Goose - Australian Cattle Dog Blue Heeler and Black Mouth Cur Dog Available for Adoption in Amherst, Massachusetts

Meet Goose!

A spirited three-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix from Berkeley, CA, whose essence is a delightful blend of speckled charm, boundless energy, and sun-soaked silliness.

With her tan and white coat speckled like a giraffe and a face full of expression, Goose is 55 pounds of brains, goof, and love! She’s incredibly affectionate, curious, and energetic—true to her working-dog roots—and thrives when she has space to roam, explore, and play. Her absolute happiest moments happen in open areas with other dogs, whether she’s at doggy daycare, on group hikes, or galloping across her favorite 17-acre off-leash dog park. She’s got a floppy, cuddly side too, especially in the evenings, when she transforms into a snugglebug ready to curl up beside you!

Goose has been through formal training and knows a wide variety of commands including “sit,” “come,” “leave it,” “touch,” and “place.” She has great recall and is eager to please, especially if treats are involved. But she is also highly sensitive to certain city-life triggers like scooters, skateboards, and sudden movements. She has been reactive when startled by things like people with assistive devices or rolling luggage, and she once had a bite incident during a trail walk when a passing bicyclist spooked her. It was an isolated, unreported event—Goose immediately retreated to her dog walker afterward—but it highlights her need for a calmer, more predictable environment.

This clever girl would flourish in a rural or countryside home with a large, securely fenced yard, another friendly dog or two, and a guardian who understands the needs of sensitive, reactive pups. Goose is good with older kids, but due to her tendency to get jumpy and mouthy when excited, a home without young children is best.

Goose has a high prey drive and tends to chase cats, squirrels, and birds. That said, she's recently started coexisting peacefully with farm cats and chickens at her boarder’s rural property—proof that with the right environment and routine, she can settle into life alongside other animals.

She is crate trained, house-trained, vaccinated, spayed, and microchipped. She’ll come with her crate, cozy bed, favorite stuffies, and enrichment toys—all the comforts of home, ready to go!

Could your peaceful, dog-loving space be the perfect fit for Goose’s big heart and joyful spirit?

If you're interested in providing Goose with a loving home, please email adopt@joyfulpets.com for more information on adopting her! Please note that Goose will remain with her current family until a suitable new home is found for her.

Also, Goose is open to a long-distance adoption—love knows no distance when finding your perfect companion!

The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler, is a hardworking and intelligent breed originally developed in Australia for herding cattle. Renowned for their endurance and agility, these medium sized dogs have a striking blue or red speckled coat and alert, curious expression. With a strong herding instinct and boundless energy, they require mental stimulation and physical activity to thrive. Blue Heelers are loyal, protective, and make excellent companions for active individuals or families willing to provide the engagement and exercise they need.

The Black Mouth Cur is a versatile and intelligent hunting dog known for its strong work ethic and loyalty. Originating in the southern United States, these medium to large sized dogs are muscular and athletic. Their distinctive feature is the black mask on their muzzle, giving them their name. Black Mouth Curs excel in various tasks such as hunting, herding, and guarding, making them ideal companions for active families looking for a versatile and devoted canine.

Joyful Pets Rescue is a non-profit, tax-deductible 501(c)(3) public charity. Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and find loving families...