* Interested in adopting? Please read the dog’s full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an application at www.dpsrescue.org.
All DPS Rescue dogs are spayed/neutered, up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations, dewormed, flea/tick treated, and microchipped prior to adoption.Adoption fee: $650
If you’re looking for a dog who believes personal space is optional, allow us to introduce Muffler Man. His favorite place in the world isn’t a dog bed, a couch, or even the backyard—it’s curled up directly against your neck like the world’s cutest living scarf.
At just 3-4 months old and about 15 pounds, Muffler Man is a sweet, sensitive little guy who came to rescue with his brother Stovepipe after the pair found themselves scared and overwhelmed in a shelter. Thankfully, they got their second chance, and Muffler Man has been steadily discovering that the world isn’t such a scary place after all.
From Shaky Shelter Pup to Playful Best Friend
When Muffler Man first arrived in foster care, he was terrified. He shook constantly, barely moved, and wasn't sure who he could trust. Fast forward a few weeks, and you’ll find him zooming around the yard with his four canine foster siblings, soaking up sunshine, and asking for cuddles whenever he gets the chance.
He can still be timid when meeting new people or experiencing new situations, and he isn't quite convinced that being picked up is a wonderful idea. But every day he grows a little braver. Once he decides you're part of his trusted circle, his affectionate personality shines through.
A Day in the Life of Muffler Man
Muffler Man starts his day around 8:30 AM with a potty break and breakfast. After fueling up, it's time for a morning play session with his dog friends before settling in for what may be one of his favorite activities: couch cuddling.
Throughout the day, he balances playtime with plenty of lounging. He enjoys hanging out in the yard while his foster mom works, soaking up the sun and watching the world go by. After lunch, there’s more playtime, more snuggles, and more opportunities to perfect the art of being adorable.
Evenings are spent relaxing nearby while dinner is prepared, followed by his own dinner at 8 PM. After a final round of TV-time cuddles and quality couch lounging, he heads out for one last potty break before curling up in bed—preferably as close to his human as physically possible.
Professional Cuddler, Amateur Explorer
Muffler Man has mastered the rare balance of being both playful and cuddly. He loves wrestling and romping with other dogs, but he’s equally happy spending hours curled up beside his favorite person.
He’s very much a companion dog who enjoys following his humans from room to room. If you move, chances are Muffler Man will move too. He wants to know what you're doing, where you're going, and whether there might be cuddles involved.
His foster family’s favorite thing about him? At bedtime, he snuggles right into the crook of your neck and falls asleep as close as possible. It’s impossible not to feel loved when Muffler Man decides you're his person.
Dog Friends Welcome
Having other dogs around has made a huge difference for Muffler Man. He currently lives with four small dogs and absolutely loves having canine companions to learn from and play with. Watching confident dogs has helped him gain confidence of his own.
He also lives with a cat and doesn't seem particularly interested in feline drama. As far as he's concerned, the cat exists and that's perfectly fine.
He hasn't been tested with children, but because he can be nervous and skittish, older, respectful kids or teenagers would likely be the best fit.
Training and Puppy Progress
Muffler Man is still a baby, so he's very much a work in progress. He's not crate trained, but he does fine when left home with the resident dogs and happily spends his time lounging on the couch. At night, he sleeps in bed with his foster family.
As a growing puppy, he's currently teething and enjoys chewing appropriate bones. He occasionally investigates planter beds and backyard treasures but isn't much of a digger.
When strangers arrive or when someone comes home, he may bark at first because he's unsure. Give him a moment to process what's happening, and his sweet personality quickly returns.
Looking for a Patient, Loving Home
Muffler Man's ideal home is one that understands that trust takes time. He doesn't need perfection—he needs patience, kindness, and people willing to let him move at his own pace.
A home with another friendly dog would be a huge bonus, as canine companionship has helped him blossom tremendously. While he can certainly adapt to different lifestyles, he'll thrive with adopters who enjoy having a loyal little shadow nearby and don't mind sharing their bed with a puppy who thinks cuddling is an Olympic sport.
Why You'll Love Muffler Man
Muffler Man is one of those dogs whose personality unfolds like a gift. Beneath the initial shyness is a goofy, loving, quirky puppy who wants nothing more than to feel safe, loved, and included.
If you already have a playful dog looking for a best friend—or if you're searching for a sweet puppy who will reward your patience with endless affection—Muffler Man just might be your perfect match.
SCHOOLYARD: HOPSCOTCH
Dachshund
🇺🇸
Palo Alto, California
female, small, baby
Dachshund
Palo Alto, California
