tuff

“Dogs are minor angels. They love unconditionally, are the truest of friends, and are willing to do anything that makes us happy." This reminds us of Tuff! He is eight years old and weighs 72 pounds. Tuff has the cutest ears and his beautiful eyes will melt your heart.

Tuff spent some time in a foster home and his Mom reports: "If you’re looking for a dog that already knows how to ‘dog’ (and also how to ‘human’), Tuff’s your guy. Don’t let his name, stature, nor age fool you - Tuff is the gentlest of giants with LOTS of love and life yet to give.

This guy has been our ‘snow angel’ for the past week, giving us a chance to know him in the home environment.
- Fully housebroken (waits by the door / is beginning to ring the doggie doorbell when he’s ready to go out)
- Low-strung (AKA not high strung whatsoever)
- Respectful of shared toys, attention, and space; no resource guarding observed (mealtime is the only time we have to be somewhat cautious, but that’s because of OUR greedy dog, not Tuff)
- Never seems to turn his ears off (he can be dead asleep in back of house, we say his name and he prances over, reporting for duty)
- Knows ‘sit’, ‘shake’, ‘lay down’, we’re working on ‘stay’; responds *immediately* to his name and ‘no’
- Smart as a whip, picked up on our routines instantly
- Eager to please
- Loves his people, but seems to be unbothered by being left alone
- Tries to talk (especially an ‘awoo’ around meal time), but very rarely barks
- Give him a bone/hoof/antler, and he’s occupied indefinitely
- Loves going on a walk or chasing balls/frisbees in a fenced-in area, and I think he could also make a great running partner (he does pull occasionally when walking, but he’s learning quickly not to do that; he does much better if he’s harnessed)
- Equally loves lounging on the couch or on a dog bed; has yet to seem restless/antsy - even on the days we were unable to do more than just potty breaks (due to weather)
- Affectionate and loves to snuggle, but is respectful when you ask him to get down
- Gets along well with our less-than-tolerant, little senior grumpy beagle-boy; really they ignore each other but Tuff does love to give a random face lick to our boy.
- Quick to back down if challenged (our dog put this to the test a few times over dog food and dropped human food)
- Does great in the car (loves hanging his head out the window even in this arctic weather)
- Tuff is the most calm guy that’s entered our home. He’s going to make someone so, so very happy, and it’s going to be incredibly “Tuff” letting this one go.
[Other tidbits:
- We never had to crate him, but we did put up a baby gate to separate him from our dog when we left; he respected this boundary (and I imagine he would crate just fine due to his chill nature)
- He slept on the couch at night, away from us; never whined that he wasn’t with us (even though our dog sleeps with us)
- He definitely recognizes the smell/joys of human food and will want to come investigate, but will go away when told
- Does not appear to be a bolter; he tried to get out the door one time but stopped in his tracks when my husband said his name."

Tuff is such a sweet dog, and is a truly joyful presence! We enjoy his company so much! He is a sought after walking companion and adores being close by your side. Tuff loves to explore the beautiful trails on our shelter grounds and is so curious and interested in everything.

Tuff looks forward to outings in the fenced yard, where he loves to run and play. He has such fun with the toys, and the JollyBall is his very favorite!

Tuff has had a great time meeting his fellow shelter companions in play groups. If you have another dog, we do require a meet and greet to ensure compatibility.

Tuff is always ready for a pet and a cuddle and has such a beautiful heart. One of our volunteers observes that he exudes life and love! He enjoys the company of people of all ages.

Recently, a mother and her son visited the shelter. The young man had Down's Syndome and he and Tuff had such a beautiful connection - it was truly magical to see Tuff interact with this special child. Tuff was so kind, patient and loving. He is truly a special dog!

He wants to please and should learn any commands you want to teach him.

Tuff is going to be such a fun, loyal and devoted family dog. If you can open your heart and your home to an older dog, Tuff would love to meet you! He is the perfect combination of active and chill!

E-mail ccacangels@yahoo.com for more information!

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