Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Zabu was abandoned at the shelter alongside his brother Zinny (who is also coming to Canada) when they were just 2 months old. They were in rough shape with scabby skin and very little fur, but they quickly bounced back with proper care and TLC at the shelter.
Zabu is a social dog who can be very shy and cautious with unfamiliar people. When he feels unsure, he prefers to keep his distance rather than approach. Once he develops trust and feels safe with someone, he becomes much more comfortable with human interaction.
Zabu is social with other dogs and has spent most of his life living in a group environment. His brother, Zinny, has historically provided him with additional confidence in unfamiliar situations. Having a confident, socially appropriate canine companion in his future home would be helpful as Zabu adjusts to the transition.
He can walk on leash, although his confidence may decrease in unfamiliar environments. Continued positive leash work and allowing him time to explore new surroundings without pressure should help him become increasingly comfortable.
Zabu does not show food aggression toward people. When he feels insecure, he may hesitate to eat and other dogs can take his food. In situations involving competition around food, he may respond if another dog growls at him. This has developed in a group environment where food has historically been a competitive resource. Providing him with a quiet, protected feeding area and predictable access to food is recommended.
Zabu will likely need some additional support during his initial transition because of his cautious nature and the number of environmental changes involved in travel and relocation. Giving him time, predictability, and the opportunity to build relationships at his own pace will be important. A confident canine companion may also help him navigate his new environment and develop confidence with his new caregivers.
Once Zabu trusts he is such a loyal, loving and delightful dog. He adores cuddles and would give you endless kisses if he could. He loves attention, ear scratches and just to be by your side. He loves to be silly and play with toys and zoom around the shelter with his brother. On hot days you can find him lounging in a pool to cool off. This boy will need a little bit of patience, but boy is he worth it. He will be the most faithful, loving companion, and he will be your shadow for life.
Medical Notes: Treated for ehrlichia and anaplasmosis
Good with men: Yes, he has had positive experiences with male caregivers and the male veterinarian
Good with women: Yes
Good with kids: Yes, older kids recommended as his interactions with kids has been limited
Good with other dogs: Yes
Good with cats: Unknown
House trained: Unknown, he has never been in a house before; however in the area that he is currently living in, there is an interior and exterior area and he knows to go to the bathroom outside on the gravel, versus on the tiled area where he sleeps. House training will be required when he is introduced into a home environment.
Crate trained: No
Energy Level: Medium
Can be handled/touched: Yes, he was a bit nervous for his grooming and vet appointment, but did well and had no issues. Once he is comfortable, feels safe and trusts someone he is a ball of love and affection.
Barker: Occasionally, he will join in when other dogs are barking
Flight risk: Yes, after a long and stressful travel day from Mexico and being introduced to an entirely new environment, with new people and nothing being familiar he will be very nervous and may try to run. Extra precautions should be taken to ensure he cannot escape a home or vehicle while he settles in.
Food aggressive: No, Zabu has grown up in a group environment where food has historically been a competitive resource. Providing him with a quiet, protected feeding area and predictable access to food is recommended.
Walks on leash: Yes, although his confidence may decrease in an unfamiliar situation
Leash reactive to people or dogs: No
Rides well in car: Yes, he has had limited experience riding in cars but did well on his recent car ride
Destructive: No known destructive behaviours
Needs a home with a yard: Preferred
Needs a home with another dog: Yes, Zabu will benefit from having another confident dog in the house to help him learn and adjust to his new environment
Can live in an apartment: Yes, as long as he receives regular exercise and enrichment - apartment in a not so busy city preferred Please visit our website niagaradogrescue.com to learn more about this amazing pet and to see other available dogs.
