Dogs Deserve Better: Rescue Riley

Meet Riley, a young Chesapeake Bay Retriever mix who was found running as a stray in rural South Carolina, and rescued by a Good Samaritan after she noticed a very young pup running free in her yard. Because she assumed he was a dog from one of her neighbor’s farms, she gave him some food and water, and then left on vacation for a week. When she returned, little Riley was still there and looking much too thin for her liking, so she took him in, fearing he had been abandoned, and called Dogs Deserve Better for help.

Riley came into the rescue as a goofy puppy who needed to learn the rules of home life, and his foster parents have done a great job working with him to teach him good manners. He's crate trained and housetrained, knows his basic commands, and walks pretty well on leash, though he still has some puppy excitement left in him. His foster dad, James, describes Riley as a dog who is eager to please and learns quickly. He’s also very affectionate, loves to snuggle, and wants to be right by your side. When James sits on the floor, Riley will come right over and curl up beside him to rest his head in his lap. It’s adorable.

This handsome boy is a fun, playful, and active dog who’s about 1-1.5 years old and weighs 45 pounds. He looks bigger in his pictures than he really is, and has the body of a mini-Lab. He has the gorgeous hazel eyes of a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and a striking auburn coat that really makes him stand out. He is a confident dog who would do well with another playful dog in his home, and is currently living with 3 other large dogs who quickly accepted Riley into their pack. He has a different relationship with each dog, but is respectful with all of them and understands where he fits in.

Riley has settled into home life, but still loves to be outside exploring. He will make a great hiking buddy and sidekick for your next adventure, and a fenced back yard where he could romp and play would be ideal, but is not required if his owner is committed to regular exercise. He’s a young dog, so he will need daily activity to stay healthy and balanced, and would benefit from an owner who wants to continue his basic training. After playtime, you’ll usually find Riley snuggled up on the couch with his foster parents watching TV, or laying with his pack enjoying a sense of community.

We have no idea why this sweet boy has been overlooked, but it’s time for Riley to go home and start his new life. An active family with kids (10+) would be great for him, but mostly he needs an owner who will lead him, love him, give him structure, commit to his daily walks and playtime, and enjoy having a cool dog to hang out with. He is curious and still learning, fascinated by the world around him, and would do best with someone who has some time to work with him and will enjoy a playful young pup.

This sweet boy is going to make some lucky owner very happy. Please consider adopting your next pup, and saving a dog in need. - Apply for Riley today!

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