Entered: 02/13/2011
Status: Adopted
Age: 4
Color: Liver/White
Weight:
Gender: Altered Male
Location: Washington, DC
Health: UTD, HW-, good in all areas
Temperament: Good with adults, good with kids of all ages, good with most other dogs, will chase cats
Original:
Duke is a very cute Springer boy who was relinquished to MAESSR after having several scuffles with another male dog in their Pennsylvania home. Neither dog was neutered, and they were both interested in a resident intact female. Duke lived peacefully with several other dogs and cats, but could not come to terms with this particular male. He has gotten along well with his new canine foster brother and has not shown any aggression or guarding of food or toys since entering foster care – good boy, Duke!
Housebroken, and with good house manners overall, Duke has made no attempts to get on the furniture in his foster home, even though he was previously allowed to do so. He hasn’t trash-picked and he quickly responds to corrections if he’s caught counter-surfing. Duke is crate-trained, although he would much prefer not to be crated. Because he has a mild case of separation anxiety, being in his crate when his foster family is out ensures his safety.
This handsome guy was very well-behaved for his bath and trim, but was a little resistant to having his nails done. He tends to be nervous in the car at first, but settles after about 20 minutes. He prefers to ride shotgun. So far Duke hasn’t shown much interest in toys or bones, but he does enjoy playing with the other dog at his foster home. He knows the commands sit, off, up, and stay although he is too excitable to hold that position for long! Duke’s leash manners need some work, so he is currently walked using a Gentle Leader head collar.
Duke is a high energy Springer with a perfect weight at 49 pounds. True to his nature, he easily flushes out birds and game. If trained, he could even make a good hunting partner. His foster mom suspects that if he were properly acclimated to their sound, he would not be gun-shy. In addition, he was previously allowed to run in an open field and was very good about staying close. Although this hasn’t yet been repeated in foster care, as there is no safe area for him to run off-lead, he would likely be fine as he is very responsive to his people.
An ideal forever home for Duke would include another dog, preferably a female or a submissive male. He would probably be unhappy as an only dog as he has never been without canine companionship. He has also lived with children and would be a fine addition to a household with older, active kids that would enjoy his vigor for life. Some open space to run free would complete the picture for this dynamic boy. Do you have what it takes to make Duke’s dreams come true?