Ruger - Cattle Dog and Labrador Retriever Dog for Adoption in Kansas City, Missouri

Pet Location: Ruger is currently living in a foster home. If you'd like to schedule a time to meet him, please contact Wayside Adoptions at (816) 986-4426.

My Friends at Wayside say:
-I was house-trained and crate-trained in my previous home as well as in my foster home.
-I had experience living successfully around cats in my previous home.
- I currently live with other dogs in my foster home.
-I have a lot of energy and need an active adopter!
-Chews, Kong-like feeders, puzzle toys—help to keep me entertained!
- I am eligible for a Slumber Pawty, a 7-10 day in-home trial period. Please visit our website for additional information.

My home needs are:
-I must meet other dogs in the home before adoption to ensure that we can be buddies.

Hi there, I’m Ruger! I’m such a good dog! I’m the perfect combination of quiet, calm, and chill mixed with playful, silly, and so much fun. I have so much to offer. I know what it means to be a beloved family dog. That’s all I’ve ever been, and I want that again. I hope maybe you’re looking for a dog like me to share your life with. I’m ready and waiting for you now.

I’m a handsome, 6-year-old, 64-pound Cattle Dog/Lab mix, with beautiful black fur, the sweetest face, and a happy, loyal, delightful personality. I’m even already fully housebroken and crate trained too. I’ve lived my entire life since I was just a wee pup with the same family, and I’ve had a happy life. But I grew into a bigger and more active dog than they had wanted. So here I am, ready for my second chance at a happy life as a family dog. Still, coming to the shelter was such a lonely and confusing time for me. I felt nervous and afraid. Of course, I was so relieved when Foster Mom came into my life. She took me home to give me a break from the shelter and to show me the kindness that I crave and deserve. Ah, I can relax now. And as my personality has blossomed in foster, my joyful and goofy side has come shining through.

I settled right in and made myself at home in foster. I quickly learned my new routine. I happily stay in my crate near Foster Mom’s other dogs, who are also crated, when she is at work. If she’s just out running quick errands, we can all be trusted to roam free in the house without any issues. In fact, my house manners are perfect, and I don’t bother a thing. At night, I peacefully sleep in the bedroom on the floor or on the foot of the bed, although I like the comfort of curling up next to my foster parents if a thunderstorm rolls through. I rarely bark, but when I do, I have a deep and powerful voice. I love to sit close to both of my foster parents on the couch, but I’m not interested in cuddling or snuggling. Just knowing that they’re nearby is enough for me. I’m sort of independent, happy to hang out on my own at times too. I like when visitors stop by, and I’m friendly and polite with them, greeting them at the door along with the other dogs, but never barking at or jumping on them. I’m an easy, low-maintenance dog and a wonderful friend.

I enjoy playing with my toys, especially tennis balls, and I never turn down a fun game of fetch. I’ve never tried to escape from our fenced yard, where I like to explore and play, but I’m always ready to come back inside too. I love going for walks in our neighborhood or on the local trails. I walk just great on my leash with minimal pulling, and I’m not reactive with anyone I see along the way.

I successfully lived with cats, kids, and a variety of people in my previous home. I also recently met Foster Mom’s grandkids, and I did fantastic with them! I let the 3-year-old gently pet me, and I politely sniffed the baby. I didn’t jump up or bark at all. I was just happy to meet the family! I currently live with 2 other dogs, who I get along with just fine. We don’t play together, but we’re happy to coexist and keep each other company. I prefer calm and polite dogs who will give me my space. If you have another dog, I will need to meet them before we go home together to make sure that we’re a good match. Overall, I should get along really well in all sorts of homes. I just need kind people who will give me attention and care for me like a true member of the family. I’ve been through a lot of change lately, so please stay patient with me as I get settled with you.

I’m in the prime of my life, ready to belong once again, and to be an important part of my new family. Change can be hard, and life really is so unpredictable, but I have hope and faith for a bright future. All I need is someone to believe in me and to give me a chance. I’ll take it from there. I can’t wait to be your dog!

Love, Ruger

The Cattle Dog is a diligent and robust herding breed known for its agility, intelligence, and hardworking nature. Originating in Australia, Cattle Dogs are highly energetic and require ample exercise and mental stimulation. With their remarkable problem solving skills and unwavering loyalty, they excel in various canine activities and make excellent companions for active owners. Their distinctive blue or red coat, sturdy build, and alert expression reflect their heritage as versatile working dogs.

The Labrador Retriever is a popular and versatile dog breed known for its friendly demeanor and high intelligence. These dogs are often used as guide dogs for the visually impaired, search and rescue dogs, and excellent family pets. Labradors are known for their great sense of smell, strong build, and love of water, making them exceptional hunters and swimmers. With their loyal and loving nature, Labradors have rightfully earned their reputation as one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world.

Preparing pets and people for the bond of their lives.