Jake was an owner surrender to a high kill shelter in Alabama because he would not hunt. He was more interested in playing. He’s a large Orange Belton boy, neutered and about 4 1/2 years old, and one of the few we have an exact DOB on. His birthday is 1/4/2005. He is up to date on his shots, and has tested heartworm free. He’s a bit larger boned then average and tall, but very lean at 49 lbs. He is a high-energy boy and would be ideal for someone who is active. A hard fence is best to keep this boy safe.

He was moved to a foster home in middle Tennessee, but had issues with an older male dog, so he had to go to a new foster home. Jake should not be considered for anyone with another “alpha” or dominant dog, and he should NOT be left unsupervised with any dog until they have settled in together. He has made great progress with learning to play nice, and not get cranky when the game is not going his way. He also loves his toys and although he has NEVER growled at a person over them, he has growled at other dogs over his toys.

Jake loves to play and is very eager for attention. He can sit when asked and will give you his paw. He also loves to play fetch and go for walks on his leash. He’s a cuddle boy, and seems to have no clue that he is much too big to be a lap dog. In spite of his inability to hunt well, he is prey driven and will chase birds and other ‘prey’. Jake is NOT CAT FRIENDLY.

He is great with kids, and loves attention from my kids. He currently sleeps in his crate in my youngest son’s (who is 10) room, and loves to jump in the bed with him when he’s watching TV. I would not suggest him with smaller children just because he might knock them down in his excitement. Also, Jake is a hugger. He loves to jump up on you like a bear, wrap his arms around you, bury his face in your chest or under your arm, and hug. It is something he does when he is seeking attention & love, and we have not discouraged him from it. He also loves to wrestle, and if you start a match with him, he will give you a good work out. He is ideal for someone who wants a 'hearty' dog that likes to play. My husband and oldest son wrestle with him often, but Jake will only do this if YOU instigate the match. Otherwise, he is fairly gentle.

Jake is doing well with both house and crate training, but should be watched closely as you would with a puppy, as he was previously an outdoor dog, so is still learning. He will not bark to go out, but does become visibly anxious. He has access to a doggie door here, which he is doing well with, and does well during the day and at night inside his crate. When in his crate, he will bark and/or whine if he needs to go out.

He is an overall happy boy who wants to be the apple of someone’s eye most of all. He is a great companion with people, and eager to please. Anyone with time to give him some 1 on 1 attention will find him an intelligent dog that is willing to learn. He is doing well on a leash, but still needs to learn not to pull. He also rides well in a car and is ideal for a family who is on the go. He is an ideal boy for the family who wants to go hiking, camping or just go hang out at the park.