Viking *Arriving 11/6* D12952 - Shepherd and Labrador Retriever Dog for Adoption

Hi, I'm Viking!

I'm a playful, energetic puppy who's always ready for fun, adventure, and, most importantly, MEALTIME! I love being around people, especially kids of all ages, and I get along great with other dogs. I've also done well around cats and rabbits, so I have lots of potential to fit right into a busy, loving home.

I can be a little nervous or stand-offish when meeting new people, but give me a couple of minutes and I'll start warming up. Once I'm comfortable, my fun personality really shines! I'm a confident, playful guy with moderate puppy energy, so I'd love a family who can keep me active and help me burn off some of that puppy excitement.

I have the cutest little quirk, too! When my people come home, I spin in circles super fast and do my very own happy dance. I just can't contain my excitement! I can be a little vocal when I'm in my kennel, when I want to play, or when I hear other dogs barking. I'm still working on potty training and will need a patient family to help me learn leash walking, crate training, and basic obedience.

I'm still just a puppy, and I have so much to learn about the world. With consistency, patience, and plenty of love, I know I can grow into an amazing companion. I'm looking for a family who will include me in their adventures, help me build confidence, and give me lots of opportunities to play and explore.
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Viking is from Texas. They arrive in Minnesota on 11/6/2026 and will need to be picked up from the Ruff Start Rescue office in Princeton, MN between the hours of 8:30am and 11:00am. Please plan for their arrival accordingly as we cannot accommodate pickups outside of this time frame. Since they haven't arrived yet, they are available exclusively through Ruff Start's Foster to Adopt (FTA) Program. Visit our Foster to Adopt Program page to learn more. Once they get to Minnesota, they might require further veterinary care. Ruff Start's veterinary suite is located in Princeton, MN, and, as the foster, you will be required to transport your dog to and from these vetting appointments.
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*Rescue puppies are notorious for losing their birth certificates before entering our rescue. We cannot guarantee the breed or size they will be full grown.*

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.

Our vision is simple: We strive for a world where every companion animal has a safe and loving forever home...