FRUITLOOP
Portland, Maine
Fruitloop is an outgoing, very energetic, friendly Pit Bull/Am Bulldog mix who is approximately 12 months old. He weighs 60lbs - and is short, but stocky. He is very loving and thrives on human companionship. He can be mouthy when excited - so smaller children probably are not a good match for him.
Fruitloop is currently living peacefully in a foster home in Portland, Maine with three other dogs (2 male, 1 female).
Fruitloop also lives with 8 cats - he is respectful of them while someone is home to monitor him and play with him -- but is not trustworthy to be left loose alone with cats while his caretakers are out of the home. Fruitloop thinks that everything world is his toy and that includes the felines. He does not intend harm - but being a strong, young dog - does not yet understand the difference between a live animal and a dog toy. Fruitloop is crated currently when left alone - which works well for him and the cats:)
Fruitloop is considered a special needs pup as he is deaf. As a result, he needs a patient and kind caretaker who understands that Fruitloop needs training with visual commands such as sign language - and cannot be corrected with verbal commands or physical force.
It is obvious that Fruitloop has been corrected physically in the past - and not in a kind way - as he will duck if you raise your hand. This is a mistake that many people make with deaf dogs - and we want to make sure that Fruitloop's next home is one that will communicate with him in a positive manner.
Fruitloops foster mom has started sign language and reward based training with Fruitloop - he does know the sign commands for "sit" and "no." However, she works long hours - and Fruitloop really needs someone with more time to spend on training and consistency.
Fruitloop gets along well with other dogs and enjoys visiting the local dog park. He is not a good match for senior dogs as he is too high energy/playful and cannot hear when a dog is not interested in playing with him.
He loves to play fetch with giant rubber balls! He will bring the ball back but it sometimes take a few tries to get him to release it... If you give him a ball he will throw it for himself as well.
Fruitloop is crate trained and should be crated when left alone as he is still a puppy and likes to chew.
He needs a caretaker who will provide a good deal of exercise. he would make a great running and hiking companion!
Fruitloops ideal home would be:
-- One where he is not left alone for long periods of time
-- One with a fenced in yard
-- One with another young dog to play with.
It would be great to find someone who has deaf dog experience as well.
A basic obedience class will be an adoption requirement for Fruitloop and his new guardian.
This is a very sweet boy who has spent his puppiehood being bounced around without any consistency - He just wants someone to bond with who will make a lifetime commitment to him.
If you have love in your heart and room in your life for Fruitloop - please contact DDBMaine@yahoo.com for an adoption application.
