Finnegan - Australian Cattle Dog Blue Heeler Dog Available for Adoption in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Finnegan is ready to begin again with a new family. Finnegan was surrendered with another dog to a shelter in Georgia. While we dont know the reason, its clear that he was loved by his former owner(s).

Finnegan is 6 1/2 years old, and has clearly had some training in his former home. He knows Sit, Down, Stay and Drop It to name a few. Hes old enough to be past the crazy energy stage, but still is always up for chasing a ball or frisbee, riding in the car, or going for a walk.

In the house he settles down easily and being a polite gentleman, always waits for permission to get on the furniture. Finnegan is truly a delightful dog; hes seriously the easiest foster dog Ive had, with no drama coming into a new home He even tolerates his grumpy foster sister and leaves her alone. He would like to play but shes unfortunately not having it, so he would be happy either as an only dog, or with another canine companion.

Cats are an unknown but he does have a very strong prey drive, and would probably chase any cat that would run so a cat-free home is probably best. Hes not been around children in foster care but he is gentle and I suspect he be fine with older respectful children, although he may herd them.

He walks well on leash although he may pull if he sees a rabbit or squirrel, but he can be redirected. He has no separation anxiety and has not been destructive when left alone. Finnegan weighed 58 lbs coming into foster care, but should probably be closer to 50 lbs.. We are working on that with diet and exercise, and can already see progress.

He is housetrained, neutered, heartworm and Lyme negative, and is current on vaccinations and heartworm/flea/tick preventatives. Finnegan is a medium energy dog who does need to run and play in a yard but can then settle down inside. He prefers walking on trails to sidewalks, so an urban setting may not be well suited for him. Finnegans favorite things are: Being with his person/people Fetching balls Frozen kongs Fetching frisbees Car rides Fetching his mini soccer ball Wading into streams and rivers

Finnegans ideal home would have a large yard, preferably fenced due to his prey drive, with someone who will satisfy his love of fetch games, and take him on nature walks. He will probably not be a candidate for longer hikes, but that may change over time as I notice he is developing more endurance.

The only negative Ive observed is some on-leash reactivity towards other dogs. If the approaching dog is calm, Finnegan is fine. But if the other dog lunges or pulls towards him, he can be reactive. Hes very smart and I believe with patience and positive training this can be worked through.

Finnegan is being fostered in South Williamsport, PA. Send questions to his foster home at loftus0828@gmail.com .

To submit an application follow the link https://www.acdra.org/adoption-application .

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.