In a close-knit neighborhood where friendships span generations and kids travel yard to yard on bikes, a two-year-old Cavapoo named Cannoli Carosi has become something of a local celebrity.

“Hands down, the best part of living here is the people,” said Cannoli’s owner, Nicole Carosi. “It is such a tight-knit community and a great place to raise kids.”

Cannoli, a lovable mix of Cavapoo and mini poodle, came to the Carosi family from Utah, thanks in part to a little inspiration from neighborhood friends. “Our friends, the Hinkos, have a Cavapoo named Dudley and we loved Dudley,” Nicole said. “They would tell us what a good-natured pup she was. We fell in love with Duds and knew we wanted a puppy just like him.” The breeder connected the family with Cannoli—Dudley’s half-brother—and it was love at first sight.

Naming him was a true family affair. “Our four kids, Nicky, Gregory, Isabella, and Joey, were tasked with coming up with a name,” she recalled. “It finally came down to Rocky and Cannoli.” Even the kids who wanted Rocky still liked Cannoli. “So, Cannoli it was, and it just fits!”

With a white stripe down the middle of his soft, fluffy coat, Cannoli is every bit as sweet as the Italian dessert he’s named after. “He’s adorable and fluffy and completely lovable,” Nicole said. “I call him my little love bug.”

Cannoli’s charm is not lost on the neighborhood, where he's become a fan favorite during his frequent walks. He loves walking the neighborhood—especially exploring and sniffing around Fort Willard Circle. “Cannoli has so many pup friends and has introduced me to so many dog moms and dads. It’s been fun getting to know more people through Cannoli and his playmates.”

Among his circle of canine companions: Dudley, Winnie, Hank, Buzzy, Jolie, Pepper, Birdie, Rocket, Maple, and Dutchess. But his very best friend is his cousin Snicks whom he adores and plays with every day.

Cannoli is also a world-class fetch enthusiast—particularly with his favorite toys. “He loves all stuffed animals, but his favorites are small squishmallows,” Nicole said. “He loves when we throw them and he runs to fetch and then he wants us to chase him around the family room. It makes us dizzy running around and around all the furniture, but we love seeing him so happy!”

Still, his happiest moments might be the ones spent curled up at home. “My favorite memory happens every day when I walk in the house after being gone,” Nicole said. “I sit on the couch and he climbs on me and licks me as his tail is going a mile a minute.”

Whether hiking at Cabin John, cheering on his siblings at local sports games, or simply cuddling on the couch, Cannoli is all heart. “He’s a family guy,” she says. “More than any adventure, he loves to cuddle up on the couch or bed.”

And clearly, this “little love bug” has found his perfect pack.