Dozer - German Shepherd/Pit
Dozer has lived in our home since he was a puppy. He does have some separation anxiety, so we typically keep him in a crate when no one is home. Fully potty trained. Is used to being around kids (from newborns thru teenagers). However, he has been pushed past his limit with younger children and now has a very short temper with younger kids. We have a 1 year old daughter, and his behavior recently has caused us to make the decision that he needs a new home. He has snapped (not bitten) at our daughter, and carelessly plowed into her when he knows she's nearby, causing her to fall and hit her head. He's very protective, but loves playing with other dogs at the dog park. He's familiar with the phrases, "Want to go for a ride?", "Want to go outside/potty?", and "Are you hungry?" He gets very excited to hear anyone say that. He is on the larger side of "medium". Approximately 55lbs of pure muscle. He is a mixed breed (german shepherd/pit).
Pet's Name:
Dozer
Dog: Primary Breed:
German Shepherd Dog
Birthdate, estimate is okay:
10/01/2019
Age Category:
Adult
Where did you get your pet?:
Friend
Adoption Day, when did you adopt your pet? An estimate is okay.:
12/01/2019
Gender:
Male
Size (at full grown):
Large
Weight (in pounds) at full-grown size. Example: 35:
55
Primary Color:
Tan (Mostly)
What are your pet's favorite toys and activities?:
Playing with other dogs at the dog park. Not very toy motivated, but does enjoy chewing bones.
Has your dog received any formal obedience training?:
No
What commands does your dog know?:
Sit, stay, want to go potty (walks to the door), are you hungry (goes to wait for you to put his food down)
Has your dog ever exhibited any challenging behaviors, such as biting a person or another pet? If so, could you please share some details about the situation?:
Has separation anxiety (been on medication before, but can't really afford it, so he is crated when left alone). Snaps at younger children, typically if they're being rowdy near him, but has just for them being nearby. Hasn't actually bit anyone. Careless around my 1 year old (plows into her when he knows she's in the floor playing, causing her to fall and hit her head).
How does your dog react to being left alone for short periods?:
Barks when left alone, especially if he knows you're still outside. But will calm down after a few minutes (been verified by neighbor).
Are there any specific triggers that cause your dog anxiety or stress?:
Hyper children and being left alone.
Is there a particular routine that works best for your dog in terms of feeding, walking, and sleep?:
Typically fed at night, then taken for last potty break about 30 minutes later. Also try to take him to the dog park to get out extra energy every 1-2 weeks.
Medical History and Care:
Vaccinations up to date
Spayed or Neutered
House/Litter-Trained
Microchipped
Special Diet
Special Needs
Never Vetted
Unknown
Does your pet have any history of health issues or medical conditions that potential adopters should be aware of?:
Separation anxiety (tears stuff up and will eat thru the door if not crated)
Personality:
Playful
Constant Companion
High Energy
Medium Energy
Low Energy
Stubborn
Timid
Needs Training
Friendly to Strangers
Good with Other Dogs
Good with Young Children
Good with Cats
Bonded Pair
Requires A Fenced Yard
Crate Trained
Purebred
How is your dog with other dogs?:
Friendly: Generally gets along well with other dogs.
How is your dog with cats?:
Not sure: Haven't had enough interaction to determine.
What's the most endearing thing about your dog?:
Loves to cuddle. Will give hugs if you tap your chest and say "up" or "hug"
What criteria are important to you when considering an adoptive family or home for your pet?:
Would like to find him someone with a fenced in yard, but not mandatory. He does need someone that doesn't mind barking (barks at every car door closing, knock at the door, or loud thump)
Is there anything else you'd like your pet's new family to know?:
Very protective. Once he makes a bond with you, he will protect you at all costs.
Why are you rehoming your pet (primary reason)?:
Pet Behavior
Rehoming reason details (if necessary):
We're concerned for our daughter's safety. I fear he may one day bite her (without realizing what is intention was), plus with him plowing into her, we're just afraid he's going to hurt her.
If applicable, do you have the legal right or necessary permission from the breeder or rescue organization to rehome this pet? :
Not Applicable
Yes
How long will you be able to keep your pet before you may need to consider surrendering him or her to a rescue?:
Two months
Who is your veterinarian?:
Shallowford Animal Hospital
What do you feed your pet?:
Purina One dry food (he prefers the puppy version) mixed with bone broth or canned food/pouches
Do you have pet insurance for your pet? :
No
Would you consider a long distance adoption?:
Yes
No
Maybe
City, State:
Chattanooga, TN
Zip Code:
37421
How did you hear about us?:
Rescue/Shelter
Service Level:
No-Cost Option: Basic Listing Service