Sophisticated Pup

What is Sophisticated Pup?

Sophisticated Pup is a wonderful company created by Michelle Cleek O'Hollaren. Sophisticated Pup is a designer of pet apparel, collars, leashes, toys and pet beds. All of our products are designed and produced in Chicago, IL. Sophisticated Pup was born out of a love for a little pup, Penny. Penny, Michelle's American Lo-Sze Pug suffers from Canine Liver Disease. Penny's well-being is at the heart of Sophisticated Pup. Sophisticated Pup also is active in supporting animal rescue groups within the Chicago and midwestern region.

Our Mission:

Sophisticated Pup’s mission is to create truly unique, sophisticated, handcrafted pet apparel, furniture and accessories for the most lovable of dogs- which in our eyes is all dogs! The products are not mass-produced, and due to the handcrafted artistry that goes into every piece of clothing, furniture or accessory, only limited amounts are created. Sophisticated Pup uses only the highest quality materials in our designs.

Michelle Cleek O'Hollaren, President/ Lead Apparel and Accessory Designer

Michelle holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Arts Education, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN; Master’s Degree in Visual Arts Management, Columbia College Chicago; with other graduate work completed at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago in Art History, Museum Education, Web Design and Illustration! Michelle started work on Sophisticated Pup in January 2006 after working in art education and art museums for 5 years. Michelle has acquired invaluable experience with managing arts organizations that help to make Sophisticated Pup the organization that it is.

Lynn Cleek, Lead Furniture Designer

Lynn has built furniture all of his life and has decided to dedicate his expertise in the furniture industry to the construction of heirloom-quality pet furniture for Sophisticated Pup. He is the father of Michelle and grandfather to the most perfect pug in the world, Penny!

Penny, Lead Model, Product Tester

Penny is an American Lo-Sze Pug. Penny came into Michelle’s world August 3, 2005 and it has never been the same since! All products get Penny's pawprint of approval, you can tell this because they are a part of each and every product. Penny is a survivor of Canine Liver Disease, which makes her even more exceptional that one could imagine