Meet Jaffle! Future Chief Taste Tester. Son of a Dozer friend. A little bundle of golden, fluffy joy!
48 hours of instant happiness
I didn’t expect to get a new puppy so soon after saying goodbye to Dozer. To be honest, I wasn’t sure when I’d be ready. And I had it in my head that this time round I’d like to adopt. I’d submitted my application, spoken to Golden Retriever Rescue, and was waiting for the right time and the right dog.
Then I recently found out that Clem, one of Dozer’s friends, had gotten pregnant and had a litter of puppies while I was hiding from the world during the last few months. When I met them, one little fluffball stole my heart immediately. A chunky chunderbum of a boy, destined to be big and gold. Just like Dozer. 🥰
He is not the first goldie that has crossed my path since losing Dozer. But he is the first that felt right. I picked him up 48 hours ago, and he’s already managed to completely wrap me around his chunky little paw. No surprises there!
Jaffle Q&A
Where did you get him from? From Kim Handley of Giltedge Golden Retrievers, a registered NSW breeder whose dogs Dozer used to play with regularly at the beach. Unlike Dozer, Jaffle comes from championship lines and a long pedigree of award-winning golden retrievers. It all sounds very impressive on paper, though around these parts, he’ll be judged on very different criteria!
Who are his parents? Jaffle’s mother is Clem, one of the golden retrievers Dozer used to splash around with at Bayview dog beach every weekend in his younger, wilder days. His father is Linirgor Tomich (“Tommy”), who lives in Falkirk, Scotland. Tommy was the UK Champion and Top Stud Dog in 2025. 😳 I know, right??!!
What are you feeding him? I’m currently giving Jaffle dog food recommended by the breeder – Black Hawk for Large Breed Puppies (kibble) plus Lyka Fresh Lamb Dog Food. I am keen to move him onto a homemade food diet as soon as possible. But I know that puppies need the right nutrients to help them grow which I don’t have knowledge about, so I won’t be making any changes to his diet until I speak to professionals.
Dozer was on homemade food from 4 years old, after falling very ill from a bad batch of a well-respected kibble brand (not Black Hawk! :)). He thrived on it! Everyone, including vet professionals, marvelled at the silkiness of his fur and health in his senior years. I am a big believer in real food for dogs. (And humans 🙂 ). In the end, what took him was complications relating to a neurological disorder (Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis Polyneuropathy – GOLPP).
How old is he? He’s 11 weeks old! He was born on 25 March 2026. I could’ve picked him up a few weeks earlier but I was away in Japan until the weekend. I can’t believe how much he’s grown since I first met him a month ago!
Right at home in the kitchen!
It’s only been 48 hours, but he’s already right at home in the kitchen! I’m going to have to get cracking with the training. Can’t have him stealing food from the pantry or off the bench – Dozer never did that!!
And while it’s early days (ie. still a nervous new puppy owner so I’m exercising restraint on the food front!), I am very happy to report that Jaffle is showing great promise for his future role as Chief Taste Tester of RecipeTin. Proof: enthusiastic cheese acceptance…
….and kale rejection.
He gave it a good chew, then spat it out and looked at it with the same expression Dozer did, like he couldn’t believe I was trying to pass it off as food. 😂
The pitter patter of paws
The house sounds different now. Like home again. The pitter patter of paws on the floorboards, toys scattered in corners, countless little wet patches (I forgot how much puppies pee!) and a little golden shadow following me around everywhere I go.
I know many of you loved Dozer, and I hope you’ll come to love Jaffle too. He’s already brought so much happiness back into my life, in a short 48 hours.
I look forward to watching him grow up with all of you! ❤️ – Nagi x
PS A jaffle is a uniquely Australian toasted sandwich made in a special jaffle iron that seals the edges of the bread together while it cooks. The filling gets trapped inside, creating a crispy golden pocket with hot filling in the middle, and the presence of cheese is mandatory in my world. I look forward to sharing a recipe with you!!
Remembering Dozer
And with the introduction of Jaffle comes the retirement of the Dozer section that somehow became the part of every post that you all skipped straight to before even looking at the recipe. You know how much it secretly delighted me every time somebody admitted that. 🥰
I’ve been dreading this day, because stopping the Dozer section makes it seem so final, like I’m losing him all over again.
There will never be a replacement for Dozer. He wasn’t just my dog, he was my sidekick, my shadow, my best friend, and such a huge part of RecipeTin Eats for almost 14 years. So rather than replacing him, I’d much rather think of this as passing the baton to the next generation.
So while Jaffle begins his career as Chief Taste Tester, Dozer will always have a place here. ❤️ The existing Life of Dozer sections will remain, always.
You know I am hopelessly sobbing while I’m writing this post.
But I just realised something. This is my website, and if I feel like sharing a funny Dozer memory, a photo I came across, or a story that makes me smile, then I can. So don’t be surprised if Dozer pops up from time to time. He may have retired from official duties, but he can live on here as much as I want to continue sharing about him.
And honestly, I think Jaffle would be delighted to hear a few stories about the legend who came before him.
