Bossco

Bossco is an intelligent, affectionate ~3-year-old northern-breed mix with the personality and presence of the big working sled dogs, but in a slightly more compact package. He has a deep voice, a big bark, and takes his role as a little household watchdog seriously, happily keeping an eye on the neighborhood from the yard.

Bossco forms strong bonds with his people and is very much a “Velcro dog.” He loves being near his humans and will often follow you from room to room just to stay connected and see what you’re doing. One of his cutest habits is coming to check on you when you visit the bathroom, offering sweet kisses like he’s making sure everything is okay.

In the mornings, Bossco sometimes hops up gently on the bed to wish you good morning and start the day together.

He also has a playful and affectionate side. Bossco loves belly rubs and will happily stretch out on the end of the couch, often rolling onto his back with his feet in the air in total relaxation once he feels comfortable and settled.

Bossco enjoys small plush toys, especially Lamb Chop, which he likes to carry around and cuddle with.

At night he sleeps well in his crate with his bed and settles comfortably for the evening, though during the day he much prefers being around people and part of the household activity.

He enjoys spending time outdoors observing the world and watching people walk by. Bossco likes walks and outdoor adventures and is always ready to go exploring or “mush” alongside his person.

Bossco is very intelligent and highly food-motivated, which makes him fun to train and engage with. Because of his focus and eagerness to learn, he may even enjoy structured activities like agility or advanced training with the right handler.

Once he bonds with someone, Bossco is incredibly loyal, affectionate, and loves to cuddle after exercise or a walk.
Bossco thrives in a home with consistent human presence.

He forms strong attachments and does best in a low-departure household, such as:

• Work-from-home professionals
• Multi-adult households with staggered schedules
• Retired or semi-retired homes
• Active individuals who enjoy walking, jogging, or outdoor activities

Because Bossco is a smart and sensitive dog, he will do best with someone who appreciates intelligent working-breed personalities and is willing to continue his training and socialization.

He may also do well in a home with a confident, well-socialized female dog with slow introductions.

Bossco has worked with a trainer and responds very well to treat-based positive reinforcement.

He is eager to learn, highly food-motivated, and enjoys engaging mentally with his people.

He can be a little slow to warm up when meeting new visitors, but he generally relaxes once introductions begin with a short walk together. With patience and continued guidance, his sweet and affectionate personality shines through.

Bossco’s Favorite Things

• Walks and outdoor adventures
• Carrying around plush toys (especially Lamb Chop)
• Belly rubs and cuddling
• Being close to his people
• Watching the world from the yard
• Learning new things with treats

A low-departure household with consistent presence
• Continued positive training and socialization
• An active lifestyle with regular exercise
• Patient introductions to new people and dogs

With the right environment, structure, and companionship, Bossco has the potential to become an incredibly devoted and loving companion.

To meet Bossco, contact adopt@joyfulpets.com

Pet's Name: Bossco
Dog: Primary Breed: Other, not listed
Primary Breed (if not in list): Northern Breed
Birthdate (an estimate is okay): B
Age Category: Adult
Where did you get your pet?: King of Heart Foundation
Was this pet ever in a shelter, rescue, or foster program? If yes, please provide details.: Yes
Adoption Day (when did you adopt your pet? An estimate is okay.): August 29, 2025
Gender: Male
Size (at full-grown): Medium
Approximate adult weight in pounds (number only): 35
Primary Color: Calico/Multi/Tricolor
What are your pet's favorite toys and activities?: Small stuffed animals, Walks, jogging, sniffing, exploring, couch time
Has your dog received any formal obedience training?: Yes
What commands does your dog know?: Sit, shake, high five
How does your dog react to being left alone for short periods?: Bark/ howl / searches for you
Are there any specific triggers that cause your dog anxiety or stress?: Being alone, other dogs
Is there a daily routine that works well for your dog (feeding, walking, sleep)?: Feeding upon waking 5-6am, walk mid morning, nap, dinner 5-6pm, evening walk bed by 9/930pm
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?: None known so far outside of severe separation anxiety
Has your dog ever been diagnosed with or treated for any of the following? (Please check all that apply, even if your dog has fully recovered. This helps us provide the best support for future families.):
Allergies (environmental or food-related)
Anaplasmosis (tick-borne)
Anxiety Issues
Arthritis or Joint Pain
Canine Distemper
Chronic Ear Infections
Dental Disease
Ehrlichiosis (tick-borne)
Heartworm
Influenza
Kennel Cough
Leptospirosis
Lipomas, Cysts, or Other Lumps/Bumps
Lyme Disease
Parvovirus
Seizures
Skin Conditions
Vaccine Reactions
Other
Has your dog ever shown any challenging behaviors, such as biting a person or another pet? If so, please share some context.: No bites, just growl and nose touch as a warning to others he doesn’t know
How often does your dog require grooming (e.g., bathing, brushing, trimming)? : I’ve only been able to bathe him once, he is not comfortable with grooming yet. He just started allowing to be gently brushed
Does your dog have a dental care routine (e.g., brushing, chews, professional cleanings)?: He allows finger dental wipes weekly
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?: Selective: Gets along with some dogs but not others.
How is your dog with cats?: Not sure: Haven't had enough interaction to determine.
What's the most endearing thing about your dog?: He is a very sweet little guy who needs time and patience to continue building confidence
What criteria are important to you when considering an adoptive family or home for your pet?: Active dog walkers, Patience, loving, open to being watched and followed at allgive him space to adapt at his pace
Is there anything else you'd like your pet's new family to know?: He needs full time presence and socialization
Why are you rehoming your pet (primary reason)?: Pet Behavior
Details about rehoming reason (if needed): I am single and unfortunately not able to leave Bossco alone, I cannot financially sustain a full time dogsitter any longer awaiting improvement
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?: Three months
Who is your veterinarian?: Scott Jacobs Fletcher hills animal hospital La mesa, CA
What do you feed your pet, and does he/she have any feeding quirks or preferences?: Blue buffalo chicken and brown rice dry food
Do you currently have pet insurance?: No
Would you consider a long-distance adoption?:
Yes
No
Maybe
City, State: La Mesa, CA
Zip Code: 91942
How did you hear about us?: Google Search
Service Level: Tailored Placement: Full Support for Behavioral or Medical Needs