It’s been six weeks since we brought Rye home, and not a day goes by that we don’t utter the phrase: “I can’t believe anyone ever gave this dog up”. He’s a great dog, who’s been given up not once, but two times. Third family’s a charm, buddy.

Rye is everything you’d ever want in a dog: he’s a goofball who loves to play with everything and everyone, he’s easy to train, and he’s as snuggly as any lap dog.

Rye watching doggie tv

He was given a hefty dose of personality. Rye actually reminds us of a cat in a lot of ways. He’s super curious, watching every move you make, and inspecting everything you touch. He leaps nimbly on and off of the sofa, his throne (despite our admittedly half hearted attempts to make it not be his throne). And he’s got the bendy-ness of a kitty; this boy slinks around and lays on things in positions that make you doubt he even has bones in his spine.

How’s he get along with Bolivar? Just fine. Though they peaceably share space in the house, for the most part, they become genuine buddies once they’re freed to the back yard. The games of chase are hilarious. Rye is always the lead dog, and though you get the sense he is toying with Boli at times, Bolivar actually keeps up with him pretty well. The games always end in an ear drum shaking barking session from Boli, who is attempting to urge Rye into more chase. It’s a hoot, and I’m compiling little snippets that will make for a fun video one of these days.

How’s Bolivar doing with Rye? Okay. He grumbles occasionally, and he’s a bit jealous. It’s hard to give Boli attention without Rye butting in, so we’re learning how to make sure everyone gets the love they need. Erin had a bit of a hard time at first, feeling parental guilt of interrupting the undivided love and attention Bolivar has always received. But it seems like everyone’s adjusting. Rye is certainly happy. I spend a lot of time with both dogs, as I’m home all day, and I’ve experienced a new sense of ‘doggy daddy’, as the three of us go out for daily walks and dog park romps. And Erin, though pointedly declaring Boli her first and true love, can’t help but fall for Rye a little bit, too.

How could you not?

Such a sweet face!

Visiting Swanson's nursery