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Shifting Gears Season 2 Episode 9 “Dog” Recap: Free and Mean vs. Cheap and Nice

Three people stand indoors. A woman in white faces a man in gray, while another woman in plaid smiles. Background features shelves and traffic light.

Searching for a light-hearted comedy with a laugh track attached to every joke? Shifting Gears returns with the ups and downs of living at your childhood home with your kids.


When Matt refuses to let Carter bring a dog into his house, Riley wonders if it’s time to move out. Like many grown adults with kids, you want to be able to provide for yourself and your family. As Riley searches for a new place, she realizes the devil you know may be the safest place to be. The kids are not keen on the idea of leaving either. Especially since the apartment has only one bathroom and Grandpa has three – with locks on the door. So, they agree – free and mean is better than cheap and nice.



While Riley and the kids look at apartments, Matt bonds with the dog, Charlie. They get along so well, Matt shares his feelings about Eve as he feeds Charlie bacon & chorizo. Did I mention the dog is on a vegan diet for healthy bones and a shiny coat? As you can imagine, Matt and the kids take Charlie to the vet to make sure he’s feeling okay after throwing up later in the living room.


As Matt sits with the kids in the waiting room, he learns that they moved alot in Vegas. Their mom did the best she could, but she truly wants a place of her own. To feel like she belongs somewhere. With this knowledge, Matt gets a better understanding of Riley.


Also in this episode, Gabe has second thoughts about moving in with Amelie after a request to make space for her and her belongings. Riley's help saves the day by explaining why Gabe’s items is not just junk. They bring comfort and reminds him of the few good memories he has of his past. Amelie understands and hopes he continues to share his feelings with her.


Overall, a solid episode about communication and compassion. Matt and Riley are slowly learning more about each other and how to navigate merging the past with the future. Until Riley saves enough money for a down payment for her own place, Matt agrees to share his home with Riley as equals. Mi casa es su casa.


Starring Tim Allen and Kat Dennings, Shifting Gears airs on ABC Wednesday nights, stream next day on HULU.



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