At first glance, Niko Bear looks like the kind of dog that should have his own action movie. He's big. He's handsome. He's covered in little scars that make him look like he's lived a thousand adventures. He's got that dark, mysterious, tough-guy look that turns heads wherever he goes. And then you meet him. Five minutes later he's quietly leaning his entire body weight into you for affection and looking at you with the softest eyes imaginable. The truth about Niko is that underneath that rugged exterior is one of the sweetest, gentlest souls you'll ever meet. He's basically a teddy bear disguised as a tough guy.
Watch his video and prepare to fall in love with this gentle giant: https://youtu.be/tnGR9OtVobw?si=71k9wSQ6c8XWQodv
Niko Bear is approximately 4 years old, weighs around 74 lbs, and we believe he may be a Pittie/Shepherd mix. With rescue it's always a mystery and we can never guarantee breed or age. What we do know is that he's absolutely stunning. His sleek black coat, soulful eyes, and ruggedly handsome face make quite the first impression. Thankfully, his personality is even better.
Niko is the definition of a gentle giant. He has a calm, easygoing way about him that makes life feel a little less rushed. He's not the type that's constantly looking for excitement or demanding your attention. He's perfectly content moseying through life at his own pace, taking in the scenery, finding a comfy spot to relax, and enjoying the company of his people.
One of our favorite things about Niko is how sweet and innocent he is. He may look like a dog that has seen some things, but his heart is pure gold. When meeting new people, he can take a minute to warm up. Not because he's difficult or standoffish, but because he's thoughtful. He likes to take things in first. Then, before you know it, he's slowly making his way over and leaning his whole body into you for affection. Not in a demanding way. Not in a clingy way. Just in a sweet "I think I like you" kind of way that melts your heart every single time.
Niko is also dog friendly and has done well with every dog we've introduced him to. He's currently fostered in a multi-dog home with dogs of all sizes, personalities, and temperaments. Confident males, confident females, more dominant personalities, easygoing personalities, Niko has met them all and handled every introduction beautifully. The funny thing is that while all the other dogs are busy running around and playing, Niko is usually off doing his own thing. During his assessment, he spent much of his time wandering around the yard, enjoying the sunshine, and occasionally taking a relaxing soak in a giant mud puddle. Apparently puddle lounging is one of his hobbies. We support it.
Even in his foster home, Niko isn't particularly concerned with what the other dogs are doing. He's happy to coexist and enjoy their company without needing constant interaction. Every now and then he'll engage in what his foster lovingly calls "lazy mouthy play" with her large male Husky mix. It's exactly what it sounds like. No wild wrestling matches. No zoomies. Just two dogs laying around gently mouthing at each other like they can't quite be bothered to stand up. It's honestly pretty adorable. Because of this, we think Niko would do best with another dog that shares his outlook on life. A dog that enjoys companionship without needing a full-time playmate. A dog that appreciates hanging out together while each doing their own thing.
Niko also met our house cat Biggie and met him appropriately and was very respectful around him. He did not chase Biggie, nor was he bothered by Biggie jumping or doing what cats do. Biggie also seemed to feel comfortable around him as well. We do not know if he has ever lived in a home before with a cat and this was our first time seeing him with a cat. If you have a cat in the home, we can arrange for Niko to have a sleepover with a cat upon request. Just let us know!
Niko is potty trained and has wonderful house manners. While he's still building confidence with the crate, his foster reports that he's improving every day. The good news is that he's not destructive and has proven himself to be a respectful houseguest. He has a really relaxed energy about him too and isn't the type that needs daily exercise. Niko is working on his leash skills and getting more comfortable with a leash but we believe hell be a great mosey around the neighborhood companion. We can also see him being a great work from home buddy or a pal to hangout with you in your backyard. Speaking of, we do believe that he would be happiest in a home with a backyard rather than an apartment. He really enjoys being outside moseying around the yard, smelling all the smells and taking in the fresh air at his own pace.
Overall, Niko is the kind of dog that feels like an old friend. The kind of dog that quietly follows you from room to room, settles nearby while you work, and reminds you that not every day needs to be exciting to be a good day.
If you're looking for a sweet, steady companion with a heart as big as his head, Niko might just be your perfect match. He may look like the tough guy in the movie, but trust us, he's actually the soft-hearted teddy bear everybody ends up rooting for.
