Nola the Tree-Climbing Dog Becomes Viral Sensation
When Vanessa and Ryan Marquette welcomed a 7-year-old German Shepherd mix named Nola into their home in 2018, they knew they were getting a new family member. What they didn't expect was to adopt a local celebrity with a talent more suited to a squirrel than a dog. Nola, who has since gained social media fame as Nosey Nola, has a remarkable and unusual hobby: she climbs trees and fences with surprising agility. Her acrobatic exploits, often performed to get a better view of the neighborhood, have captivated millions online.
A Backyard Mystery Unfolds
The Marquette family's first clue to Nola's special skill came from a family friend who noticed her persistent attempts to squeeze through the fence at their old house. But it was after a move to their current home in Smyrna, Georgia, that Nola's talent truly blossomed. The dog began disappearing from the yard, leaving her owners baffled until a neighbor solved the puzzle: they had witnessed Nola leap over their chain-link fence.
Vanessa initially couldn't believe her own eyes. She recalled seeing Nola jump down from a tree and telling her husband, Ryan, thinking she must have imagined it. Her suspicion was confirmed when she saw it happen again. By following Nola outside, she discovered her dog was a natural climber, often motivated by squirrels or other neighborhood activity. This feat is made all the more astonishing by the fact that Nola has limited vision in one of her eyes.
How a New Fence Created a Playground
Nola's climbing habit became even more pronounced after the family upgraded their property in 2022. A flimsy older fence was replaced with a much sturdier wooden one, which gave Nola the solid support she needed to scale it with confidence. An old chain-link fence near a tree was also removed, giving her a perfect two-part jungle gym. According to Vanessa, Nola now enjoys alternating between her two favorite climbing spots—the sturdy fence and the conveniently located tree.
A Star in the Neighborhood and Beyond
While Nola was initially shy about showing off her skills, she has since embraced her audience. Her neighbors, once stunned, are now her biggest fans. One couple jokingly considers her their personal security detail when they're away and have noted her keen interest when they're grilling steaks in their yard. Nola's confidence has grown, and she no longer minds who is watching her impressive climbs.
Life for Nola isn't just about scaling fences. She is a beloved part of a pack that includes two other rescue dogs, 3-year-old Toby and 13-year-old Sammy. She loves socializing with other dogs at daycare and joining her family on outdoor adventures and runs. At home, she enjoys simple pleasures like snacking on raw carrots and bell peppers. She also has a particularly endearing habit: when her owners are out, she gathers their slippers and clothes to cuddle with, a sweet and slightly mischievous sign of her affection.
