Our happiest resident!

One and a half year old groodle Matteo could just be Southbank’s happiest local resident!

According to owners Dimi and Ali, Matteo is a big fan of his inner-city apartment lifestyle and his happiness continues to prove infectious with neighbours in his Dorcas St home.

His Instagram page, aptly named ‘happy.matteo’, has quickly attracted some 700 followers and those figures are consistent with his ever-rising popularity amongst locals.

As illustrated in the featured image, Dimi and Ali told Southbank Local News that Matteo like to be carried and held in a “koala bear style”, in what is a clear demonstration of his love for his owners.

“He’s very comfortable like this and if I sit somewhere he likes to rest his head for hours,” Ali said. “As we’re sitting outside the South Melbourne Market, honestly, 50 to 100 people on average will either come and pat him, smile or take photos.” “He brings lots of happiness and he’s brought lots of happiness to our lives and we are so grateful.” Matteo’s cross between a golden retriever and a poodle means he is both good-natured and doesn’t shed, making him the ideal apartment dog!

With a doggy paradise set up on his apartment balcony, complete with a water station and small perch for taking in the views, Matteo is a big advocate for life in Southbank!

Fondly known by many as the “walking cloud”, Ali and Dimi said he was a constant source of laughter and joy. “He loves the apartment because this is his universe in here.

Ever since he was born, this has been his home so, even though he loves the outdoors, as soon as he hears ‘eighth floor’ he runs from the lift to the door,” Ali said.

“We both have very high pressure roles and when I’m really stressed I actually picture him!

He’s my happy place!”