Buddy 48

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Original:  “Toys are Buddy’s passion, particularly stuffed animals that he carries around the house and even takes to bed.”

Buddy’s journey into MAESSR began when his loving Pennsylvania owner became ill and was hospitalized, making it impossible for him to care for Buddy.   For a time, Buddy lived with a friend of his owner, sharing the home with two children, ages 9 and 12, and another small-sized dog. Though his circumstances changed, Buddy’s friendly and playful nature have remained constant and he’s now looking for a forever home that can provide the companionship he craves.

Buddy is a classic Velcro Springer—highly affectionate and happiest when following his foster parents around the house. He loves to play and cuddle, making sure to always be where the people are. Buddy is housetrained, though he doesn’t have a clear signal when he needs to go out. He’s had no accidents in the house when kept on regular potty breaks. When left alone at home, Buddy stays in his crate or the kitchen, but often whines and paws at his crate or the gate, signaling his dislike of being separated. His foster family is gently teaching him to be more comfortable on his own, including having Buddy wait patiently outside the restroom while it is in use! At night, Buddy sleeps on the floor or in his dog bed in the bedroom, always preferring to be close to his people.

True to his nature, Buddy is a cuddler who loves being close and would be perfectly content on his person’s lap all day. While he’s used to being on couches and beds, he’s making great progress with new training to keep him off the furniture, often choosing to sit at his foster parent’s feet with his head on their knees. Buddy isn’t particularly interested in trash and hasn’t chewed inappropriately, but he has been known to counter-surf when he spotted something irresistible within reach. He can also become excited and jump up on people, a habit his foster parents are working to break.

Buddy is re-learning basic commands like “sit” and “stay” and is especially patient when being leashed, unleashed, or having his muddy paws cleaned. He walks well on a leash and likes to stay close to his walker, although he can get excited and pull when he sees squirrels or other dogs. His foster parents are gradually helping him improve his heeling skills. At the dog park, Buddy loves to run but tends to stay near people rather than other dogs. He recently walked calmly through a farmers’ market, enjoying attention and pets without becoming overwhelmed. In the car, this love is initially excited and may try to hop into the front seat, but he soon settles down and rides quietly in the back seat.              

Toys are Buddy’s passion, particularly stuffed animals that he carries around the house and even takes to bed. While he’s not very food-motivated, high-value treats help during training. Buddy shows no signs of food or toy aggression. Slightly overweight, he’s been enjoying long walks to help him shed a few pounds. He has a medium energy level: ready to run and play for a while, then content to nap for hours afterward.

Buddy’s grooming experiences have been smooth—he stands patiently during baths and behaved well during his vet visit, sticking close to his foster parent when feeling anxious. He cooperated with ear cleaning and nail trimming even when taken into a separate room by the vet staff. His gentle and trusting nature shines through, even in these potentially stressful situations.

Buddy needs a loving home with someone who’s home during the day and can work on building his confidence when alone. His ideal family will understand his strong desire to be near his people, offering him the closeness and reassurance he needs to thrive. With his affectionate heart and playful spirit, Buddy promises to be a devoted companion to the right home.