Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Not good with cats,
House-trained,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Jake! This adorable, scruffy boy is safe today because someone refused to look away. Jake had been living outdoors with only a small plastic doghouse and dirty blankets for shelter. A Good Samaritan noticed his situation during her morning commute and reached out for help as winter weather approached. When a volunteer visited, she found a filthy pen with no fresh food or water, and empty Styrofoam containers scattered around. Despite offers to provide supplies so he could come indoors during freezing temperatures, his owners declined, saying he had always lived outside. With an ice storm on the way, his now foster mom, Bethany, and her husband stepped in. They returned, advocated for him, and ultimately secured his freedom. Thanks to their persistence, Jake is now safe, warm, and thriving in his foster home. He’s already seen the vet and, incredibly, is heartworm negative! Jake’s foster mom, Bethany, is a budding trainer who is close to completing a two-year training program, so she’s able to share both a foster and trainer’s perspective. THE BASICS Breed: Terrier Mix - likely Norwich Terrier mix Age: Approximately 6–7 years (but don’t tell him that!) Weight: 22 lbs Coat: Low shed - has been professionally groomed and did well Other: Happy-go-lucky, social pup who loves to play and is good with other dogs PERSONALITY Jake is a happy, confident, people-loving little dog whose whole body seems to say “hello!” wherever he goes. Despite his past, you’d never guess he spent time living outside. He greets everyone he meets - neighbors, visitors, kids, and strangers, with joyful enthusiasm. His foster family describes him as “jaunty,” because he carries himself with such cheerful confidence. He’s incredibly social and loves being part of whatever his people are doing—whether that’s yard work, working at the computer, or heading out for an adventure. Jake is active and playful, with the energy of a much younger dog. He enjoys walks, playtime, and even playing fetch, but he’s also happy to settle nearby with a chew or toy when things slow down. He occasionally thinks he’s a lap dog. DOGS, KIDS & CATS Dogs: Jake loves other dogs and would thrive with a playful canine companion. He enjoys doggy playdates and can play enthusiastically for long stretches, so his ideal buddy would match his energy and size. Cats: Jake is not a good fit for homes with cats. Kids: He has met neighborhood children and does well and enjoys them. His foster’s neighborhood is very walkable, and there are always people out and children playing. Because he’s small and enthusiastic, respectful kids who are out of the toddler stage are best. ACTIVITY LEVEL Jake is an active dog who loves to go and do. He currently enjoys two walks per day and lots of yard playtime, as well as playdates with his doggie friends. He’s not a couch potato and would do best with active adopters who want a companion for walks, outings, and daily life. Jake really enjoys being with his people, and preference will be given to families with a flexible work schedule. TRAINING & HOUSE MANNERS Jake is making great progress with house training, but still needs oversight and regular potty breaks to build good habits. His new family will need to maintain a consistent routine. He walks great on leash (no reactivity), and is currently using a 2 Hounds Design Freedom Harness that will come with him. He rides well in the car and is learning his basic commands. His foster mom has been using an ex-pen for him to give him a bit more space, and he always keeps his sleeping area clean. JAKE'S PERFECT HOME Jake would thrive in a home that: Enjoys daily walks and activity Has another playful dog (or owners who will engage him often) Is patient and consistent with continued house training Wants a loyal companion who loves being part of the action This sweet boy has finally discovered how wonderful life can be. Now he’s ready to find the family who will give him the love and adventures he deserves. If you're looking for a happy, affectionate, and fun-loving companion, Jake may be your perfect match. Apply today! BEED ESTIMATE: Terrier (likely Norwich Terrier) GENDER: Male APPROXIMATE WEIGHT: 22 lbs APPROXIMATE AGE: ~6 to 7 years old COAT TYPE: medium length, lower shed coat that needs regular grooming. ADOPTION FEE: $425 OTHER INFO: UTD on shots/neutered/microchipped LOCATION: Annandale, VA FOR MORE INFO OR TO ADOPT: Please go to https://adopt.worthydog.org and complete the application. You can also help save dogs like this one by becoming a foster, providing a rescue dog with a temporary home and giving them the love and care they need until they are permanently adopted. Every person who fosters is directly responsible for saving the life of a dog, because we can only save as many dogs as we have foster families available to welcome them into their homes. If you think you might be interested in becoming a foster and want to learn more, please go to https://foster.worthydog.org and fill out an application. Worthy Dog Rescue is an all-volunteer, foster-based rescue that primarily adopts to families in the DC Metro area. April 29, 2026, 9:16 am
