Meet Ziggy!
This adorable, popped ear little fella somehow found himself at a high kill shelter in Houston, Texas. When his time came to be added to the euthanasia list, a volunteer who had spent time with him shared the cutest pictures of him bopping around the outdoor runs, happy as could be, completely unaware of what was about to happen to him.
One look at those ears, that scruffy little face, and his goofy personality, and we knew we had to save him. Thankfully, his foster family didn’t hesitate to say yes, and just like that, Ziggy got his second chance!
Now, on to the best part. Ziggy himself!
Ziggy is estimated to be around 2 years old and weighs approximately 16 pounds. He’s a tiny little guy with a long body, a scruffy coat, adorable polka dots, and ears that seem to have a personality of their own. Seriously, we’re not sure how someone managed to fit this much cute into one little dog.
But don’t let his size fool you. Ziggy is a BIG dog trapped in a little dog’s body.
If you’re looking for a tiny companion who wants to spend his days lounging in your lap, Ziggy probably isn’t your guy. This little dude has places to go, squirrels to investigate, mountains to climb, and adventures to be had. He has the energy and enthusiasm of a dog three times his size, and he’s looking for someone who will embrace that. But don't get us wrong he has an off switch and also loves attention and is the sweetest little cuddly soul once the days adventures are done.
Ziggy is incredibly smart, active, and curious. He loves spending time outside, especially patrolling the backyard at his foster home. He would make an awesome companion for someone who enjoys hiking, exploring, going on long walks, or just getting outside and doing things together.
He’s currently being fostered with other dogs, and he absolutely loves having furry friends to play with. However, we do need to mention one of Ziggy’s less charming hobbies. Our little Casanova has a tendency to hump other dogs from time to time, particularly when he’s feeling anxious or overstimulated. Yes, we’re putting that in his adoption bio because we’re all about transparency around here!
The good news is that his foster family has been working on redirecting this behavior, and he’s already making progress. We think Ziggy could absolutely thrive with another dog, but his ideal canine companion would either be confident enough to establish boundaries or laid-back enough not to engage with his shenanigans. He could also be perfectly happy as an only dog with an active family who gives him plenty of attention and exercise.
As far as his house manners go, Ziggy has quite a few gold stars!
He’s potty trained, kennel trained, and walks beautifully on a leash with very little pulling. He does have a mild prey drive, so the occasional squirrel might catch his attention, but he’s generally responsive to redirection and listens well. He also does great in the car and absolutely loves tagging along for adventures. Whether you’re headed to the park, the trails, or just out for a drive, Ziggy is ready to hop in and see where the day takes him.
Ziggy has also done well with children! Because he’s an energetic little guy who can get jumpy and super wiggly when excited, we think a home with older children or younger kids who are comfortable around active dogs would be the best fit.
He hasn’t been tested with cats, so we can’t say for certain how he would do. His prey drive appears relatively mild, which is encouraging, but any home with cats would need to be prepared for slow, thoughtful introductions and appropriate supervision.
So, what kind of forever home are we looking for?
First and foremost, Ziggy needs someone who appreciates that small dogs can have big personalities and even bigger exercise needs. He would thrive with an active adopter who is committed to continuing his training, providing structure, and giving him plenty of opportunities to burn off that enthusiastic little motor of his.
We are also looking for a home with a securely fenced yard or suitable private outdoor space. Ziggy absolutely LOVES having a backyard to explore, patrol, and play in. While many small dogs do wonderfully in apartments, we don’t think apartment living would be the best match for Ziggy’s energy level and personality.
Ziggy absolutely adores his foster mama. He loves attention, happily rolls onto his back for belly rubs, and soaks up every ounce of affection he can get. He’s funny, loving, smart, and full of personality. The kind of dog who will make you laugh every single day just by being himself.
Ziggy isn’t looking for someone who wants a cute little accessory to carry around. He’s looking for a best friend. Someone who will take him on adventures, laugh at his goofy antics, help him become the best version of himself, and then give him all the belly rubs he can handle when the day is done.
We think whoever adopts this scruffy little goofball is going to have an absolute blast with him.
Ziggy is currently located in Houston, Texas, but is available for adoption to approved homes across the country.
His adoption fee is $600, which includes the cost of transport to his forever home. If you’re seeing his profile, there’s a good chance we have a transport stop near you!
The first step in our adoption process is submitting and application:
https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/DSTR/Dog
ROXY
Doberman Pinscher, Australian Kelpie
🇺🇸
Houston, Texas
female, large, baby
Doberman Pinscher, Australian Kelpie
Houston, Texas
