Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Needs special attention,
Needs experienced adopter,
House-trained,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Opal!
A spirited five-and-a-half-year-old Australian Cattle Dog currently living in Milwaukie, OR (a suburb of Portland, Oregon) whose essence is a delightful mix of sass, smarts, and snuggliness wrapped in a striking merle coat.
Opal is the kind of girl who throws herself wholeheartedly into everything she loves, whether it’s chasing a squeaky toy across the living room, gently play-biting your hand in the most hilarious display of affection, or performing her signature “fishtail spin” during a round of zoomies that’ll leave you laughing every time! Though she has hip dysplasia, which means long hikes and intense activity are off the table, she still adores walks and bursts of play, especially if there's a tennis ball involved. Watch out, she will chew it to bits with great satisfaction!
Like many clever herding breeds, Opal has a strong personality and a clear communication style. She’s a girl who knows what she likes and what she doesn’t. She feels safest when her world is calm and predictable, and she connects most deeply with one trusted person. Her current caregivers, along with a professional canine behavior specialist, have helped her build confidence through structure, routine, and lots of gentle encouragement.
Opal has also shown some defensive behaviors in the home, particularly with unfamiliar visitors. She has given a few quick nips when people move through her space or try to interact with her before she feels ready. While she has been calm and well-mannered in public settings, a busy household or one with frequent guests can be challenging for her. A quieter environment where introductions can be managed thoughtfully will set her up for success.
Opal is looking for a low-traffic home without children or other pets, where she can relax and be her funny, loyal self. A quiet lifestyle suits her best. She is not a fan of sudden changes or lots of visitors, but give her a cozy space, a caring human, and a predictable routine, and she’ll reward you with her whole heart.
This medium-sized gal (about 40 pounds of pure personality) is smart as a whip! She’s had obedience training, knows her commands (sit, stay, come, shake, down), and listens especially well when her environment is calm and consistent. Plus, she comes with a lifetime training plan from Bark Busters, which her caregivers will transfer to you for a fee of about $300 to Bark Busters. It’s a wonderful resource to help support her continued success.
She’s crate trained, house-trained, microchipped, and vaccinated. She even enjoys relaxing to music when you’re away and will snooze peacefully until you're back. She’s been described as deeply loyal, silly in all the best ways, and totally tuned in to the person she trusts.
Opal isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But for someone looking for a one-of-a-kind companion, she could be the dog of your dreams!
Ready to welcome this bright, bold girl into your life and share in her next round of zoomies? Contact adopt@joyfulpets.com to meet Opal and see if you’re her perfect match!
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