Hi there! I’m Teddy, an 8-year-old, 80-pound chocolate lab with the energy and charm of a much younger pup. My shiny coat and sweet personality turn heads everywhere I go, and I love making people smile. Everyone who meets me says the same thing: “He’s such a good boy!” And you know what? They’re absolutely right!

I came to DLRR from a loving home with little kids. They adored me, but life got busy, and they realized I wasn’t getting the attention I deserve. It was a tough goodbye, but they knew I’d thrive with someone who could make me their top priority.

So, what makes me such a good boy? Well, for starters, I’m fantastic on a leash, but I do get protective of my owner.  It would be best to keep me away from other people and dogs during my walk. I do come when called every time, I’m a pro at riding in the car, and I’m also fully housebroken and know how to use a dog door like a champ. Personality-wise, I’m playful and very athletic, but I know how to chill with the best of them when I’m not playing or swimming.   Did I say swimming, it’s my favorite thing in the whole world to do!

I might get along well with other dogs, but I tend to match their energy, so having a full-time doggy sibling might not be the best fit for me. Honestly, I’d love being your one-and-only so I can soak up all the love and attention you’ve got to give.

Now, I’ll admit I’m not perfect. I’m a professional countersurfer, if it looks interesting and I can reach it, consider it gone.  I also have what they call “separation anxiety” when my owners leave me alone.   I bark and pace pretty much the entire time they are gone, but I don’t cause any harm to their stuff.  Putting me in my crate doesn’t help, I just don’t like being left alone for very long (sorry).  Now I will let my foster dad take over and tell you a little bit more about me:.

Both of Teddy’s foster families—and everyone at DLRR—have completely fallen in love with this guy. When he’s in his own environment, he’s an absolute gem—so well-behaved it’s almost scary! HOWEVER, he does have some behavioral challenges that make him a better fit for the right adopter.

His countersurfing habit isn’t ideal but can be managed. More concerning is his protective behavior toward his owners in public and his separation anxiety when left alone. Potential adopters should fully understand what they’re signing up for.

At 8 years old, Teddy has gone through significant changes in recent months after spending most of his life with one family. He will need plenty of time to adjust and feel secure in his new home. While we’ve worked with a trainer at times over the last few months, we believe he would greatly benefit from a strong handler with a structured behavior training plan. DLRR’s trainer has offered one free session, but we strongly encourage continued training for long-term success.

We believe Teddy’s reactivity is fear-based, and with consistency, training, and strong leadership, he has the potential to improve. While there are no guarantees, he has had a lot of exposure recently, with many positive interactions. However, his negative reactions require an adopter who is understanding, committed, and willing to work with him.

That being said, Teddy is so much fun and, in the right home, he will absolutely thrive. In our opinion, he would do best with a mature individual or couple who spend most of their time at home. He would likely be happiest as the only pet in the household, and while he grew up with children, a home without young kids may be ideal.

All of us love this dog to death and are committed to finding him his perfect forever home. Because we want to set him up for success, we’d like his first meeting to take place at his foster home in North Phoenix (near Desert Ridge Mall). If that goes well, we’ll arrange a visit to your home to ensure it’s the right fit.

If Teddy seems like he could be right for you, text his foster to learn more. He truly is an exceptional dog and will make the right person an amazing companion!