Gracie - Border Terrier and Parson Russell Terrier Dog for Adoption in Palo Alto, California

* To be considered for a meet/adoption, please read the full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an online application at www.dpsrescue.org. * This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, October 10th from 12PM – 3PM (unless adopted prior to the event). 3910 Middlefield Road
All DPS Rescue dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, flea/tick treated, and microchipped prior to adoption.
Adoption fee: $650
Gracie: Amazing Cuddles, Occasional Sock Heists
Age: 6 monthsWeight: 11 lbsBreed: Terrier mixCoat: Low to moderate shedding
Gracie has two settings: “Let’s get this party started” and “Please rub my belly.” This 6 month old Terrier mix was rescued from a shelter, and she’s making the most of her new life with zoomies, doggy friendships, and a very enthusiastic morning kissing routine. At just 11 pounds, she fits beautifully beside you on the couch—and somehow manages to fit an impressive amount of personality into that little body.
Part Puppy, Part Professional Snuggler
Feeling playful? Gracie is ready for toys, tug-of-war, and a spirited romp with a canine buddy. She had a wonderful time playing with her fellow foster dog, Chalupa, with the two enjoying wrestling sessions before collapsing for a well-earned nap. Fetch remains a mysterious concept, but borrowing a slipper or sock? That she understands perfectly. She generally carries off her prize rather than destroying it, apparently subscribing to the philosophy that the fun is in the heist.
When the festivities are over, Gracie becomes a devoted cuddle companion. She loves curling up beside her person for belly rubs and affection. She sleeps on her foster’s bed through the night, waits for her person to stir in the morning, and then gets to work delivering kisses. Her foster’s favorite thing about her is this sweet morning ritual—and it’s easy to see why.
She’s clever, too. Gracie mastered the stairs to the bed almost immediately and once squeezed through a tiny opening in a crate. A comfortable destination and a little determination can take this girl far!
A Little Dog with Excellent House Manners
Gracie starts her day around 6 a.m. with a potty outing and walk, followed by breakfast. She sometimes prefers to graze, although she’s becoming more consistent about eating her morning meal.
Her housetraining has been outstanding: she has not had a single accident in her foster home. Her future family should continue giving her regular potty breaks, but she already has a terrific foundation.
While her foster is at work, Gracie stays in the bedroom. She may whine or give a few barks when her person leaves, then settles down and spends much of the day sleeping on the bed. After work, she’s ready for another walk, some playtime, and an evening of couch cuddles. She can spend time in a crate, although she needs time to settle and currently sleeps in bed with her foster.
As a young puppy, she has occasionally sampled a pillow corner or coffee table, so appropriate chew toys and gentle redirection will help her through this stage.
Making Friends—and Learning How to Say Hello
Gracie enjoys people and other dogs once she has had a comfortable introduction. At the DPS Safehouse, she has done well off leash with dogs and has also been around the resident cat. During one visit, she initially barked at a larger dog, then happily enjoyed that dog’s company once they had space to sniff and greet. She also climbed onto a 10-year-old boy’s chest, settled in, and licked his chin. Clearly, she takes making new friends very personally.
She has also behaved nicely during visits to work, someone else’s home, and restaurants, including an outing with other dogs.
Her Next Assignment: Leash Skills
Gracie’s biggest challenge is her reaction to people and dogs on neighborhood and park walks. She can bark intensely and pull hard, even when she would ultimately like to make friends. She now walks in a harness, and her adopter will need to commit to patient, consistent training to help her walk comfortably and see others without getting so worked up. Calm introductions have helped her in several settings, but ongoing work on her leash reactions will be an essential part of her adoption.
She also has opinions about hallway noises, passing people, and delivery trucks, which she announces with barking. Families in apartments or condos should consider how that may fit their surroundings.
Gracie’s Kind of Family
Gracie could thrive in a variety of homes with people who enjoy both puppy play and serious snuggle time. Another friendly, playful dog could be a wonderful match, and her affectionate interaction with a 10-year-old suggests she could enjoy a family with respectful children.
Above all, she needs adopters who will embrace the training that comes with a bright young dog. Gracie brings the affection, the humor, and the excellent morning kisses. Her family’s job is to help her turn all that enthusiasm into good manners—and keep an eye on their slippers.

The Border Terrier is a small, fearless, and affectionate breed known for their devotion to their families. With a wiry, weather resistant coat and an otter like head, they were originally bred for hunting foxes and vermin along the Scottish border. These energetic and intelligent dogs excel in various canine activities, including agility and obedience. Their friendly and playful demeanor makes them wonderful companions for active families, especially those who enjoy outdoor adventures with their loyal four legged friends.

The Parson Russell Terrier is a spirited and intelligent breed known for their energetic nature and strong hunting instincts. These small to medium sized dogs have a compact, athletic build with a wiry coat that can be either smooth or rough. They are highly active and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. With their playful demeanor and friendly personality, Parson Russell Terriers make loyal companions for active families who can provide them with the attention and exercise they need.

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