As my third foster experience came to an end last week, I wanted to share just how incredibly well Nigel has settled into a home environment - and how truly special he is.
Although Nigel was found as a stray, it is immediately clear that he has been loved and trained in the past. He is an exceptionally intelligent, calm, and obedient dog who already knows many commands and takes genuine pride in doing the right thing. His lead walking is outstanding: he strolls calmly by your side on a loose lead, happy to amble along at a relaxed, leisurely pace. The only time he shows a hint of pulling is if he spots a fox, playground, or football pitch (see videos), and even then he responds instantly to a simple “Nigel, come” or “this way,” happily changing direction. He truly wants to please his people.
Around the home, Nigel is an absolute dream. If he lingers a little too long in the kitchen while I’m cooking, a gentle “go to bed” sends him plodding off immediately - either to the sofa or upstairs to his bed. It is honestly one of the cutest things to watch. His tendency to beg is minimal by any dog’s standards; even when we were eating on the sofa (our table is currently in storage due to an upcoming move), Nigel was wonderfully polite. He may sit briefly and sniff the air, but with a simple cue such as “go to bed” or “down,” he settles straight onto his mattress and relaxes.
For a large dog with guarding roots, Nigel does have a mild tendency to bark if he sees a dog or fox pass the window - and even that comes with the sweetest, low “old man” growl. Living on a busy London street, this was entirely expected and easily managed with curtains and light training.
One of Nigel’s most impressive qualities is just how adaptable and easy-going he is. While I was packing up my house, there were many occasions when he was left resting alone in my bedroom, and he was unbelievably calm about it (sometimes in the exact position as I left him - wrapped in his yellow blankie when I returned). As long as he has a comfortable place to sleep, he is perfectly content and settles quickly. Sometimes watching you leave by the window which is adorable, but then quickly returns to his bed for some more shut eye.
Training & handling
Nigel is highly responsive to verbal cues and clearly enjoys structure and routine. He takes direction gently and confidently, making him a pleasure to live with and very easy to guide in everyday situations. He willingly helps when putting on his harness and responds beautifully to calm instruction.
Energy level
Medium to low. Nigel enjoys relaxed walks, gentle play, and the occasional burst of giant, slow-motion zoomies, but is equally happy snoozing nearby for hours. He has a wonderfully balanced “easy rider” personality.
Time alone
Nigel has shown that he can be left alone for short periods without distress, particularly when he has a cosy place to rest. He remains calm, settled, and relaxed—I have comfortably left him alone for up to five hours with no issues.
Ideal home
Nigel would thrive in a calm, loving home that values companionship and routine. He would suit an individual or family looking for a loyal, affectionate dog who enjoys being close to his people without demanding constant activity. He would prefer to be an only dog, but appears unfazed and friendly with children.
Having Nigel for the past two and a half weeks has been an absolute joy. He fills the house with love, laughter, and warmth. Perhaps because of his past as a stray, he is an incredibly grateful dog—something you can see in his beautiful brown eyes, his gentle head cuddles, and his impeccable behaviour. I am so proud of him, and I know without question that he will make an extraordinary family member.
If his future family is ready for a truly special companion, I can promise you this: adopting Nigel means welcoming a rare bundle of love, loyalty, and joy into your life. He has been patiently waiting for a stable, loving home for far too long—so what are you waiting for? Fill out those adoption forms and come meet this amazing boy.
A few of my favourite things about Nigel:
• His wrinkly face and irresistible puppy-dog expressions
• The adorable little bump on his nose
• His heart-melting head cuddles
• Those beautiful, soulful brown eyes
• His goofy, playful side
• His hilarious snores
• The way he snuffles his face with his paws while he sleeps
• How he immediately turns around and goes to bed when told “go to bed”
• His easy-rider attitude in the car
• His giant, slow-motion zoomies
• His sweet “old man” bark
• The way he sleeps on his back—for hours
• His little birthmark on his nose
• How he calmly plods along beside you on the lead
• His easy-going, adaptable personality
• How enthusiastically he helps you put his harness on (so cute)
• His love of toys
• His cuddles (there is truly nothing better than a Nigel cuddle)
• His patience—the most patient dog I have ever met
• His companionship while gardening (he loves being involved and sniffing everything you do)
Nigel is, quite simply, a very good boy, and he is ready for his forever home. Whoever adopts him—I will be severely jealous, because I love this boy with all my heart
