Boxer and Mastiff Dogs Available for Adoption in Amherst, Massachusetts

Meet Yuli!

A spirited five-year-old Boxer mix currently in Springfield, OR, whose essence is a heartwarming blend of devotion and goofy charm wrapped in a handsome brown brindle coat with white accents.

Affectionately nicknamed a “velvet hippo,” this 90-pound sweetheart is the epitome of a loyal companion! Yuli is happiest when he's close to his humans, whether that means curling up beside you with his head in your lap or trotting along at your side with a rope toy in his mouth. He’ll gently nudge you for belly rubs, lean in for snuggles, or suggest a friendly game of tug with those big, soulful eyes. He thrives on routine, feels most secure when he knows what to expect, and benefits from calm, structured transitions when something new is happening in the home, and truly bonds deeply with his people.

Yuli is house-trained, crate-trained, and knows a full repertoire of commands, including sit, stay, off, leave it, and even spin! His energy is moderate, he enjoys a solid daily walk and a few rousing rounds of fetch with his favorite ball, but after that, he’s all about those cozy afternoon naps. A true gentleman indoors, Yuli knows the difference between chew toys and furniture, although he’s a self-proclaimed “Super Chewer” who does best with durable nylon or rubber toys.

Social with people, Yuli has made fast friends with many of the humans in his neighborhood and enjoys greeting familiar faces on his strolls. In the home, he can take a little time to settle when unfamiliar guests first arrive and may bark excitedly at new visitors until he feels comfortable. This is not aggressive or protective behavior, and he does best with a calm introduction and a short decompression period (often with a chew or crate time) before joining the group. Once he knows someone, he greets them happily without barking. He’s especially compatible with adults and older children (ages 10+) who understand the art of a gentle pat rather than a tight hug, he’s affectionate but doesn’t love being grabbed.

Yuli’s one challenge lies in his leash reactivity. He’s working on staying calm and focused in the presence of other dogs, especially when approached suddenly by off-leash pups. He would flourish with an experienced and patient pet parent committed to ongoing positive reinforcement and behavior support. Because of this, Yuli is best suited to be the only pet in a home with a fenced yard where he can safely explore, fetch, and sniff to his heart’s content.

With a chicken allergy, Yuli requires a chicken-free diet tailored to support his sensitive skin. Aside from that, he’s a healthy, happy boy eager to share his next chapter with a confident guardian who can help him feel secure and supported.

Could Yuli be the snuggle-loving sidekick your family’s been waiting for?

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

Content Notice: This pet is represented by Joyful Pets. All photos, descriptions, and behavioral summaries are proprietary and may not be republished, altered, or used by third-party platforms. Any unapproved aggregation or rewriting of this listing is strictly prohibited.

The boxer is a medium to large sized dog breed known for its muscular build, distinctive square head, and energetic personality. Boxers are loyal, affectionate, and good natured companions, making them an ideal family pet. They are intelligent, playful, and love to be around people, making them excellent with children. Boxers require consistent training, plenty of exercise, and socialization to thrive. With their strong work ethic and protective instincts, boxers excel in various roles, including as service dogs, therapy dogs, and in dog sports.

The Mastiff, a large and powerful breed with a history dating back to ancient times, is known for its gentle and loyal nature. These dogs are devoted family companions, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Despite their imposing size, Mastiffs are typically calm and patient, making them excellent protectors and watchdogs. With a distinctive wrinkled face and a massive build, Mastiffs require proper training and socialization to thrive in various environments.

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