Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Not good with cats,
House-trained,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
LONG-TERM FOSTER OR FOREVER HOME NEEDED ❤️
RJ is a 6½-year-old mixed breed with a heart as big as his paws. With a unique blend of American Pit Bull Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Labrador Retriever, Boxer, and German Shepherd, RJ is a handsome, athletic, and intelligent companion who’s ready to find a home that truly understands him.
Originally rescued from a Texas shelter at around 1½ years old, RJ made his way to Washington and spent six months with Forever Home Dog Rescue before being adopted in October 2021. His early life is a mystery, but it’s likely he spent time on the streets as a puppy. Despite his rough start, RJ has grown into a sweet, fiercely loyal dog who bonds deeply with his people.
What RJ Loves:
Exercise & Adventure: RJ thrives with daily activity—he’s a fantastic running and hiking partner and enjoys fetch and chase (though he might not always bring the ball back!). He has been on many backpacking trips and loves being outside. He does well on long walks with familiar people and dogs.
Toys & Playtime: Balls, chew toys, and stuffed animals are his favorites, but he’s a toy destroyer if left unsupervised.
Training & Mental Stimulation: Smart and eager to please, RJ enjoys learning commands and being rewarded for good behavior.
Lounging & Comfort: After a good play session, RJ loves curling up on a cozy dog bed or couch and catching some serious Zzz’s.
Affection: He’ll greet you with tail wags and kisses (he’s a big licker!) before settling down with a toy nearby.
What RJ Needs:
RJ is a special dog who needs a home that can meet his unique needs and provide structure, patience, and love.
Home Environment: While he’s lived in an apartment, RJ does best in a house with space to roam and a fenced yard.
No Dog Parks: RJ is not a dog park dog and has shown aggression toward male dogs, sometimes unpredictably. He prefers being the alpha and does best with female dogs his size or larger.
No Cats or Small Animals: He has a strong prey drive and should not be placed in a home with cats or other small pets.
No Young Children: RJ has growled at children who tried to pet him on walks and hasn’t lived with kids, so a child-free home is best.
Supervised Toy Time with Other Dogs: Due to resource guarding (mostly over toys and chews), RJ should be in a home where toys aren’t left out and where there are no other resource guarders.
Secure Fencing & Leash Use: RJ doesn’t have reliable recall and should never be off-leash unless in a secure area. He’s athletic and could potentially scale a low fence if tempted by a squirrel.
Companionship: RJ has strong separation anxiety and does best with another dog in the home—ideally a calm, confident female- and/or a home with owners who work from home and are present regularly. He loves to be a member of the "pack".
Car Rides & Crating: RJ is a great passenger and enjoys car rides! He is crate trained and is used to being put in his crate at night.
The Ideal Home for RJ:
RJ is looking for a committed, experienced dog owner who understands behavioral needs and is ready to give him the structure and love he deserves. He’s not a beginner dog, but for the right person or family, he’ll be an incredibly loyal and rewarding companion.
If you’re active, patient, and ready to welcome a dog who will love you fiercely and keep you on your toes, RJ might just be your perfect match.
