Ernie - Terrier and Mixed Breed Dog for Adoption in Alma, Wisconsin

Meet Ernie - The Soft, Snuggly Boy Learning That the World Isn't So Scary

Ernie is a sweet, slightly more reserved puppy who's discovering that the world can actually be a pretty wonderful place.

He's playful, goofy, curious, and adventurous, but when something is new, Ernie likes a little time to figure it out first. Give him patience and the opportunity to settle in, and you'll start seeing the happy, cuddly puppy underneath.

And even when he's feeling unsure?

That happy little tail keeps going.

Ernie Loves:

-Playing with other dogs
-Tug toys
-Chewing on bones
-Sniffing and exploring
-Car rides
-Playing with toys
-Cuddling
-Napping
-Treat puzzles and enrichment
-Watching TV with his people
-Being carried
-Zoomies
-Quiet relaxation
-Food and treats

Ernie's Favorite Thing:

Ernie is perfectly content settling down with a good bone and hanging out near his people.

He's soft, snuggly, and affectionate, but he isn't necessarily going to charge into every new situation without thinking about it first.

Ernie likes to observe, get comfortable, and learn that he's safe.

Once he does, his playful and happy-go-lucky personality starts coming through.

A Brave Little Guy in the Making

Ernie can be shy initially and may bark when he's unsure. New environments and loud noises can make him nervous, and he benefits from having time to decompress rather than being rushed.

But Ernie is already showing that he's capable of working through things.

His foster had been keeping the basement off-limits so Ernie and his brother, Bert, could be supervised more easily. Whenever the family went downstairs, the puppies were carried.

Apparently Ernie decided that arrangement needed further investigation.

He figured out the stairs all by himself.

Even better, when his foster asks him to stop, he listens. When asked to come back upstairs, he does.

Ernie was so successful at his independent basement exploration that the family now has a baby gate.

For a little puppy still learning about the world, those moments of curiosity and confidence are wonderful to see.

Still a Puppy

Ernie's potty-training introduction has started, and he's learning through a consistent routine.

He's also doing well in his crate with a structured schedule.

Formal training is just beginning. His foster has started working on Sit, although he's still learning the cue.

Leash walking hasn't been introduced yet.

Ernie can jump when excited, bark or vocalize, and attempt a little counter surfing. He may also want to greet people and dogs he sees.

These are skills that will need continued guidance as he grows rather than unusual concerns for a puppy his age.

Dogs, Cats & Kids

Ernie loves other dogs and is currently being fostered alongside his brother, Bert.

He also coexists well with cats and is good with kids.

Another friendly dog could certainly be a fun companion for him, especially since he enjoys canine play, but his biggest need is a patient family willing to continue building his confidence.

A Few Things to Know:

-Still a young puppy
-Likely medium energy as he matures
-Potty-training introduction has started
-Doing well in his crate with a structured routine
-Leash walking hasn't been introduced yet
-Beginning to work on Sit
-Shy and reserved initially
-May bark when unsure
-Can be nervous in unfamiliar environments
-Fearful of loud noises
-Benefits from decompression time
-Jumps when excited
-May counter surf
-Loves other dogs
-Coexists well with cats
-Good with kids
-Food motivated
-Toy motivated
-Loves attention
-Curious and adventurous
-Playful and goofy
-Loves cuddling
-Soft and snuggly
-Has a wonderfully happy tail

Great Activities for Ernie:

-Quiet neighborhood walks as his leash skills develop
-Car rides
-Playing with friendly dogs
-Tug
-Chewing bones
-Treat puzzles and enrichment
-Sniffing and exploring
-Puppy training
-One-on-one bonding
-Relaxing at home
-Watching TV with his people
-Low-stimulation outings
-Cuddling
-Zoomies followed by a good nap

Best Match:

-A calm or quieter household
-Patient adopters
-Families with children
-Someone willing to continue confidence building
-A home that won't rush him into unfamiliar situations
-Someone excited to continue puppy training
-A family that understands the importance of decompression
-Homes with other friendly dogs
-Homes with cats
-Someone looking for a puppy who can enjoy adventures but also settle down and relax

Three Words That Describe Ernie Best:

Soft
Snuggly
Loyal

Foster Location:

Winona, MN

Meet & Greet Availability:
Ernie's foster is willing to travel within approximately one hour of Winona, MN for approved adopters.

Ernie's history before coming into foster care is unknown, but right now he's busy learning that unfamiliar doesn't necessarily mean scary.

He's still a puppy, and there's plenty left for him to experience. Some things may take him a little longer than they would his more confident puppy friends-and that's okay.

What Ernie needs is someone willing to give him the time to look around, think things through, and discover things at his own pace.

Because underneath that initial hesitation is a playful, goofy, cuddly little guy with a happy tail and an increasingly adventurous spirit.

He even conquered the forbidden basement stairs.

Just don't tell him the baby gate won round two.

Ready to meet Ernie? Visit www.tailsofhopewi.org to submit an application.

Please note: Donations made through the SPONSOR ME tab on PetFinder do not go to Tails of Hope-WI and do not benefit the rescue. If you would like to support Ernie or Tails of Hope-WI, please donate directly through our website or official fundraising channels.

The mixed breed dogs, often referred to as mutts, are a diverse and unique group with a blend of different characteristics from various purebred dog breeds. These dogs come from a mixture of lineages, resulting in a wide range of sizes, coat types, and temperaments. While each mixed breed dog is distinct in its own right, they are known for their resilience, adaptability, and often have fewer health issues compared to purebred dogs due to their genetic diversity. Mixed breed dogs make wonderful companions for families looking for a loyal and one-of-a-kind pet.

The terrier is a spirited and intelligent dog breed known for its feisty personality and boundless energy. Terriers come in various sizes and coat types, but they all share a common heritage as fearless and determined hunters. These dogs are typically highly trainable, making them versatile companions for active individuals and families alike. With their loyalty and playful demeanor, terriers are beloved for their endless enthusiasm and affectionate nature.