Age: 2 years Gender: Male Color: Black/White Weight: 35 lbs. Variety: Bench/Show-bred One look into those eyes, and I lost my heart. Ryder is an amazingly gentle, sweet, loving dog. He is a very mellow, two-year-old male who is happy as long as he is by my side or sleeping at my feet. Despite his calm nature, he also has a playful side and enjoys a romp with his foster sisters, always content to be in the beta role. He is very good with my cats, playing with the frisky one and being respectful of the less-than-frisky ones. He appears to have been through obedience training: he walks very well on a leash and responds well to a number of commands including sit, stay, down and off. He also is perfectly calm riding in a car. He is very small for a Springer, only about 35-40 pounds. Ryder was picked up as a stray, so we know little of his background. But based on his behavior, I think I am safe making some educated guesses. I am currently working with him on his housetraining skills. Since he is so willing to please, I'm sure it's just a matter of time, patience and plenty of positive reinforcement. He appears to have been hit when he has made mistakes in the house; this punishment has had two unintended and unfortunate results: he is very reluctant to do his business in front of people, thereby making it difficult to provide the necessary behavioral reinforcement, and more importantly, he is now distrustful of men. With time, patience and understanding, I am sure both issues can be resolved (after two weeks with us he is beginning to warm up to his foster daddy), but Ryder will be most comfortable and progress most quickly in an environment where a woman will be his primary caregiver. Because of his insecurities, he will also progress better in an environment where he is not left alone for long periods of time. He is gentle with children, but I think he would be happier in a quieter rather than bustling household. Ryder is a very special dog and deserves a very special family. If you are looking for a 24-7, loyal companion for life, have the patience to work with Ryder on his issues