Grace - Anatolian Shepherd Dog for Adoption in Newport, Washington

Have you ever met an Anatolian shepherd before? They are supposed to be a livestock guardian breed, protecting their herd of people and critters from predators, but we're not sure this sweet girl has ever met an enemy. Grace has the softest, sweetest demeanor. She loves all dogs and all people with every fiber of her being. She is so outgoing, we think she would make an excellent therapy dog candidate. She will adore every single person she meets, leaning all of her 80# against their lap or legs, snuggling in for kisses and pets, allowing them to share secrets, hurts or happiness in her soft fur, for as long as they need. Grace seems to love all animals too—dogs, chickens, cats, horses... but she is definitely a people person first and foremost. Since she is a big girl, small children may end up smooshed, lovingly we might add, beneath her, so must have supervision.

Grace enjoys going on adventures in the car, trips to the coffee shop for a pup cup, to the local forest trails for hikes, long walks on the beach, play dates at the local dog park even. Grace came from a very neglectful situation and has only recently learned how to be a spoiled house dog, so some things are still a little challenging for her. She hesitates at long staircases, rushes through doorways, can be tentative on slippery floors, etc. However, this girl is brave and determined. She will overcome fears if it means she will be rewarded with snuggles and praise. She is house trained and can be trusted home alone for several hours if necessary. However, she enjoys people food, so yummy food items left within reach might be too tempting for her to resist.

Grace lived with a nutrient deficiency early in her life, which caused her to have weakened bones. Both of her front legs are misshapen, and one has an old fracture that healed crooked. We have had her evaluated, and the consensus is that she has an excellent quality of life, does not suffer currently from chronic pain, although she can get a little sore if she plays too much. She is given Carprofen, an anti-inflammatory medication, as needed. We raised funds to have Grace evaluated by a rehabilitation veterinarian and started her in therapy to help her develop more strength and give her the greatest chance at a pain-free life. Rehab clinics that offer water and laser therapy, massage, acupuncture, and other alternative treatments for dogs are becoming widespread. We would love to see her go with a family who will continue to pursue therapeutic rehabilitation for Grace.

Grace's ideal home would be one where she has a mellow dog sibling or is the only dog with occasional dog play dates outside the home. If she has a rowdy, playful sibling, she may exacerbate the weakness in her front legs.

Grace is a dog filled with joy in life, and she shares it with every person she meets. You can't help but smile and feel like a million bucks when you're around her. She deserves every opportunity to thrive with a family in a home of her own. Won't you be the one to enrich your world with Grace?

Grace is being fostered in the Spokane, WA area/North Idaho. We have wonderful volunteers who would drive her anywhere in the Pacific Northwest for the right home!

If you are interested in adopting Grace, please fill out the application on our website at: https://www.westernaustralianshepherdrescue.com/adoption-application.html.

We schedule meet n greets after a completed application which includes a home visit and reference checks.

The Anatolian Shepherd is a large and powerful ancient breed known for its loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. Originating in Turkey, these dogs were bred to guard livestock from predators, showcasing their strong natural instincts. Anatolian Shepherds have a distinctive short double coat that comes in various colors, with a black mask common on their faces. They require early socialization and consistent training to manage their independent yet devoted temperament effectively.