Doodle is sweet and tender boy that is learning about life outside the puppy mill. He came to us a few months ago very shut down and practically frozen with fear... but has started to blossom into a happy boy that loves to play and will even come occasionally for pets. For being only a year old, the fact that he has never felt safe or loved until now has taken a toll on him. Doodle is never aggressive, but it takes a while to warm up to strangers and is still a work in progress. He has come so far though and the fear is melting away as he learns he is safe and loved. This boy will need a patient person who is also confident and will push him out of his comfort zone from time to time. Just this week, he has learned it is fun to be outside and that he should potty there too. He will go on puppy pads but getting him outside to potty every time is our goal. In new situations, he may try to run and hide which is why a securely fenced in yard is a must for him though we do feel in time he could learn to walk well on a leash. He does allow people to pick him up like a lamb and with him only being 26 pounds, it is possible to carry him where you want him to go but he likes to follow his person as well. This beautiful boy bonds with those he trusts and likes to be near them. He is also amazing in his crate and finds it to be his safe place. He is a fun boy that likes to collect things. He will pull every dog toy possible into his crate so he knows exactly where they are when we wants to play with them. He is a good listener and is quickly learning the word "no". Doodle comes alive when around other dogs. He loves to play with them and follow them around. That is why another confident dog in the house is a requirement for him so he can learn how to be a dog from a dog that wants to be his pal. We have also found he does well with cats too. Though Doodle is the classic definition of a puppy mill survivor, he enjoys to be with his person and we feel he will bond with his new family in time as well. Puppy mill survivor experience is a plus, but not required. Before applying for Doodle, PLEASE do your research on puppy mill dogs. It is quite likely he will never be a "normal" dog and always have some fear of noises, fast movements, new places, and people.
If you think Doodle might be the Mini Poodle/Golden Retriever mix you have been looking for, you may apply for him at www.pawpatroldayton.com/adopt. He is vaccinated, neutered, heartworm negative, and microchipped. His adoption fee is $325.
Note: Doodle's adopter must have a fenced yard and at least one other confident dog in the home to help him continue learning life is awesome! All of our animals are vaccinated, micro-chipped and spayed/neutered before being adopted.
