The Lengemann family recently welcomed an adorable new addition to their household, and while he may still think he’s a lap dog, Theodore “Theo” Allen is quickly growing into a very big boy. Theo, an English Cream Golden Retriever, joined the family during the first weekend of February when he was just 8 weeks old. After months of discussing whether to add a second dog to the family, the decision became easy once they met him.

“From the start, Theo stood out,” says owner Lynn Lengemann. “He was one of the biggest puppies in a litter of 13, with a thick coat and the sweetest personality.” Now several months later, Theo has fully embraced life with his new family—and especially with his older brother, Finnegan (“Finn”), a 3-year-old Golden Retriever who has eagerly taken on the role of mentor and playmate.

The two dogs spend much of their time wrestling, chasing each other around the house and yard, and exploring the neighborhood together. Whether they’re enjoying adventures around the cul-de-sac or relaxing with their family, Theo is happiest simply being wherever his people are. Although Theo hasn’t yet made many canine friends in the neighborhood, he already has plenty of companionship at home. In addition to Finn, he shares the house with several rescued feline brothers, whom he absolutely adores.

What the Lengemanns love most about Theo is his affectionate nature and eagerness to learn. “He’s incredibly loving, very smart, and brings so much fun and energy to our home,” Lynn says. That intelligence has already been on full display. Theo has excelled at crate training and potty training and quickly mastered some of his first commands, including “come” and “sit.” According to Lynn, he is highly motivated by treats and always eager to please, making training both successful and enjoyable.

And when it comes to snacks, Theo certainly has favorites. His menu includes healthy treats such as carrots, celery, apples, fresh turkey, steamed vegetables, ice cubes, and even frozen bagels. But nothing tops the homemade “pupcicles” he shares with Finn. Made from ingredients like peanut butter, yogurt, pumpkin, cinnamon, turmeric, kibble, and bone broth, the frozen treats are a special reward both dogs eagerly anticipate.

Like most puppies, Theo also has a playful and goofy side. Family members often catch him sleeping flat on his back, chasing his own tail, running after blowing leaves, or barking enthusiastically at his reflection in the window. One of the most special connections between Finn and Theo is their shared heritage. While they are not littermates, they have the same father—a dog who came all the way from Hungary.

At his 16-week wellness exam, Theo already weighed nearly 41 pounds, proving that he has some very big paws—and big footsteps—to follow. For the Lengemann family, adding a second Golden Retriever has been everything they hoped for and more. As Lynn puts it, “Two Goldens equals twice the fun.” And with Theo’s sweet personality, playful spirit, and boundless enthusiasm, it’s easy to see why.