Spaniel Dogs Available for Adoption in Chelsea, Michigan

Socialization: We do not have other dogs in our home, but Cosmos did well with other dogs in Greece, although he's not interested in playing with other dogs. At the vet's office, he showed a friendly interest, wagging his tail, at a huge German Shepherd but they did not interact close-up. We have not had visitors since he's arrived from Greece, but based on his behaviors in Greece, he's a bit timid with new people intially but warms up quickly. He was very well behaved at the vet's office and they all loved him. He has a tendency to jump up, so he might not be good with small children who could get knocked over. Cosmos has failed to impress our 16 yo cat; she was not amused at his enthusiasm as he attempted to chase her. He was not aggressive but very excited and our cat has chosen to nap in her cradle in a room "off-limits" to Cosmos.

Training: Cosmos only had two accidents in the house when we first got him; his "I want to come out of the hall and be with YOU" barking and jumping behavior is very close to the "I have to go potty NOW" behavior. He started to chew on his wicker bedand has shown some interest in counter surfing, but he does stop when corrected. He knows the Sit command but Stay is a work in progress. We have never crated our dogs (they stay in a gated off hallway) but we brought him home in a crate and he rode well (no whining or barking). He is a bit of an escape artist, so people in his home will need to be careful opening doors to ensure he does not get out while the door is opened.

Activity requirements: Cosmos is a high-energy boy and very strong for a small dog. We bought a harness and use that and a slip-collar when we go outside. He pulls on the harness and the slip-collar does not discourage pulling so we do not yet go on extended walks. His main exercise is to chase his ball around the house at breakneck speed. We have not yet tried to exercise him off leash in the round pen; mud season is here, but given his energy levels and his love of chasing rubber balls, he would benefit from a safely fenced area for exercise.

Fence requirements: Cosmos will need a fully, securely fenced area in the backyard where he can safely exercise and burn off his energy and have room to chase a ball. He is an escape artist, so he will need supervision in the fenced area and a secure fence where there are no spaces for him to squeeze through or an opportunity for him to climb over the fence. If unsupervised, he would very likely climb a chainlink fence, thus a privacy fence is preferred for him. He has shown interest in digging when we have been on potty-walks, so he could probably dig under a fence if left unsupervised in the backyard. An invisible fence is not an option for Cosmos and a dog park is not a good option for him due to him being an escape artist.

Personality: Cosmos wants to be with his people, although he realizes that there are times when he needs to give his humans some space. He has a happy personality and likes to cuddle. He loves to play with his rubber ball but has not grasped the concept of bringing ball back to person to toss again. He will bring it close, drop it, but snatch it up if you make a motion towards it. The first day he was here, he discovered the basket of dog toys and he promptly took one at a time and trotted off to his area to deposit them there.

Health history: Cosmos is neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and on monthly heartworm prevention. He was diagnosed with infections in both ears and medicine was put in both ears by our vet that will stay there for 30 days and then he will be rechecked. He will be ready to go to his forever home, once his ear infections are resolved. His next leishmaniasis test is due in December 2026.

This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80.

Foster comments: Cosmos is a sweet dog with the most expressive eyes. There is not a mean bone in his body. He has been left in the dog hall for up to 3 hours when we have had to go out and has not done any damage. Ideally, he would not be left alone for long periods of time on a daily basis, since he really wants to be with people. Another non-aggressive dog in the home might provide reassurance for him. He is very "bird-conscious" and excitable when he sees or hears them. He needs a home with patient, loving humans who will understand that he has been through a lot of changes in his relatively short life and who can appreciate the soul within that is looking for his forever home.

Foster location: Galway, NY

Transport note: We are able to arrange volunteer transport to get dogs from their foster home to their adopter as long as the adopter and the foster are within a 1,000 mile radius of each other and the adopter is located in the USA. If the adopter is more than 1,000 miles from the foster home, adoption would only be possible if the adopter is willing to drive the distance beyond the 1,000-mile transport limit. Long distance adoptions may also be possible if the adopter is willing to pay for a flight for getting their dog from the foster home to their location if the foster feels this is an appropriate arrangement for the specific dog. Canadian adopters would have to drive into the USA to pick up their dog, as we do not transport outside of the USA.

The Spaniel is a versatile and affectionate dog breed known for its friendly demeanor, intelligence, and exceptional hunting skills. With origins dating back to the 14th century, Spaniels come in various types such as the Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These dogs excel in both the field and as loving family companions, showcasing their adaptability, loyalty, and energetic nature. Spaniels require regular exercise and grooming to maintain their silky coats and overall well-being, making them popular choices for active individuals and families seeking a devoted canine friend.