My name is Stag!

Fostered in Guelph

All adoptions with Rebel Dog Rescue have a 15 day probation period. Read about our adoption process on our website.

Stag and his littermate were found tied to a park bench. They were brought to a local shelter, and were rescued. Stag is a very sweet, smart, lovable boy. He has good food drive, has learned 'wait' for his food, his recall is improving (in the yard) and his housetraining is improving everyday. Stag enjoys the company of people, and loves to cuddle on the couch. He is generally quiet in his crate, provided he has had opportunity to burn off his puppy energy. He is fearful of loud noises/new environments, particularly on walks, and so will need a leader that will help him learn about the world. He is making progress every day! He is not reactive to dogs on walks, but is a bit nervous when dogs bark at him. His ideal home would be in a quieter area. He would also do best in a house with a yard, as he enjoys racing around and could do great with other backyard activities like playing with a flirt-pole. He needs a home where they will provide ongoing structure, socialization to new people/environments, and training so he can be the best boy.

Stag Update from His Foster Mom

After about two weeks in foster care, Stag is really starting to come out of his shell and show off his goofy, lovable personality. Hes still a bit nervous and cautious, but hes making progress every single day and its been so rewarding to watch.

Stag conquered the stairs for the very first time and hes becoming more confident exploring his surroundings at his own pace. He absolutely loves romping around the backyard and has so much fun when he feels safe and comfortable. Walks are still a work in progress, as he remains quite nervous outside, but were taking things slow and letting him build confidence..

Stag is truly such a good boy, and with the right adopter someone patient and understanding he is going to grow into an absolutely amazing dog . Hes very food- and toy-motivated, which has been a huge help with learning and bonding

This sweet pup has so much potential and so much love to give. He just needs the right home to help him continue to blossom

Name: Stag

Breed: Shepherd mix

Age: ~7 months

Weight: ~30lb and growing

Sex: Male, neutered

Colour: Black

Medical: No concerns

Good with men: Yes, but shy and warms up quickly

Good with women: Yes

Good with kids 0-6: Unknown, not tested Met a baby and did great

Good with kids 7-15: Yes, has lived with children and does well - Stag is very people orientated and does well with children, overall. He seeks affection from them, and enjoys playing with them. No guarding noted. He can be nervous of quick movements/loud noises, but is getting better. He now typically will want to quickly return to the affection/play. Aggressive or fear based behaviours not observed. Would do best with dog-savvy children.

When the dog meets new people he: Approaches cautiously, Wants affection, Loose body language, Shy

Good with dogs: Yes, loves being around and playing with other dogs

How does this dog react to meeting new dogs? Very playful and outgoing, Loose body language, Jumpy/overly excited, Submissive

What type(s) of dogs does this dog prefer/be best with? Stag has done well with the 2 resident dogs. He shows a lot of respect to my XL senior lab, who does not enjoy being jumped on. They can calmly co-exist, with some structure to ensure Stag does not get too unruly. He attempts to initiate play more with my younger resident Husky. Will respond to correction from her if his play style is too much. Needs to be structured to ensure his puppy antics do not become too much for older dogs.

Good with Cats: Unknown, not tested

Crate trained: yes

House trained: Yes

Resource Guarding: None seen

Walks on a leash: Nervous and needs coaxing

Energy level: Medium-high

Areas to work on: Needs confidence building, Fearful of loud noises, Excitability/jumping up on people, Walking nicely on a leash

What type of environments would NOT be suitable for the dog? Condo/apartment

Any noted separation anxiety? None noted.

Barker: Average - will bark when someone comes to the door, while playing, etc.