Kiwi - Labrador Retriever and Shepherd Dog for Adoption in Portland, Oregon

My name is Kiwi and I am a 5-month-old mixed breed puppy who currently weighs about 35 lbs.

I came up from Northern California to find my forever family! I have all the fun puppy qualities you would expect - I love people, enjoy treats (which makes training easier!), and am ready to explore everything the world has to offer.

For a young puppy, I'm actually doing pretty well on leash walks and enjoy getting out to see new things. Like all puppies, I'll still need continued guidance with potty training, crate training, basic manners, and learning what is and isn't appropriate to chew on.

The rescue I came from noted that I did well with other dogs, though we don't know much about what my previous living situation looked like. Here at ODR, where we are set up more like a doggy daycare environment, staff have noticed that I can be protective of beds and entry/exit gates around other dogs. This doesn't mean I can't live successfully with other dogs, but it is something my future family should be aware of and prepared to work on.

Resource guarding behaviors can become more established over time if not addressed appropriately. My future family should be committed to using positive reinforcement training to help me build confidence and learn that sharing space and resources is safe. Managing interactions around high-value resting areas and working proactively with a trainer if needed can help prevent these behaviors from expanding to other things like toys, food, resting spots, or even people.

Despite this, I'm still a sweet, social puppy with so much potential. I love people, I'm food motivated, and I'm at a great age to continue learning and developing good habits with the right guidance. I'm looking for a family who understands that puppies require time, training, and consistency, and who will help me grow into the best dog I can be.

If you're ready for puppy adventures, lots of love, and helping me navigate the world, I might just be the perfect addition to your family!

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.

The shepherd dog breed encompasses a versatile group known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong work ethic. With a heritage deeply rooted in herding and protecting livestock, shepherds excel at various tasks ranging from obedience and agility competitions to search and rescue missions. Their protective nature makes them excellent family pets, offering unwavering devotion and a natural instinct to watch over and care for their loved ones. In addition to their remarkable abilities, shepherds are often characterized by their distinctive appearance, including a sturdy build, alert expression, and a signature double coat that provides insulation and protection in various climates.