aksel

Aksel is a 9-ish year old pit bull with a big personality and an even bigger zest for life. This senior boy still has plenty of spark and enthusiasm, and he’s looking for a home that understands him and is ready to help him continue learning calmer ways to show his excitement.In his kennel, Aksel is social and eager to interact. He approaches with enthusiasm, jumps up to say hello, and is excited to get out. He’s easy to leash, though he can occasionally mouth the leash when overstimulated—he does respond to verbal correction and guidance. On walks, he pulls at a moderate level and benefits from structure and consistency.Aksel enjoys body handling and petting, which can be calming for him. He allows paw handling, though when arousal builds he may redirect his excitement with light nipping at sleeves or the leash. He is more sensitive around his hind end and can become tense with butt handling. With muzzle handling, he allows initial contact but may escalate if overstimulated, often giving clear eye contact just before becoming too excited. Reading his signals and giving him breaks is key.During play and assessment activities, Aksel shows that he loves interaction and play, but he can become over-aroused quickly. He jumps, nips at hands, and seeks intense engagement, so structured play and impulse-control work will be important for him. This isn’t aggression—it’s excitement that needs guidance and management.When it comes to resources, Aksel does well. He does not guard food and remains soft-bodied and relaxed with handling around his bowl. With toys and chews, his interest is mild; he will relinquish items and shows only light, manageable behaviors.With people, Aksel is very curious and social. He happily approaches strangers, sniffs, licks hands, and shows relaxed body language—though again, excitement can lead to jumping and mouthy behavior if not redirected.Aksel is dog social, showing particular interest in other dogs. He can be a bit tall, forward, and invasive with sniffing, so he’ll do best with patient, confident dogs—likely females—who can tolerate his enthusiasm and with slow, thoughtful introductions.### Aksel’s Ideal Home* **Adult-only home (no children)*** **Experienced dog owners*** Commitment to **positive-reinforcement training and behavior modification*** Willingness to work on **arousal control, jumping, and mouthiness*** A structured environment with clear bo