Otto is a young dog, with an estimated birthday of June 26, 2024. He was found as a stray and not claimed through an Ontario shelter.
Being a Miniature Pinscher (presumably some mix in there) he really struggled with the confinement of a kennel at a shelter, so he was transferred to rescue and was able to join a foster home.
Otto has done really great in his foster home. He has exposure to a toddler that is very dog savvy and they were quickly besties. He's also in foster care with a cat without an concerns. Otto is great with dogs he meets, but he is jealous of the resident dog and would prefer to not share a lap so I think Otto would be best as a solo dog in the home.
Can he have visiting dogs over? Absolutely. Can he hang out with dogs he meets and be kind and playful? 100%. But I think his vibe is having his people and the attention to himself and I'll respect that.
Miniature Pinscher's are not for 1st time dog owners and an adopter with terrier experience and dog experience in general will be very important. Not for any behaviour issues we've seen, but these are very proud, fearless, fun-loving dogs that require experienced handlers to keep them out of trouble and also a lifestyle that will keep them physically and mentally healthy.
Otto, like many Miniature Pinscher's is very active, busy and can be quite an athlete. He will require a decent amount of exercise. He's not a couch potato unless he's physical needs have been met, then he'll cozy up on the couch for hours, happiest if his person is right there beside him.
A quick walk around the block is not going to satisfy Otto, but that said, he also won't require hours of hiking daily either. He'll just need to get out for some good walks and yard play time daily.
Otto can be very "busy" when he's in new situations and can pace and be in "search mode". I imagine this will be his "mode" the 1st couple days, post adoption, until he settles in, so someone willing to understand the process will need to be worked through is important.
Miniature Pinscher can be more vocal dogs, though we're not seeing a lot of barking from Otto, the breed is known to choose vocalization. We may not have heard his voice, just yet. He's been out of the shelter since August.
He was recently neutered on arrival, and he did mark the 1st few days in his foster home, which is why he's wearing a belly band in one of his photos. This may reoccur on his arrival to his adopters home as well, so we will supply a few days of belly bands. Though typically, this male dog behaviour fades post-neuter.
They are shedders and surprisingly, shedding happens more than you'd expect, with those short, dense coats on their body. It'll also get caught up in the fabrics of your clothes and even your couch ... I know ... I've experienced it first hand as Min Pins have been my breed of choice for over 2 decades.
Otto will make an amazing and loyal companion. Though they're not easy dogs, they sure are a lot of fun and their dedication to their people is immense.
Otto will benefit and LOVE working with a professional trainer to fine tune some of his skills. There's nothing crazy that he needs work on, but like many dogs, learning to do better is a gift we can give dogs we welcome home.
FROM THE FOSTER:
The Velveteen Otto!
A little gentleman with a big appetite for affection.
With his sleek red coat and wonderfully velvety ears, Otto is the sweetest Miniature Pinscher whose curiosity, enthusiasm and “so happy to see you” personality are impossible to miss. Friendly with everyone he has met, he has wasted no time making himself part of the family.
He would love to be best friends with our Terrier, Finley, if only Finley’s selective attitude would allow it. Our laid-back cat, Lucas, has also been welcomed, although the smell of his dinner interests Otto considerably more than the cat himself.
Otto’s greatest talent is being your shadow. Sit down and he is beside you; turn on the television and he is draped across your lap. Someone joins you? A new favourite person! Belly rubs are always welcome, and the belly is readily presented. The boy has no shame. We have been working on him sitting beside you as opposed to on you. He remains a very quiet dog, with little protests when being in a different room prevents him from keeping you company.
A quick study, Otto is doing well with “come” and “sit” and learning our routines. He has just learned to use our stairs with the greatest elation. His endless curiosity and quick energy mean he misses very little. Your attention keeps him happily close, although an independent expedition is never entirely off his radar if he hears something new.
When he decides to stop moving, you will find him among the pillows and blankets, thank you very much. Once comfortable, he is out cold for his beauty sleep. His best spot is tucked in tight beside me with his head under my arm. He is good on outdoor bathroom breaks and has even selected one spot in the yard for his business, thoughtfully simplifying cleanup.
This little whirlwind is learning to slow his pace but it never stops him from entering the room like the Tasmanian Devil at times. His full attention, and twitchy tale always make me smile. Having his people, a little adventure, a soft landing and plenty of affection: that is Otto’s idea of a wonderful life. He has made it into all of our hearts in the best way possible.
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$875 ADOPTION FEE INCLUDES: spay/neuter, deworming, flea/tick prevention, vaccinations, dentals if needed or any added surgical needed surgical care, food, nose to tail health exam, toys, leash/collar, winter coat (seasonal), poop bags, dishes and 30 days of Trupanion pet insurance with immediate coverage on adoption day for any illness or injury not pre-existing.
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To note: the above description is relevant to this dog in it's current & previous setting. Home changes & adopter personalities can bring out different behaviours not previously seen.
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Mattie's Place does not deem any dog in our care hypoallergenic, allergy-free or non-allergenic. Unless you are willing to take daily medication to manage dog allergies, please do not apply to adopt because I can't risk a dog being returned due to allergic reactions.
OTTO
Miniature Pinscher
🇨🇦
Toronto, Ontario
male, small, young
Miniature Pinscher
Toronto, Ontario
