The SHOP Just Wouldn’t Be the Same Without “The Shop Dog”

Joel Liebman Furniture has been home to four full-time Shop Dogs, each bringing their own charm and companionship to the workspace.

The first was Jasmine, a dark red Golden Retriever who came into my life at just six weeks old. For many years, Jasmine was simply a beloved pet, but after I completed the Genoa School of Furniture Design, he officially became the first Shop Dog. Lucky for him, he didn’t have to spend his days stuck at home on the couch. Jasmine lived a long and happy life, reaching the age of 15.

Next came Avery, another Golden Retriever. Avery joined me and the shop at the age of four, after his previous owners—sad to see him left alone too often—sought a better home for him. He found not only a new family but also a new role as Shop Dog #2.

Some years later, I met my future wife Sami, who had a Husky mix named Ginger. She joined Avery in the shop, giving us two Shop Dogs. While Ginger wasn’t as fond of the noisy machines, she adapted well. After Avery passed at 12, Ginger became the sole Shop Dog—until the arrival of Blue.

Blue, an eight-week-old Golden Retriever, left his littermates to step into the world of fun and games as our newest Shop Dog. Ginger had to adjust to this rambunctious pup, especially his habit of tail-pulling. She made sure to set him straight, and eventually, they found their rhythm. Ginger lived to 13, and now it’s just Blue holding down the fort.

Before my official Shop Dogs, there were my childhood companions—Dandy, a sweet little Pug, and Samson and Gabriel, two Black Lab mixes. Though they never set foot in the shop, they deserve the honorary title of “Pre-Shop Dogs.” They lived wonderful lives as cherished family members, earning their place in the legacy of beloved canine companions.