Shepherd * American Bulldog * Spayed/Neutered * Male * 2 Years Old

Profile:

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HOW DID KNOX GET HERE?
Knox came to us through a rescue partner and was later adopted before being returned. He is now looking for a patient, experienced home that understands adolescent dogs and is ready to support him as he continues learning how to navigate the world.

PERSONALITY:
- Incredibly smart and quick to pick up new training skills, especially when food or toys are involved
- Affectionate and very cuddly once he has had a chance to burn off his energy and settle
- Playful, goofy, and full of personality - he LOVES toys, especially balls, stuffies, and a good game of fetch
- Highly food motivated and enthusiastic about training (Kongs, beef liver, dental chews, rollover treats are all high value for him)
- Enjoys being active, going on walks, and exploring the world with his people
- Really shines in training games and mental enrichment activities, where his clever brain gets to work
- Can be wonderfully engaged, interactive, and fun once he is regulated and in a good headspace
- Loves working closely with his handler and being part of daily life and activities
- Has a silly, affectionate side that comes out in full force when he feels safe and understood
- May get extra wiggly, mouthy, or jumpy when he is excited or unsure, especially during handling like harnessing or when something feels uncomfortable
- Can grab or mouth objects when he's overstimulated or unsure what to do with his energy, which is something he is still learning to channel appropriately
- Benefits from structure, decompression time, and routine to help him regulate big feelings
- May need support building confidence around being left alone, as he can become worried, vocal, or restless when separated from his people
- Can be reactive to other dogs on leash and will do best with slow, structured introductions and continued guidance
- Has some resource guarding tendencies around food and high-value items and will need thoughtful management to set him up for success
- Has a foundation of house training that will need consistency and reinforcement in his new home

WHAT TYPE OF HOME IS KNOX LOOKING FOR?
- Experienced dog home, ideally familiar with high-energy and adolescent behaviours
- A detached home with no shared entryways or common areas (no apartments or condos)
- A fenced yard would be beneficial but not required if exercise and enrichment needs are met
- Adults or families with children 16+ due to mouthing, jumping, and management needs
- A home committed to ongoing training
- Ideally a family with someone home frequently while he builds confidence and routine

Knox is taking medications called Gabapentin, Clomipramine, and Trazadone to help with his anxiety in the shelter, as well as Melatonin to help him get a restful sleep. He may or may not need these medications long term and any changes to his medications should be made in consultation with a vet. A starting supply will be sold at the time of adoption.

Knox is a bright, silly, affectionate, and highly engaging young dog who truly loves people once he trusts you. He's looking for a home that can appreciate both his brains and his big personality and help him turn all that potential into a wonderful lifelong companion. Apply to adopt Knox today!