Gandalf

🌟 Meet Gandalf!

🐾 ABOUT THIS ANIMAL:

With his gorgeous tricolor coat, one brown eye and one blue, Gandalf certainly looks like a dog with a little magic in him. But this sweet boy isn’t the type of wizard who charges fearlessly into every adventure, Gandalf likes to study the situation first.

Gandalf is hesitant but curious, and that’s an important distinction. When something is unfamiliar, his first instinct is often to hang back, sniff, and observe. Move too quickly and he may back away, but give him a little time (and some treats!) and you’ll start to see him make the decision to come closer on his own. Treat-and-retreat games have been a great way to help him realize that new people can mean good things.

And once Gandalf feels comfortable? The goofy comes out! Outside of his kennel, he loves toys, enjoys exploring, and shows a much sillier side of himself than you might expect from his initially reserved demeanor.

Gandalf has also met children around 8 years old and has done well with them. On walks, he’s been good on leash and enjoys investigating his surroundings. He can be startled by loud noises or unexpected things, one suspicious Dalmatian statue on the trail even earned itself a bark! A patient person who lets him investigate the world without rushing him will help this sweet guy continue building confidence.

🐕 HOW AM I WITH DOGS:

I’m still figuring out doggy socializing! I can initially be a little awkward and unsure when another dog approaches, sometimes standing stiffly while I decide what I’m supposed to do.

I’ve been more comfortable with medium-energy dogs who don’t overwhelm me. Very energetic play or being chased can scare me, and I’m not shy about making some dramatic noises when that happens! With a more compatible playmate and enough time to figure things out, I’ve started becoming more comfortable.

🐱 HOW AM I WITH CATS:

Unknown, just ask my friends at FOHA about a cat test.

👶 HOW AM I WITH KIDS:

I’ve met children around 8 years old and did well with them! Because I can be shy when people move too quickly, I’d appreciate kids who can give me a moment to sniff, observe, and approach when I’m ready.

🎓 I KNOW THE FOLLOWING COMMANDS:

I’m still showing everyone what I know. Right now, we’re focusing on building my confidence and helping me learn that unfamiliar people, places, sounds, and objects don’t have to be scary. Treats are a great way to help me warm up!

🏠 MY HOUSEBREAKING AND/OR CRATING:

My full housebreaking and crating history is unknown at this time.

💖 THINGS I LIKE:

Toys • Treats • Exploring • Sniffing • Walks • Having time to observe • Medium-energy canine friends • Showing off my goofy side once I’m comfortable

⚠️ THINGS I’M WORKING ON:

Feeling more confident around new people and situations • Loud or unexpected noises • Very energetic dogs • Being comfortable with handling before I’ve had a chance to get to know you

Gandalf isn’t a dog who will necessarily hand you his whole heart in the first thirty seconds, and that’s part of what makes earning his trust so special. Give him the chance to observe, a pocketful of treats, and the freedom to approach on his own, and you’ll start discovering the playful, goofy boy hiding underneath that shy exterior.

After all, even the greatest adventures sometimes begin with one cautious step out the door.

📋 FOHA ADOPTION POLICIES AND PROCESS:
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💰 ADOPTION FEE INCLUDES:

Spay/neuter, vaccines (rabies, distemper & Bordetella), 1-month access to Petcademy for training and behavior support, slip lead leash, 1 bag starter food, 1 month flea/tick & heartworm preventatives, diagnostic testing, and additional medical procedures as recommended by our vet.