Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with dogs,
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Zuma is part of a litter of Whippet-mix puppies that came to us from Illinois Doberman Rescue after being discovered in the barn where they were born. Having had very little contact with people early in life, the puppies arrived understandably scared, under-socialized, and overwhelmed by the world around them. Many of the puppies are black, but only sweet Zuma sports an adorable mohawk on her neck that makes her extra special.
Since arriving in foster care, Zuma has been learning the comforts of a home and what it means to play, trust, and simply be a puppy. While she is still shy around new people, startled by sudden noises, and nervous about car rides, she has gained tremendous confidence by watching and mirroring the resident dogs in her foster home.
Zuma has made wonderful progress in potty training as she has had no accidents in the house for weeks. Zuma sleeps through the night either in her crate or in the family's bed. She knows several basic commands, including sit, down, and touch, and continues to learn and grow every day.
Her favorite things are squeaky toys, dog puzzles, and retrieving treasures from the yard or around the house to proudly show her foster mom. She spends her afternoons in the home office serving as her foster dad’s loyal co-worker and is always the first dog in the kitchen when meal preparation begins. Her foster mom loves that Zuma's spirited personality is emerging. For example, Zuma has absolutely no concept of privacy when someone is in the bathroom and Zuma gives a little whine if she feels she isn't getting enough pets on the couch while watching Netflix with the family..
While Zuma is comfortable and happy within her familiar world of home and backyard, she is still fearful of unfamiliar environments. Walking on a leash is not something she is ready for yet, and car rides, sudden noises, changes in the household, and meeting new people can be overwhelming for her.
Zuma will thrive in a home with a securely fenced backyard and confident dog companions who can continue helping her build confidence and navigate the world. She needs a patient, understanding adopter who will respect her pace, celebrate her progress, and help her work through her fears with kindness and consistency. With time, love, and the right environment, Zuma will continue to blossom into a devoted, affectionate, and entertaining companion.
