What is the Right Dog Breed for You?
We’ve been talking a lot about dog DNA lately with the results of Roscoe’s panel being shared (and surprising many of us). While we understand the urge to pick a purebred dog or specific mix based on past experience or expectations, there may be someone even better out there for you. Here at the shelter, we have one-of-a-kind dog breeds to consider.
Have you met a Mountain Puddle Pooch? This is a dog who cannot resist the appeal of a puddle, pond, or other body of water. They come in all sizes and colors but are distinguished by the constant presence of muddy paws. They always roll in puddles immediately after getting a bath.
What about a Lap Warming Mutt? These loveable dogs are happiest when they are in direct physical contact with their person. Although you might assume these are smaller dogs, Lap Warmers come in all sizes and often have no idea they don’t fit in a lap. Latte is a good example. She weighs 80 pounds but is happiest when she’s in the lap of someone she trusts.
Ball Hounds are a very fun and active type of canine. These pups are the obsessive, single-focused members of the dog world. They are constantly watching for round, bouncing shapes, and will chase them until their person finally gets tired and stops throwing. This dog is recommended for an active family.
Do you have what it takes to adopt an Adventure Pooch? These are dogs who are happiest out on hiking trails, deserts, sledding hills, ski trails, and mountains. They will walk all day, drink from a travel bowl, and share a rock to rest on before starting up the trail again. They will be asleep as soon as they get back in the car.
A Humor Hound is a dog who will keep you laughing. They usually have no self-awareness and will be as goofy and silly as needed to get attention. Our boy Petey is a great example of this, with his expressive face and constant need for scratches on his belly, his back, or his butt.
One breed of shelter dog that sometimes gets overlooked is the Barking Spaniel. They don’t do well in confinement, and their nervousness comes out as barking, pacing, or other nervous habits. When potential adopters show up, they’re often put off by the noise. Most Barking Spaniels will adjust to a home environment very well, and will only bark at danger (or squirrels, or birds, or the mailman).
Brandi is a five-year-old Hesitant Heeler (at first). After she gets to know you, she’s silly, loving, and would make a perfect companion. Her person passed away, and she needs a safe, loving space to heal and learn to trust.
Since 1994, the Animal Resource Center and Shops of Second Chance Humane Society have been serving Ouray, San Miguel, and Montrose Counties. Our adoption hours are every day, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Address is 177 County Rd 10, Ridgway, CO. You can view our shelter pets and services online at secondchancehumane.org.