Baller - Terrier Dog for Adoption in Wheeling, Illinois

Baller is at our shelter. Please submit an application from our website or just come in to meet him during open hours!

Scroll through his pictures to see his cute videos!

Baller is an Alabama-bred cutie who along with his sisters, Treble and Chess, has found himself here at Heartland. His sisters have both found their forever homes, and now it's Baller's turn!

Baller is a total sweetheart, and is at an age where his personality is really setting in. He is at his core a dog who seems to love everyone and everything. People? Wonderful. Dogs? AMAZING. Playgroup? The best thing that has ever happened. He is going to be such a sweet-natured, well-adjusted young man! He is remarkably well-behaved and quiet-we honestly don't think we've heard him make a peep in the kennel!

His absolute superpower, though, is his full-body wiggle. The second Baller meets another dog, his entire body starts moving like he's trying to communicate exclusively through interpretive dance. And somehow, it works. Even some of the more serious, cranky dogs who aren't particularly interested in making friends with young bucks like Baller seem to look at him and think, "Okay, fine. You're adorable."

Baller is still getting used to life in the city. He grew up in a rural setting with his foster mom, several other dogs, and lots of land, so leash walks weren't really part of his routine. When he first arrived, he had absolutely no idea what we were asking him to do with that strange thing attached to him!

But Baller is a very good student, and he has improved SO much, SO quickly. We think part of the reason is that he has figured out that leash = going outside = FUN! And when the leash comes out, Baller knows that playgroup might be next. His favorite place in the world is the yard, where he can run, play, make friends, and show off that magnificent wiggle.

Baller is also a bit of a scaredy-cat. New things can make him nervous, and when you first meet him, he may be a little shy. But we happen to think this makes him even more adorable-and we are very happy to baby him.

Here's our advice for meeting Baller: sit down, get on his level, and start the baby talk. The higher-pitched your voice, the better. Give him a minute to decide you're okay, and you'll soon see those full-body wiggles, from tip to tail, as he shimmies closer and closer to you!

Baller is brave, even when he's nervous. He's learning new things every day, and he has already come such a long way in a short amount of time. He's a really, really good boy-and we have a feeling he's going to absolutely melt someone's heart the way he has melted ours.

Come meet our happy Baller and see if you can resist those wiggles. We certainly haven't been able to!

Baller's adoption fee is $300. This animal is neutered, up to date on core vaccines, and Heartworm negative.

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.

Heartland Animal Shelter is a no-kill shelter and a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization.  We depend on your donations in order to...