Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Story
Location: Calgary, AB //
Age: Approx 3 years //
Sex: Female //
Energy Level: Medium //
Dogs: Yes, calm friendly dogs //
Cats: Not tested //
Kids: Older, respectful kids //
🐾 Meet Holly! 🐾
Tiny in size, HUGE in personality! 💕 Holly is a sweet little Bichon Frisé girl, around 3 years old, who is quickly discovering just how wonderful life can be when you have a cozy bed, a loving human, and plenty of opportunities for cuddles. 🐾
Holly is an absolute lap dog who wants to be included in whatever her people are doing. She’ll happily follow you from room to room, supervise the household chores, snuggle on the couch, and then suddenly break into a hilarious zoomie session like she hasn’t been napping five minutes earlier! 😂 She loves bum scratches, has recently discovered toys, and apparently believes the laundry is simply free bedding material—her foster family has caught her dragging clothes into her bed to make herself an extra cozy nest. 🐾
She also has a wonderfully goofy side. Holly will play with herself in the mirror, and if you start singing or dancing in the kitchen, don't be surprised if she gets up on her hind legs and joins in with a little dance of her own. 💃🐶
Holly can be shy when meeting new people and environments, but once she feels safe, she becomes incredibly affectionate and devoted. She has made wonderful progress in just a short time in foster care, going from being unsure and whiny to running around the house, playing, cuddling, and confidently following her foster mom everywhere. She is learning to walk on a harness and leash, learning her name, and working on her potty routine. 🐾
Now, let's talk about Holly's tiny-dog-with-big-opinions side. 😅 Holly can be a little bossy with other dogs and doesn't always understand personal boundaries. She has done well with her very patient foster sibling, but we'd like her future canine companion to be a calm, respectful dog who won't be bothered by her occasionally rude little-dog manners. She may be happiest as an only dog where she can soak up all the attention, or with one calm, friendly dog who is tolerant of her "I'm in charge here" personality. 👑
Holly has also shown some mild resource guarding around food and her favourite person. Her foster family has been able to manage this with supervision, structure, space, and gentle guidance. Her new family will need to continue working on trust, confidence, and appropriate boundaries using positive, force-free training. 🐾
Because Holly bonds closely with her person, she would love a calm, loving home where someone is around often and where she won't be left alone for long stretches. Older, respectful children could be a good fit. She doesn't need a marathon runner for a human—short walks, playtime, cuddles, and being included in everyday life are plenty for this little lady. ❤️
Holly is still learning what it means to be a companion dog, and she needs someone who will give her the time and patience to continue figuring it all out. In return, you'll get a devoted little shadow, professional cuddler, laundry interior designer, occasional kitchen dancer, and one very lovable tiny dog who just wants to feel safe and belong. 🥰
Holly is looking for her person—and preferably someone who understands that when you're this cute, being a little bossy is practically part of the job description. 👑🐾
If you're interested in meeting Holly, please complete an application https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form