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Story
Alfie is a one-of-a-kind, high-energy companion with a joyful spirit and a deep love for both people and other dogs. He is 4 years old and about 55 lbs. Alfie was originally adopted as a puppy from the Austin TX shelter, and he found himself back in the shelter as a stray recently. The owner, per his microchip, did not respond when the shelter reached out so SWESR was contacted for help. We knew he wasn’t a purebred ES but he looked “settery” and he really needed out of a very full, very rescue friendly shelter. When he was showing strong herding instincts in his foster home we had him DNA tested and learned he is a diverse mix that matches his outstanding personality and looks (see summary below). Our DVM said that he was severely malnourished and he was either on his own for quite some time or someone was starving him; so it is not surprising that Alfie is very food motivated because he knows what it is like to endure food insufficiency. When it’s feeding time, Alfie spins and does the cutest front leg prancing dance. After spending just a few minutes in the back with Alfie, our Vet said “this dog is going to give someone a lifetime of smiles”. Alfie can tell us a few things about his life before rescue: he is house and crate trained and someone was very physical about disciplining him to the point that he was initially afraid to get on the couch, but now he jumps up for snuggles and kisses. Alfie is smart and very much wants to please his person and he knows when he is caught doing something he shouldn’t, like sneaking a can of dog food or a packet of cat treats off the counter. He remembers and he is no longer counter surfing though he may need a refresher in his new home. From the start, Alfie has shown himself to be affectionate, social, and eager to connect—he thrives on interaction and happily accompanies his people wherever they go. He bonds quickly, enjoys physical closeness, and has a playful, almost exuberant presence. Alfie especially loves other dogs and will enthusiastically seek them out for play, often wanting to run and play for hours at a time. There is a 14 year old English Setter in his foster home and it wasn’t very difficult for him to learn to leave her alone. In addition to being very persistent about playing, Alfie also herds the other dogs, which is very understandable looking at his DNA results. He doesn’t have a strong prey drive and is easily redirected. He doesn’t have a strong escape drive, he mostly just wants to be wherever his person is. He has been respectful around cats. Alfie is intelligent and trainable, responding to basic commands like “no,” “here,”, “hush”, and his name. He walks well on a leash and adjusted to his foster home within a couple of weeks. Like many smart, energetic dogs, he benefits from structure and redirection. He quickly found the doggy toy box, picked his favorites and has mostly learned what is his to chew on. Alfie requires significant daily exercise and mental stimulation. A securely fenced yard is required where he can safely run and play. While he does not actively try to escape, he may take advantage of open gates or doors, so a vigilant home is important. He is sensitive to raised voices and he may initially react cautiously to new situations, but he quickly responds. Alfie loves to give kisses, since he is mouthy in his affection with people, we think kids in his forever home should be 12+ years old. Alfie is not a good fit for apartment living or a low-activity household. He would do best with an active person that can provide both structure and outlets for his energy. Alfie is thriving in rescue and has put on much needed weight. He will be an incredibly rewarding companion for some lucky person or family. His affectionate nature, intelligence, and zest for life make him a special dog who will flourish with the right match. He enjoy another active and playful dog in his forever home, but he would probably be ok as an only dog as long as his person works/stays at home and has an active lifestyle that includes the opportunity for Alfie to meet and play with other dogs. A DNA test revealed that Alfie is a unique and amazing Herding Hound! It was not a surprise that one of his parents was mostly Aussie with the sweet surprise of a smidge of Miniature American Shepherd. His Herding breed DNA total is 61% thanks to some American Cattle dog thrown in from the other parent. The big surprise was Catahoula Leopard Dog as his 2nd highest DNA at 16%. When you add in 2% Bluetick Coonhound, our special boy is 18% Hound! Alfie’s DNA reveals that he possesses five breed classes and twelve specific breeds, making him one of the bestest and most special pups ever! Alfie is neutered, up to date on vaccines and tests, microchipped and on heartworm preventative. Are you the person that Alfie is going to delight and love for the rest of his life? August 4, 2026, 4:12 pm
