Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Good with cats,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped. * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.Adoption fee: $750 Meet Sawyer! Sawyer is a 1–2 year old, 20 lb Terri-poo mix who came to DPS from the shelter after being found as a stray. While we don’t know much about his life before rescue, it’s clear that Sawyer is still learning about the world and discovering what it means to be a dog— and he’s doing it with a whole lot of love and enthusiasm. Daily Life & Routine Sawyer thrives on routine and is doing well with structure. He wakes up around 7:00 a.m. and starts his day with a walk and potty break, followed by breakfast. He typically goes potty in the morning and is let out every few hours throughout the day, especially when he’s out of his kennel. Dinner is around 5:00 p.m., and he settles in for the night around 11:00 p.m. During the day, Sawyer likes to lounge on the sofa, on the carpet, or near his foster’s desk so he can stay close. At night, he sleeps in his kennel. While he doesn’t go into the crate on command yet and sometimes needs a gentle nudge, he settles in immediately once inside. He does not whine, has no accidents in the crate, and sleeps through the night without issue. Personality & Temperament When Sawyer first arrived in foster care, he was understandably stressed and clingy, with a couple of accidents as he adjusted. Since then, his personality has truly blossomed. Now he’s a happy, energetic pup who wants to play, explore, and be near his people. He’s extremely curious and loves watching the world from the window. Sawyer is a huge cuddler with absolutely no sense of personal space— in the best way. He will always find a way to snuggle or press up close to you, often putting his cheek right against yours. He’s very affectionate, gentle, and loving. Sawyer does follow his person from room to room but does not show separation anxiety. As long as someone is home, he’s content even if they’re in another room. He does well when left alone in his kennel and has been left for up to five hours without any problems. Energy Level & Playfulness Sawyer is very playful and full of puppy-like energy. He enjoys activity and would benefit from regular walks and playtime, but he also knows how to settle himself and take naps. After longer walks, he will naturally rest, and he often chooses to nap in his kennel on his own. Leash Skills & Training Sawyer is still learning how to walk nicely on a leash and does pull, especially as he gets excited. He’s strong for his size but very trainable and eager to learn. He’s currently working on basic commands like “sit” and is making progress. He does bark and get excited when he sees other dogs on walks, but it’s playful and curious rather than aggressive. He will benefit greatly from continued leash training and socialization. Chewing & Puppy Behaviors Like many young dogs, Sawyer is a chewer— especially when bored, so supervision and appropriate chew toys are important. He has adult teeth but still seems to enjoy chewing, possibly as a comfort behavior. Bully sticks have been a big hit, and while he does use some chew toys, he’s still learning what’s appropriate and what’s not. Sawyer does bark at strangers, other dogs, shadows, and even his own reflection. He may also growl when looking out the window at unfamiliar sights or sounds. He tends to jump when greeting people and will need continued training to help him channel his excitement appropriately. Socialization Sawyer has not lived with other dogs, cats, or children in foster care, but he played with other dogs while in the shelter and would likely benefit from having a confident, older dog in the home to help teach him the ropes. He’s very gentle when seeking affection and gives soft, sweet kisses, suggesting he would likely do well with children in a family willing to continue his training and socialization. Why Sawyer? Sawyer is incredibly lovable, eager to learn, and deeply affectionate. He has no mean bone in his body and truly just wants to be close to his people. His foster’s favorite thing about him is how he always finds a way to cuddle— often lying directly on top of you and pressing his cheek against yours. Sawyer is the kind of dog who will make you feel loved every single day. If you’re looking for a sweet, snuggly, playful pup with tons of potential and an endless supply of affection, Sawyer might just be your perfect match.January 12, 2026, 5:43 pm
