapy animal community, who recognize him as a pioneer in using digital platforms to amplify the work of therapy dogs.

Continuing the Legacy of Kindness

Norbert's owner, Julie Steines, shared an emotional tribute following his passing, confirming that the tiny pup died peacefully at home in her arms. She reflected on his lasting impact, noting that his spirit will live on through the smiles he created and the lessons he taught.

Steines has committed to preserving Norbert’s legacy by continuing to share his story and his message of kindness and purpose on social media. The books and the charitable foundation built around his name will ensure that the high-fiving therapy dog's work continues to touch lives for years to come. His life is a powerful testament that a big heart is far more important than a big size. Norbert the dog will forever be remembered as a tiny hero who taught the world a big lesson in empathy, kindness, and the simple joy of a high-five.

5 Heartfelt Lessons from Norbert the Dog: A Tribute to the Internet’s 3-Pound High-Fiving Therapy Star
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