Sonny

Meet Sonny, a cheerful and loving five-year-old terrier mix from San Diego, CA, whose cream-colored coat and lively spirit are as sunny as his name suggests! Weighing in at a perfectly huggable 35 pounds, Sonny is the kind of pup who thrives on connection, companionship, and just the right amount of play.

Sonny is a bright, affectionate boy who adores snuggling, playing tug, and showing off his signature bounce. He’s food- and treat-motivated, which makes training through repetition and positive reinforcement a great path for continuing to help him thrive. While he hasn’t had formal obedience training, he responds to his name and whistles — and his eagerness to please makes him a quick study in the right hands.

Though sensitive to loud noises and sudden commotion, Sonny shines in a calm, structured home. He’s done well with other dogs after a proper introduction and enjoys doggie play once he feels comfortable. However, cats are a definite no-go for him. He needs a pet parent who can respect his boundaries and provide a peaceful environment — ideally without infants or toddlers, though he does well with older children who understand how to interact gently with animals.

Sonny has had a few situations where he’s become overwhelmed and reactive, causing him to bite as a result. This happens in high-stress or noisy environments. Because of this, he’s looking for a compassionate, dog-experienced family willing to give him the time and space he needs to settle in, build trust, and continue his progress with training. Once he warms up to someone — and it doesn’t take long with a few scratches and some toy time — his loving personality truly blossoms!

He’s house-trained, neutered, microchipped, and up to date on all vaccinations. He enjoys daily walks, snuggles in bed at night, and the comforting rhythm of a familiar routine. Grooming needs are simple — a monthly bath and a bit of brushing keep his coat soft and clean.

To learn more about adopting Sonny, reach out today — he’s ready to bring loyalty, love, and a touch of silly terrier charm to his next family’s life!

Pet's Name: Sonny
Dog: Primary Breed: Other, not listed
Primary Breed (if not in list): Terrier
Birthdate, estimate is okay: 2020
Age Category: Adult
Where did you get your pet?: Petfinder
Adoption Day, when did you adopt your pet? An estimate is okay.: 2022
Gender: Male
Size (at full grown): Medium
Weight (in pounds) at full-grown size.: 35
Primary Color: Cream
What are your pet's favorite toys and activities?: Running, snuggling, pets, jumping, and playing with a tug rope
Has your dog received any formal obedience training?: Not Sure
What commands does your dog know?: He knows how to respond to his name and whistles.
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?: He has bitten 3 people and 1 dog. These were situations that escalated too far because he is very sensitive to loud noises and commotion, so he is prone to get overwhelmed.
How does your dog react to being left alone for short periods?: He is ok with short periods of time.
Are there any specific triggers that cause your dog anxiety or stress?: Loud noises and delivery people
Is there a particular routine that works best for your dog in terms of feeding, walking, and sleep?: Walking once or twice a day, feeding twice a day (once in the morning/once in the evening), sleeps at night (likes to be in the bed with owners)
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?: No
How often does your dog require grooming (e.g., bathing, brushing, trimming)? : Once a month
Does your dog have any dental care routines (e.g., brushing, chews, professional cleanings)? : No
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?: Aggressive: Does not get along with cats and may show aggressive behavior.
What's the most endearing thing about your dog?: He is very loving.
What criteria are important to you when considering an adoptive family or home for your pet?: No infants or toddlers
Is there anything else you'd like your pet's new family to know?: Initially scared towards new people until they pet and show affection to them
Why are you rehoming your pet (primary reason)?: Other, Not in List
Rehoming reason details (if necessary): New baby on the way and toddler in the house. Sonny gets excited and needs to be watched around very small children.
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 weeks
Who is your veterinarian?: Santee Pet Hospital
What do you feed your pet, and does he/she have any feeding quirks or preferences?: He is fed a can of Whole Hearted Turkey Recipe per day. Along with a greenie per day for his teeth.
Do you have pet insurance for your pet? : No
Would you consider a long distance adoption?:
Yes
No
Maybe
City, State: San Diego, CA
Zip Code: 92120
How did you hear about us?: Rescue/Shelter
Service Level: No-Cost Option: Basic Listing Service
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