This is Rigas. An adult dog with the heart of a young child, carrying a great deal of love and trying to find the right way to give it.
What sets him apart is his innocence and the way he connects with people. He experiences everything intensely, without filters. We know he once had his own person, but circumstances changed and he was left alone. We took Rigas from the municipal shelter of Tripoli.
From the very beginning, it was clear that Rigas cannot thrive without human presence. He needs connection and interaction. He has both the willingness and the ability to learn, and when given guidance, he responds immediately without resistance or difficulty. He has lived in a foster home, and we know that he is house trained, does not cause damage, and uses his crate willingly, going in on his own to rest. The only thing he cannot resist is unattended food. If he finds it, he will take it.
He loves going on walks, though at first he tends to overdo it, getting so excited that he doesn’t quite know how to enjoy them properly. This is where guidance is needed, and as communication with his person improves, his behavior outside will continue to settle. Training is one of his strong points. He is an excellent student, and with consistency and clear direction, he will grow into a very stable and pleasant companion in everyday life.
Above all, Rigas is a very affectionate dog. He enjoys physical contact, loves being petted, and does not keep his distance. Rigas is not for someone looking for a dog on “autopilot.” He is for someone who wants a real relationship and a dog who forms a deep bond. Not perfect, but very real.