Australian Shepherd Dogs Available for Adoption in Ringwood, Illinois

Monte is fostered in Waterford, MI.

Meet Montague, or Monte! This handsome split-faced red merle Australian Shepherd male is approximately 8 years old weighing in at 39 lbs. Monte came into rescue from the a nearby helter, where he was surrendered by his owners of 6 years due to concerns about his behavior and the toddler in the home. He has somewhat of a prey drive resulting in a tendency to herd the "little humans". The herding behavior of working breeds may appear to be cute, but can result in adverse consequences for both child and dog. For this reason, Monte would be best suited for a fur-ever family that is an adult only home, or a home with children over the age of 12.

Monte has a personality as adorable as his face! He is always excited to meet new "big" people and loves to wiggle his butt as he leans into them for attention! He loves his toys, and is not a destroyer of stuffed toys, but rather prefers to carry "his babies" around with him gently. Monte is an avid ball player and loves to play fetch! Despite his age of 8 years, he is like the energizer bunny outside. Quite skilled as a ball catcher, Monte loves to show off all his leaping and spinning moves. Basic commands are a breeze for this guy and he knows Sit, Down and Stay. Advanced commands and talents his foster has discovered, making him even cuter if that's possible, are; Spin, Roll-Over and Stand/Dance by using hand signals. He loves his treats, but can be a bit of a resource guarder when it comes to food. He is also accustomed to being bathed and groomed on a regular basis.

Indoors, Monte is a quiet little follower. Silently plodding behind you as you walk around the house or even just choosing to rest silently in his crate as long as you are within his sight line. Monte is fully housebroken and crate-trained. Because of his uncertainty with other dogs in the fosters home, Monte voluntarily spends time in his crate which is his "safe space". Monte can be very dog selective, so meet and greets in a neutral location are necessary. His foster believes that Monte has been an only dog his entire life. He appears to lack the experience and "know all" to enable him to pick up on social cues from other dogs.

The foster has had Monte in Doggy Daycare a few times in the pursuit of helping him socialize and to expose him to various other dogs. His report card says he does good with some dogs and wants nothing to do with others. We have yet to discern what makes him tick in that respect, but he does not appear to not be fond of dominant dogs as he may consider himself the dominant dog. Cats are not recommended for Monte as he would much rather herd them than exist quietly with cats.

Monte has fairly good leash manners, always checking in and making eye contact while walking on leash...until he gets distracted or excited about meeting the next person walking by, at which point he will have a tendency to pull. He is refocused fairly easily with a slight change in direction and a quick verbal command. Monte also has really good recall, preferring to be at your side when you want him to be. If he gets out of your sight line while off-leash, a quick squeek of his ball or call of his name will bring him right back. Car rides are not an issue for this guy. He loves to go for rides and on new adventures, many times accompanying his foster mom to work. Monte will develop into a super loyal companion with the right humans to guide him and appreciate all he has to offer.

Monte's Needs:


A dedicated owner/family with older children and patience to continue his training and provide unlimited affection in exchange for butt wiggles and kisses.
A large, securely fenced in yard to run and play.


Monte's Wants:


An Adventure Buddy or Family that will take him on walks and provide him with lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation.
An unlimited supply of toys/balls to play with and snacks to beg for.


Monte is neutered, negative for all tick borne diseases, up to date on vaccinations, is microchipped, dewormed and on monthly prevention for fleas, ticks and heartworm. Proof of heartworm prevention for any current or previous pets is required to adopt from our organization. For more information on our adoption process, please visit our website at www.MidwestAustralianShepherdRescue.org.

NOTE: All of our dogs live in foster homes with volunteers so we need an approved application on file to set up a meet with a dog you might have an interest in. Please visit our website for more information on our adoption process, our adoption fees and a link to our adoption application. We pride ourselves on matches that work for both the dog and your family. MASR is here for your support, advice and safety net for our dogs for the remainder of their lives. www.MidwestAustralianShepherdRescue.org

The Australian Shepherd is a highly intelligent and energetic herding dog known for its loyalty and work ethic. Originating in the United States, despite its name, this breed is prized for its agility, trainability, and versatility in various dog sports and activities. Australian Shepherds have a distinctive medium length coat that comes in different colors, often with unique merle patterns. With proper training, socialization, and exercise, these dogs make excellent companions for active families and individuals seeking a devoted and playful four legged friend.

Our mission is to rescue Australian Shepherds and other working breeds from abuse, neglect, strays, and owners in dire need...