We are willing to test Niko Bear with anything you need in order to ensure it's a perfect match. We can make anything happen! Just let us know.
Ready to welcome a new furry friend into your life? Apply today!
https://adopt.animalsfirst.com/animal/62cc8e128b02916730334440/6a2ae88d8d95c7cf580d6213
Questions? Email kristin@threelittlepittiesrescue.org
We facilitate adoptions nationwide using our rescue run USDA certified transport system, ensuring every pet travels safely and comfortably with 24/7 care. Our transport includes drop off locations, in WA, UT, OR, ID, VA, PA, OH, NY, CT, VT, TN, KY, WI, MN, IL, WI and Canada (pick up in Bellingham, WA, Buffalo, NY or Brattleboro, VT for for Canadian adopters). You will have the opportunity to track their journey in real time, see photo updates, learn fun facts, connect with fellow adopters and fosters through our private Facebook event page!
Before the adoption is finalized, you will meet your pet through a video call, creating a fun and personalized experience!
The adoption fee is $1000 and includes all vetting (DAPP with booster, Bordetella, Rabies vaccine, multiple broad spectrum deworming treatments, spay/neuter, flea prevention, a 12 month heartworm preventative injectable, heartworm test and treatment if needed, a microchip with free lifetime registration, a high quality nylon Martingale collar, a health certificate deeming the pup healthy for travel, cost of transport*, and priceless years of love and loyal companionship!
We proudly have over 17,000 successful adoptions and excellent Google Reviews:
https://g.co/kgs/UQ5Pyai We care deeply about creating lasting matches between dog and family for long term success, and take the time to ensure each adoption is a fit through our matchmaking process.
At our 2 acre Texas based property, we assess every animal with trainers on staff, we modify behavior as needed, and create individualized behavior plans to help prepare dogs for their future families including crate training, potty training, leash walking, etc. Our fosters are able to attend group training and socialization play groups helping them stay confident, well rounded, and adoption-ready. Our on-site trainers are dedicated to each dogs growth and we enjoy seeing their progress!
We go above and beyond to ensure every animal receives exceptional care. Veterinarians consistently praise our medical standards. From routine care to advanced treatments, each dog receives personalized attention. Hard costs for a healthy dog range from $804-$920; heartworm-positive dogs or those needing specialized care can exceed $2,000+. Adoption fees help cover a portion of these expenses, but without government funding, we rely on fundraising to bridge the gapranging from $100$1,000+ per dog.
Our adoption fees reflect the extensive care and resources that go into each animal we save. The adoption fee is a donation to the mission and goes far beyond getting a fully vetted pet.
It doesn't stop there! Our adopters also receive these SPECIAL PERKS:
Extensive behavioral testing and information from trainers on our staff to ensure the perfect fit for your family
Discounts on Embark DNA test kit- $30 off of Breed ID test or $50 off of Breed ID plus Health test
30 day trial of pet insurance with Trupanion
A free private online dog training session with GoodPup, plus low pricing for future sessions
Access to multiple dog trainers in your area, along with $40 off of your first session of in person dog training through Rover Training
70% off of your first order of Fetch, a delicious PNW based fresh dog meatballs subscription
Coupons for a fun visit to Petco
20% off of Dr. Cuddles pet first aid and hygiene solutions
Discounted heartworm, flea prevention, and monthly dewormer
Access to our exclusive FB Adopters page, where you can network for play dates, resources, and connect with other adopters that share their passion for their adopted pup!
The Greater Houston area faces one of the highest stray and overpopulation rates in the U.S. Were a nonprofit on a missionto rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs at risk, while promoting spay/neuter outreach in the community. When you adopt, you save more than one life the one you adopted, and the space opened up to save another.
Follow our journey and stay connected!
threelittlepittiesrescue.org
facebook.com/threelittlepittiesrescue
instagram.com/threelittlepittiesrescue
Ready to welcome a new furry friend into your life? APPLY TODAY and become a hero for pets in need!
*Due to rising transportation costs, a $87 surcharge applies.
DISCLAIMER- Breed type is determined based on general appearance and behavioral characteristics, and cannot be guaran
CASTIEL
Wirehaired Terrier, Chihuahua
🇺🇸
Friendswood, Texas
male, medium, young
Wirehaired Terrier, Chihuahua
Friendswood, Texas
