Rebel

Rebel is such a lovable and exuberant dog. At 3 1/2 years old, he still has the spirit, curiosity, and enthusiasm for life, people, and dogs that he had as a 6-month-old puppy. He absolutely adores everyone he meets, which he expresses through the most emphatic tail wag that shakes his entire body. He is a big cuddle bug who loves excursions, meeting new people & pups, and being the center of attention.

Rebel was very used to being the baby in the family, and although he adores other dogs, we were not sure how he would feel about having furry fosters running around the house and getting a lot of the attention and care that he was used to. We were so happy to find that he thoroughly enjoyed having new pups to play with and he quickly volunteered to take on the big brother role. He would immediately tests their 'coolness' by seeing how well they play, then once they pass the test, he parades them around the house as if to show off his new friends and to play tour guide. He shows them where the food bowls are, where to find the fun toys, how to tell us to open the door to the yard, and most importantly, how to relax on a papasan chair.

Our little Rebel has been a truly good ambassador for our various foster pups and he was so very happy when he found out that Haydie was going to stay with us for good. One of the best things about Rebel is that he never holds a grudge. Even when Haydie was protective over his toys, Rebel just gave him the space and time that he needed to calm down. He has been very patient with Haydie, teaching him more and more each day that everything is more fun when you share... Toys are awesome, but better if you have two pups to play tug-o-war. Snacks are fun, but mommy & daddy give us extra if we eat them together! Cuddling is only possible with more than one dog...

We also think that Rebel's totally self-assured attitude and confidence that we would never leave him (since he is SO awesome that we would be crazy to leave) helped to reassure Haydie as well. Training and rehabilitation really is easier when you have fantastic role models like Rebel (and Li'i) to help out. We adore our little Rebel boy - big, sweet, fun, cuddly, ridiculously hilarious, and a fantastic puppy ambassador - we could not ask for a better dog.