Jasper - Cockapoo Dog for Adoption in Baltimore, Maryland

**MEET JASPER**

Jasper is not your typical adoption story.

He is an adult Cockapoo with behavioral challenges, but underneath his fear and anxiety is a sweet boy who desperately wants to feel safe and learn that the world isn't such a scary place.

Jasper is a very nervous and sensitive dog who needs an experienced adopter willing to be patient, move slowly, and continue helping him build confidence. He has **fear-based aggression and reactivity**, so his new family must understand his behavior and be committed to working with him rather than expecting him to immediately adjust.

The good news? Jasper has been making progress. His separation anxiety has improved, and he is doing AMAZING with housetraining. He has not had a single accident in his foster home! He is also crate trained, although he will initially bark when his person leaves.

Jasper can bark at noises and may be reactive toward other dogs while on leash. He is currently taking Prozac and gabapentin to help manage his anxiety.

Jasper's ideal home:

• Experienced with nervous, reactive, or behaviorally challenged dogs
• **No children**
• **Fenced-in yard required**
• A home rather than an apartment would likely be best due to his reactivity
• Someone willing to continue behavioral training and confidence building
• Someone who understands that trust takes time

Because Jasper is extremely sensitive, his adoption will require slow introductions and a minimum two-week shutdown period. This is mandatory. His new family will need to give him time to decompress and adjust without overwhelming him.

But here's the part we don't want you to miss.

Once Jasper starts to trust you, you get to see the dog underneath all that fear.

He loves being right next to his person, curling up on the couch and being a total couch potato. And when he's feeling comfortable? He LOVES to play fetch.

Jasper isn't going to be the right dog for everyone, and that's okay.

We're looking for the right person for him. Someone who sees a scared dog who needs help, not a bad dog. Someone who is willing to celebrate the little victories, respect his boundaries, and give him the time he needs to become the confident dog we know is in there.

Jasper has already come a long way. Now he needs someone willing to continue that journey with him.

If you have experience with behavioral dogs and believe you may be the right fit for Jasper, please apply to adopt.

The Cockapoo is a popular hybrid dog breed known for its friendly and affectionate nature, making it a wonderful companion for families and individuals alike. A mix between Cocker Spaniels and Poodles, Cockapoos are intelligent and easy to train, making them great for first-time dog owners. They come in a variety of colors and coat textures, ranging from curly to straight, and require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and free of matting. Cockapoos thrive on human interaction and are social, making them ideal for households looking for a loyal and loving pet.

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