Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
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: $650 Meet Merry – the Sweet, Sensitive “Wiggle-Butt” Who Blossomed Into a Cuddly, Playful Companion Merry is a 5–6 month old Australian Cattle Dog/Shepherd mix in the 20 lb range who arrived at the rescue with her brother, Bright. Shy at first glance but overflowing with love once she trusts you, Merry is one of those special pups who blossoms a little more every single day. Her foster family calls her “wiggle butt” because the second you walk through the door— whether after a long day or a 30-second trip to the bathroom— she wags so hard her whole back half wobbles with joy. Daily Rhythm Merry wakes up between 7–8 AM and kicks off her day with an impressive 2–4 mile walk. She enjoys several walks throughout the day (typically 3–4), and after each outing she’s happy to nibble on some food— especially if offered gently by hand. At home, her preferred spot is curled up on the couch right next to her human. By 10 PM she settles into her crate and sleeps through the night. Personality: From Timid to Tenderhearted When Merry first arrived, she was a quiet, scared little girl who found comfort almost exclusively in cuddles and sleep. She bonded most deeply with the female foster in the home and quickly became her little shadow— following her everywhere, curling up beside her, and seeking her out for reassurance. When “mom” isn’t around, she’ll happily snuggle with “dad,” though she doesn’t trail him room-to-room. Over the weeks, Merry has blossomed. She discovered toys. She rediscovered joy. And she found her voice! A pup who was silent for her first few days now gives soft barks when she wants to play or get attention. She goes from cozy couch-potato to energetic playmate in seconds— then back to nap mode once that burst is spent. She is a lovely balance of gentle cuddler and lively pup. She is still learning to feel safe with new people. Visitors can be scary for her, and she may bark when someone unfamiliar walks inside. With patient introductions and space, she warms slowly, and she’s making progress every week. Other Animals, New Environments & Kids Merry has met one dog off-leash and, after some initial barking and uncertainty, did well with mutual sniffing and enjoyed their walk together. She’s curious but nervous when dogs approach too quickly. She has interacted with children ages 1, 2, and 8. She was most comfortable with the 8-year-old but was still timid. Toddlers overwhelmed her, so she would do best in a home with older, dog-savvy kids—or none at all. Energy & Play Merry is the perfect mix of mellow and spunky. After a long walk, she becomes a warm, snuggly little couch companion. Then, after a nap, she’ll pop awake full of enthusiasm and ready for playtime. Walking Style On leash, Merry does fairly well overall, though she may zigzag, get underfoot, or wrap the leash around you while she’s figuring things out. She generally walks best at a brisk pace. She doesn’t chase squirrels or bark at other dogs, but she may become shy if they try to greet her. She’s very proud of herself when she gets to carry a stick. House & Crate Training Merry has made huge strides in potty training, now consistently going on walks and accident-free for several days. She is fully crate-trained and sleeps peacefully through the night. Puppy Behaviors Like most young dogs, Merry has some normal puppy quirks: Chewing: If she’s bored, she may go for pillows, etc— but she redirects easily to toys and then happily sticks with them. Digging: She likes to dig if left alone in the yard. Barking: She barks when someone unfamiliar enters the home but is quiet with people walking by outside. What Makes Merry Special Merry isn’t just loving— she is deeply affectionate with her people. Once she trusts you, she lets her full personality shine: wiggly, cuddly, goofy, and earnest. Her clumsy charm is irresistible: she once got so excited to greet her foster that she fell off a curb, bounced right up, and leaped back into their arms. She is one of those dogs who reminds you every day that you are her whole world. Why You’ll Fall in Love If you’re looking for a tenderhearted young dog who wants to adore and be adored, who will wiggle with joy every time you walk through the door, and who is ready to continue building confidence with a loving, patient adopter— Merry is your girl. She’s sweet, loyal, silly, snuggly, and so deserving of a home where she can continue blossoming.December 7, 2025, 8:14 pm