Thank you for all the years of sharing the joy that was Dozer. Rest in peace, my darling boy. I will always love you. ❤️ – Nagi x
Can’t wait to see how Jaffle’s food training goes!
Love his name … a wonderful part of my growing up 💝
I’m so happy for you. My friend recently had to let her beloved Bob go. She would like another four legged friend but doesn’t know if she’s ready. I told her don’t think about it too much, these beautiful companions come along when the time is right❤️
It would be lovely to see photos of Dozer as a puppy again (I’m sure they’re on your website somewhere) but would be nice to see little Dozer and Jaffle..
Good luck with the toilet training, the chase for the things that have been ‘stolen’, and trying to set boundaries when they’re so bloody cute and cheeky xoxo
So happy for you Navi! Welcome Jaffle!
Gorgeous loving puppy! For sure Dozer approves from doggy heaven! Please publish recipe for Jaffle; good name, a bundle of goodness that warms your ❤️.
I am so happy you have Jaffel. Dozer would want you to have company.a new dog will never replace but will fill the hole in your heart xx
Jaffle is so cute 🥰 .
Dozer will always be in our thoughts, as this is how I will remember Recipetineats.
Dozer was a beautiful dog and little Jaffle looks like he will be similarly beautiful ! Enjoy the cuddles xx
😢😭 Am totally bawling my eyes out after reading this. Goodbyes are always so hard. That last picture of you two together was the perfect end. (Still bawling by the way – words are looking all blurry).
Jaffle – your next chapter 😍🐾. The picture with his little toe beans 🥰 – cuteness overload. And the facial expression when you’re giving him the cheese – 😂 You are in for the ride of your life. Warms my heart that you have found another furbie to make you complete and smile again. A gorgeous addition to the RTE world. 😊xx
Congratulations on your beautiful fluffball. Looking forward to following you both x
I am so happy for you Nagi!
He is absolutely gorgeous and he has got the Best mom in the World!
I am sure Dozer is looking down and approve little Jaffle to be part of your life and make you happy again
Your biggest fan #Sophie the Chef all the way from Vilanculos (Mozambique)
XXX
No one can really understand unless you have had a golden. I have had 2 and would get another in a heart beat. Atm I have my son’s chocolate lab. I adore Jaffle and loved Dozer. Jaffle has no idea how lucky he is to be your baby
I’m so glad you chose the name ‘Jaffle’, it sounds SO much better than the NZ equivalent of this which is ‘toastie’ or ‘toasted sandwich’. I look forward to the many adventures and taste tests from your new fur baby Jaffle x
Jaffle has big boots to fill but Dozer will be guiding him. He’s absolutely gorgeous.
Like you I was devastated when I lost Daisy who was my shadow for 14 years and I couldn’t think of another dog. Then like it was meant to be I saw a photo of Barney and I knew he was meant to be part of my life. I firmly believe Daisy sent him to help heal me, he has so many of her traits. As I’m sure you will start noticing with Jaffle. Lots of love to you both x🐾
So happy for you Nagi, l reckon Dozer is too🙂
Welcome Jaffle…he is so gorgeous..he will never replace Dozer but u will certainly have your hands full…as for the kale, I don’t blame him..lol
I’m so excited for Jaffle! He will be much loved and spoiled I’m sure. 🙂
HOWEVER…
I was hoping you would cave and adopt a big rambunctious ginger kitten! There is still time! Think of all the mischief Jaffle and him could get into! 😀
Wonderful news! 🥰❤️. Jaffle is so gorgeous. Looking forward to seeing his adventures 😍
Your new boy, Jaffle, is adorable! I think he’s a perfect fit and will bring you joy and companionship once again!
I admit, I was teary reading about Dozer’s history and seeing his pictures and those of the two of you. I’ve lost many pets over the years and each one is so hard. It never becomes easier. You love these little boogers so much it’s like a part of you is torn away when they leave.
But this little one is going to keep you on your toes and return the love you shower on him! I’m anxious to see him grow!
I think one of the most respectful and loving acts is when a pet passes to adopt another pet. It is significant in that it reflects that the past pet was so loved and cherished you want to do it again. I’m a way, it’s sort of like a tribute to the one that was.
I wish you happiness and a long life with lil’ Jaffle! 💕
For Dozer and Jaffle
Dozer the Golden, loyal and true,
Left pawprints of love in all that he knew.
Though he’s no longer here by our side,
His memory remains, a source of great pride.
Then came young Jaffle, playful and bright,
Bringing new laughter and joy to each night.
With a wagging tail and a curious way,
He fills the house with fun every day.
Jaffle can never take Dozer’s place,
For each dog leaves a bond none can replace.
But in every adventure, each cuddle and smile,
Dozer’s love seems to linger a little while.
So here’s to dear Dozer, remembered with love,
And to sweet Jaffle, fitting like a glove.
One lives in our memories, treasured and dear,
The other brings comfort and happiness here. 🐾❤️
He is soooo cute. Really looking forward to watching your journey together and thankx for sharing in advance.