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
Congrats Nagi, wishing you many happy days with Jaffle. I had happy tears for you when reading about him. Dozer will always be in your heart 💓
My heart ❤️ beautiful words Nagi…so glad you found Jaffle, looking forward to hearing every day life with you furry companion 😘
I am so happy you found this little bundle of joy. I think he’s going to fit in nicely ❤️
Loved reading about Dozed and trying your recipes
Look forward to reading the antics of Jaffle he looks greatx
I am so happy for you to have found this little golden bundle!! I have to say I think you’re doing the right thing and he will help you to be happy and move forward. My dear Milo has passed away 2008 and I never got another dog again (but still had my boss, the amazing tomcat Salem with me. so, lately, I’m really ready for a dog! We’ll see- wishing you all the best!!
Hi Nagi
Oh my heart, Jaffle is such a chunky ball of golden fluff, he is absolutely adorable, he will definitely hold a very special place in your heart. You will never forget Dozer, he will always live on in your heart, memories will still be there, treasure them and he would be so happy you have another beautiful Golden to love and adore you.
Get ready for all of their silly goofiness, chewing, digging and so much love and not forgetting the golden floof flying everywhere,
Looking forward to following Jaffle’s journey and Dozer’s memories.
Thank you for all your wonderful recipes, hints, tips and sharing your life with the most wonderful dogs on earth
Much love Sam and Marlee (My 9 yr old goofy Golden)
Sobbing right along with you Nagi. Thank you for sharing Dozer with us along with all your amazing recipes. Jaffle looks like he will be another best boy!
Welcome Jaffle.
I look forward to seeing you grow into your role as taste tester.
You are adorable.
As you entered your mammas life, I said goodbye to my chief taste tester of 17years 3days ago, the pain and emptiness is immense and real.
On a side note thank you for your recipes im a chef working in a small NZ town at the local foodbank/soup kitchen and we offer free food to those in need and a weekly community dinner, we run 98% of donations so every meal we make depends on whats availabe at the time. No set meals and no set ingredients or availability.
what i love about your recipes is how adaptable they are and how easy it is to scale up the ingredients for larger crowds.
When im looking for inspiration your recipes are my go to.
Thank you for all that you do!
Albedina Maria
That’s so lovely Nagi, Im so happy for you to have a new bundle of joy
Hi Nagi,
It’s lovely to see the photos of you and Jaffle and truly happy for you but most of all love your tribute and last photos of Dozer as well. They have set my tears off as well and reminds me of my Old English Sheepdog Maddison. Wishing you much joy
Good on you Nagi. Saying goodbye to a dog can be harder than saying goodbye to a human, but it’s an important part of their life. The only thing more important is moving on. You sound like you’re on your way…good work, done well.
OMG Nagi, Jaffle is gorgeous and I’m so glad you have opened your heart to him. You will never forget Dozer he will always be part of you. Every dog is an individual character and therefore Jaffle will never replace Dozer but will be a new and exciting ball of fluff for you to love. ps I’m from Glasgow Scotland which is only about 20 miles from Falkirk….small world
Hi Nagi
So happy for you to have found gorgeous Jaffle! What a lucky boy to have you as his owner. He will be keeping you on your toes , no doubt but we as your followers will be enjoying Jaffle’s escapades in the Recipe tin kitchen!
Sending you both a big hug!
I love this and I’m so happy for you and Jaffle! He’s a very lucky puppy to get such a wonderful, loving home. I know that Dozer would more than approve. Can’t wait to see all of your fun posts about him.
Maia passed away almost 18 months ago and my Mrs still doesn’t want another dog, let alone another Golden. You had that way of phrasing not forgetting but passing the torch in memory. She is coming around, and I’ve already been in contact with the breeder. Shhhh!
Congratulations Nagi—I am so happy for you!! I know how hard it is to lose our Furry Babies and no one can ever take their place. But, finding someone to help you fill the void they left is really special. Jaffle is adorable—Golden Retrievers are absolutely the best 💕🐕💕
Welcome Jaffle! We are sure you will get lots and lots of chef’s portions. And no more kale!
Jaffle looks lovely. Am so glad u have him . Dozer would approve of him I’n sure and happy that you have company again xx
Congratulations he:s a lovely little dog❤️ it’ll be a great pleasure following Jaffle and you ❤️
Hi Nagi!
First, and foremost, I am more than GLAD! that you’re keeping Dozer onboard!!! What a great companion/friend/SoulMate he was for you!
I can totally empathize with you!
My previous dog, Sasha (Shepherd/Chow mix) made it to 16 1/2. Got her when she was 7wks old. It tore my heart out when she died! Due to a medical diagnosis four months after Sasha departed, I waited until all was ‘good’ before looking for another dog. The day before Thanksgiving (U.S.) 2015 I went to Animal Control and found Sequoia (American Staffordshire Terrier mix). 1 1/2yo. She is absolutely awesome in every way! She hit 12yo in mid-May. Still has some separation anxiety which is why I refer to her as my “conjoined twin”. Sequoia is different than Sasha but I would die for her nonetheless! I could go on forever about both dogs!
Now, on to Jaffle. He is such a cute fluffball!!! Can’t wait for continuing updates on your progress with him! He may be different than Dozer but I imagine/know you two are going to have an awesome partnership!
I know, personally, you’ll still continue to think about your life with Dozer but, your new partner will help ease the pain/grief. I’m glad you found a new mate!!!—and such a cutie!!!
I’m new to your site. Loved seeing Dozer. I love Goldens, too! Looking forward to new recipes and seeing old stories of Dozer and the new ones with Jaffle! Enjoy your new family member!