Some dogs are naturally timid or shy, while others may not have learned to trust people while they were young. These dogs need to feel safe before they will interact with people; the work to build a relationship of trust could be a long and hard one but the experience can be one of the most rewarding of dog ownership. Chicken Little Dogs: are fearful of new people and places, take time to trust, shut down here at the shelter, and will bite if people push or try to interact too quickly. However, once they trust a person, the often become very bonded.
OTHER PETS: Small Fry isn't interested in being best friends with other dogs. He's been more interested in sniffing and investigating his new environment, but is happy to hang close to his favorite people when he's feeling comfortable. He may do well with another relaxed, tolerant dog in the home. [Case-By-Case (Must Meet First)]
OWNER EXPERIENCE: Small Fry is nervous and slow to warm up with new people, so he would likely do best with someone that has experience with helping nervous dogs adjust to new environments and positive reinforcement in order to avoid creating additional pressure and any unnecessary sense of conflict. [Some Experience]
KIDS: Small Fry has been tolerant of handling and hasn't shown any signs of resource guarding while here at TJO. Since he's so wary of new people though, he will likely do best in a home without a lot of noise or foot traffic. Older kids who are able to understand how to interact with him and when to let him have his own space would be best. [15+ (Must Meet First)]
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Small Fry is reluctant to walk on a leash but has been okay with being carried once he trusts someone. He's more than happy to curl up in a warm bed, but enjoys his leisurely walks around an enclosed yard when the weather is fair enough. A combination of regular exercise and plenty of mental enrichment such as food puzzles and games will help meet his needs. [Couch Potato]
VETERINARY CARE: Small Fry is currently in need of a dental but otherwise seems to be in good health. [Routine]
LEVEL OF TRAINING NEEDED: Small Fry is still at the beginning of his positive training journey, and will do best learning with someone who can offer patience while he adjusts. Positive reinforcement training will help Small Fry not only learn his basic cues, but also help him to feel more comfortable and confident in himself! It will provide a good opportunity for him to bond with his new owner as well. [Minimal]
GROOMING: Due to his fur texture and length, Rico will need to be brushed routinely in order to prevent him from becoming matted. He may also do well with professional grooming appointments to help keep him clean and comfortable. [Routine Brushing]
December 10, 2025, 9:52 am
