Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Good with cats,
House-trained,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Socialization: Lacta is timid at first, but warms up quicky and is very social. She loves playing with other dogs, the game of Chase is her favorite! She is on the submissive side with other dogs but she tends to love everyone, with other dogs it's all about "Play"! If they choose not to play she is respectful, she is on the submissive side in general. She does have a strong prey drive, but I think she could live with a cat after some training. She was at a rescue event recently, and she did very well, she was friendly and playful with all the other dogs and happily said hello to all of the people.
Training: Lactra does know stay when opening the car door. She does respond to "no". Lacta is on high alert at all times, so training is tricky, having another dog around would be beneficial. She will tolerate a crate. I would suggest one, especially when in a new home to re acclimate. Lacta is very reactive to sudden movement and loud noises close to her. She does best with consistency. She responds well to reassurance and praise. She will plant her feet and refuse to move forward if she is scared, if you get down to her level and give her a minute, she will show trust and move forward. She loves to say hi to people by jumping up on them, she is still learning to keep her paws on the ground when meeting people.
Activity requirements: For Lacta leash walks will not be sufficient on a daily basis. Lactra loves to run and play, either with other dogs or herself or you. We do our best to hit the dog park every day for a minimum of 30 minutes, if we miss the park we leash walk a good 2 miles. She is okay on a leash, does good with another dog too, her nose is usually to the ground. She will sometimes balk at strangers, and it's best to cross the street and avoid the confrontation. Lacta is strong and fast, capable of backing out of a collar or a harness. We did miss a couple days of exercise and she was able to accept that but I would not let her go for more than 2 days max, without exercise, just would not be fair to her.
Fence requirements: A decent size yard with a fence would be best with ample room to run, and dog parks work well for Lacta as well. The fence height wouldn't be much of an issue, 4 feet would be sufficient, she is very athletic, but I don't think she would escape, only if she was frightened. An invisible fence may be considered for her.
Personality: Lacta is one of a litter of 6 puppies that Momma Roxy had in Lamia, Greece in late May 2024. Lacta is a lover 100%, she loves her human, and she loves canine company too. I think she would do best with another dog to show her the ropes! She, so far, is not really into toys, but tennnis balls seem to catch her eye from time to time. She does love to play!
Medical history: Lacta is spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and on monthly heartworm prevention. She is in good health. Her next leishmaniasis test is due in October 2026.
This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80.
Foster comments: A good home for lacta would be a home with someone home most of the day, no more than 5 hrs a day alone, hopefully with another dog. Someone who has patience and knowledge of working with a shy dog, a potential adopter would really have to be able to accommodate a reactive, shy dog. I think she would make great companion for another dog who needed a friend. She would be do best in a home where there was not a lot of traffic of humans coming and going, a somewhat quiet home.
Foster location: Des Moines, IA
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