** This is an Out Of Town listing. We transport to the city on this listing. Please apply at www.bit.ly/mu-adopt **
Meet Abbot — a stunning Dutch Shepherd/Malinois mix with the intelligence, drive, and intensity these incredible breeds are known for. At just over 2.5 years old, Abbot is right at the age where he’s ready to become an amazing lifelong partner in the right home.
Abbot is very smart. He notices everything, learns quickly, and absolutely needs direction and purpose to thrive. Like many young working-breed dogs, he’s still learning appropriate outlets for his energy and excitement—especially when it comes to using those teeth. He’s not a bad dog at all, but he is a powerful, driven dog who will need structure, consistency, and continued training to help him succeed.
Let’s be honest: Abbot is not the right fit for every home, and that’s okay. We are specifically searching for the right adopter for him, not just the fastest one. Experience with Dutch Shepherds, Malinois, or similar working breeds is strongly preferred because these dogs are not average companion pets. They need engagement, routine, enrichment, and meaningful activity to truly flourish.
Abbot will do best with someone who enjoys working with dogs and understands the importance of giving them a job. Whether that’s advanced training, hiking, agility, scent work, obedience, or another structured activity, Abbot wants to use both his brain and body. He’s looking for a partnership, not just a backyard.
And for the right person, the reward is incredible. Dogs like Abbot form deep bonds with their people and become fiercely loyal, highly capable companions. Beneath all his energy is a dog who genuinely wants guidance, connection, and a chance to succeed. We know Abbot has the potential to become an extraordinary dog in the right environment. Applicants with breed experience—or a thoughtful, realistic plan for training and enrichment—will be given strong preference. We do not intend to adopt Abbot and his brothers into homes with young children due to their training needs. He'll be fine in a home with a dog that can match his energy and playstyle.
If you’re ready for a dog who will challenge you, grow with you, and become your most loyal companion, Abbot might just be your guy. Apply at the link below and tell us why you’re the perfect fit for him.
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HOW TO APPLY TO ADOPT:
Start by filling out our online application at www.bit.ly/mu-adopt
Once submitted, we will reach out to approved applicants by phone. We may also suggest other amazing dogs in our care who could be a great fit for your home.
**NOTE: Completed applications take priority over Petfinder inquiries or emails.
LOCATION & TRANSPORT:
This dog is currently in South Mississippi. Local and out-of-town adopters are welcome. For out of town adopters, we offer virtual meet-and-greets and can arrange transport to many states in the Northeast. (The $475 adoption fee includes transport to the city on this listing. Our transports run every 2-3 weeks to that location.) We cannot adopt to Rhode Island due to import restrictions.
VETTING:
All of our dogs are cleared by a licensed veterinarian for transport and arrive to their adopters spayed/neutered with age-appropriate vaccines completed and are microchipped.
To see more of the fur babies we rescue and love, follow us on Facebook: Misfits & Underdogs (www.facebook.com/61575337895248)
ZELDA
Labrador Retriever, Terrier
🇺🇸
Gulfport, Mississippi
female, medium, baby
Labrador Retriever, Terrier
Gulfport, Mississippi
