Hopper is a small chihuahua mix with a big personality and an even bigger heart. He is affectionate, loyal, and happiest when he’s close to his person. He loves cozy spots, naps under blankets, and being near his humans.
Hopper does best in a calm, structured environment where he can feel secure and confident. Once he bonds with you, he is incredibly loving and devoted. He enjoys quiet companionship, walks, and relaxing at home.
Because of his size and sensitive nature, Hopper would thrive in a home with:
Adults or older children who understand dog boundaries
A low-stress household
Someone who is patient and willing to continue building his confidence
Hopper may take a little time to warm up to new people or situations, but with consistency and reassurance, he blossoms into a wonderful companion. He is not a “drop-everything social” dog — he’s a best-friend, one-person (or couple) kind of dog.
This decision comes from wanting the absolute best life for Hopper, where he can feel safe, understood, and truly at home. We are committed to finding him a responsible, loving adopter who will give him the stability and care he deserves.
If you’re looking for a loyal little sidekick who will love you deeply and appreciate a peaceful home, Hopper could be the perfect match.
Pet's Name:
Hopper
Dog: Primary Breed:
Other, not listed
Primary Breed (if not in list):
Chihahua Mix
Birthdate (an estimate is okay):
July 14 2019
Age Category:
Adult
Where did you get your pet?:
Sterling Animal Shelter
Was this pet ever in a shelter, rescue, or foster program? If yes, please provide details.:
Shelter
Adoption Day (when did you adopt your pet? An estimate is okay.):
09/13/2019
Gender:
Male
Size (at full-grown):
Small
Approximate adult weight in pounds (number only):
18
Primary Color:
Brown
What are your pet's favorite toys and activities?:
stuff animals and running
What commands does your dog know?:
Sit, Out, Bad Boy
How does your dog react to being left alone for short periods?:
Hopper tolerates being left alone for short/long periods and usually rests until his people return.
Are there any specific triggers that cause your dog anxiety or stress?:
Hopper can become stressed if his space isn’t respected around food or when he is resting. He does best when given space during meals and when allowed to wake up on his own rather than being startled. Clear boundaries, supervision, and a calm environment help him feel secure and relaxed.
Is there a daily routine that works well for your dog (feeding, walking, sleep)?:
Hopper is flexible with his daily routine and does not need strict schedules. Calm meals, regular walks, and uninterrupted rest work well for him.
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 health issue that I am aware of.
Additional notes about your dog’s health history::
He has been pretty healthy as long as I can remember
Has your dog ever shown any challenging behaviors, such as biting a person or another pet? If so, please share some context.:
Yes. Hopper has shown resource guarding behavior around food. There was one incident where he bit a young child who approached him while he was eating. This highlighted the need for clear boundaries around food and supervision, especially with children. Hopper does best when fed in a quiet, separate space and when his resting and eating areas are respected. With structure, management, and an appropriate home environment, this behavior is avoidable.
How often does your dog require grooming (e.g., bathing, brushing, trimming)? :
He has no issue taking a bath, but you are not able to brush his teeth, or trim his nails because he does not allow you and if you try he can bite.
Does your dog have a dental care routine (e.g., brushing, chews, professional cleanings)?:
No.
Personality:
Playful
Constant Companion
High Energy
Medium Energy
Low Energy
Timid
Friendly to Strangers
Good with Other Dogs
Good with Cats
Good with Young Children
Bonded Pair
Purebred
Crate Trained
Comes When Called
Needs Training
Likes Car Rides
Likes to Swim
Requires A Fenced Yard
Jumps Fences
Growls at Strangers
Is Afraid of Storms
Digs
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?:
The most endearing thing about Hopper is how deeply he bonds with his person. Once he trusts you, he wants nothing more than to be close — curled up beside you, following you from room to room, or tucked under a blanket just to be near.
What criteria are important to you when considering an adoptive family or home for your pet?:
The most important criteria for Hopper’s adoptive home is a calm, structured environment without infants or young children. He does best with adults or older children who understand dog boundaries, particularly around food. An adopter with experience with small dogs or resource guarding behaviors — or someone willing to continue training and management — would be ideal. Hopper should be fed in a quiet, separate space and given consistency and routine. Above all, we are looking for a patient, responsible home that will treat Hopper as a valued family member and provide him with the understanding and structure he needs to thrive safely.
Is there anything else you'd like your pet's new family to know?:
Hopper is a loving dog who forms deep bonds with his people. He does need clear boundaries around food and does best when given space during meals. With structure, routine, and understanding, he is a wonderful companion. This decision was made out of love and concern for everyone’s safety, and our goal is to find Hopper a home that truly fits his needs.
Why are you rehoming your pet (primary reason)?:
Baby/Child Safety
Details about rehoming reason (if needed):
He unfortunately bit my daughter
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?:
Spencer Vet
What do you feed your pet, and does he/she have any feeding quirks or preferences?:
blue buffalo; no preference honestly he will eat anything
Do you currently have pet insurance?:
No
Would you consider a long-distance adoption?:
Yes
No
Maybe
City, State:
Spencer, MA
Zip Code:
01562
How did you hear about us?:
Google Search
Service Level:
Assistance Needed: Help Me Choose