cleo

Adoption donation: $400

Meet Cleo: Your Tiny Shark with a Big Personality (and Zero Volume Control)

Hey there, I’m Cleo! I was born on 9/10/25, which means I am very much still a puppy. I’m a black and tan female Doberman with natural ears, a docked tail, and energy levels best described as “unchecked.” I’m also deaf, which makes me a little special, a little louder than average, and definitely not your typical puppy.

A Little About Me:

Personality:My foster mom lovingly describes me as a shark, and honestly? Fair. I’m playful, pushy, stubborn, and still figuring out that teeth are not meant for everything. I haven’t learned bite inhibition yet, and while I mean no harm, I absolutely will put teeth on things (and people) during play. I also have very little understanding of body language from other dogs so I need all my play supervised so I can learn when to quit, otherwise I will be way too much for most dogs.

Because I’m deaf, I bark… loudly. I can’t hear myself, I can’t hear you coming, and I can’t hear verbal corrections, so yes, I announce my presence like it’s my full-time job. When I’m done playing, though, I know how to shut myself down and head to my crate for a nap like a champ.

I’m not a constant Velcro dog. I do enjoy cuddles, but I also really value my alone time and will happily tuck myself away when I’m overstimulated.

My Story:I came into rescue after a kind person stepped in when my breeder planned to euthanize me due to my poor health. I’m the only known survivor of my litter, and I do have some special needs. My deafness is the most obvious, but I also have some motor and vision challenges that make me clumsier than the average puppy. The good news? I’ve already shown improvement since being in rescue, and with the right home, I can continue to thrive.

Manners and Training:I’m crate trained and currently working on potty training (progress is happening!). I respond best to structure, routine, and physical guidance, not verbal cues. Gently flip me onto my back and I turn into a calm, quiet noodle (I may need some firm reminding if I'm really wound up) — otherwise, I’m full-speed puppy mode.

Training will need to be adapted for a deaf dog, and consistency is everything with me. I am smart, but I’m also pushy and stubborn, so I need someone who won’t let me run the household.

Special Considerations:The rescue will automatically reject anyone who applies that ignores the following criteria:


I must go to a Doberman-experienced or working dog experienced home.
No small children. I have no bite inhibition yet and WILL snap during play
Male dogs only. No female dogs due to future same-sex aggression risk
I’m good with cats and other dogs, but I play hard and don’t read social cues well
I am deaf, loud, clumsy, and require patience, structure, and supervision
I am a special-needs dog and need adopters who take that seriously


Health and Vetting:I’m spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccines, heartworm negative, and negative for intestinal parasites. I’m medically stable, just… a little different.

Why You’ll Love Me:If you’re an experienced Doberman person who understands structure, boundaries, and unconventional pups, I have the potential to be an incredible dog. I’m resilient, silly, energetic, and learning every day. I just need someone patient, committed, and ready to help me become the best version of myself.

I’m not easy — but I’m worth it.

Can’t wait to meet you! Love,Cleo
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