For five years, Isle of Hope resident Liz Ely and her family have enjoyed life near the river and just steps from close friends — a setting perfectly suited for their water-loving dog, Diddle.

Diddle, a 2½-year-old female chocolate Lab mix, came from an unexpected litter. The owners who surrendered the puppies to the Humane Society said two chocolate Labs had accidentally bred, yet every puppy turned out miniature in size. The Elys first fostered Diddle’s littermate, Marsh, at 12 weeks old and helped place her in a new home. Months later, Diddle was returned to the shelter, and the family agreed to foster her as well. Not long after, she officially stayed for good — thanks to Liz’s husband, Reed, who surprised her with adoption papers and a new collar waiting on the kitchen counter.

Her name started as a strategy to avoid attachment. The family gives foster dogs silly names, and since she resembled a smaller version of their older dog, Creek, they began calling her “Little Diddle.” The nickname stuck within a week.

Despite her petite size, Diddle lives large. She prefers to be cradled like a baby — even on boat rides — and will launch herself into the river in any season. While she happily destroys most toys, she shines in the water, swimming confidently, whether along the Bluff or at the beach.

Usually shy with unfamiliar dogs, Diddle takes social cues from Creek and warms up quickly once her sister approves. She also enjoys outings downtown and spa days at Woof Gang in Sandfly.

Given the choice, Diddle would spend every day chasing waves or cruising the waterways — wherever there’s water and her people nearby.