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Australian Cattle Dog Mix, 5-6 yrs, 60 lbs.
Where did you get this dog?: My next door neighbor gave me his dog, at my request, rather than abandoning the dog or taking it to the shelter when he moves. He has been cooperative in assisting me with information, but he is determined to leave the dog behind. He has three small children, works 6 days a week, and his wife "hates" the dog because she 'jumps' on the kids. I have called HFP and been told to get her vaccinated which I have done.
How long have you owned this dog?: The original owner had her for 5 and a half years. As the next door neighbor, I've known the dog for 4 years, and he gave her to me in late November to rehome.
Why is the dog being given up?: Maxie has been neglected for years. When my neighbor told me that he was moving and either abandoning her or taking her to the Yolo County shelter, I offered to take her and rehome her. I have feral cats that I feed in my back yard, so I cannot keep Maxi myself. Also she needs exercise and a family and I cannot provide that.
— She has First visit for all vaccines and heart worm tests on December 21 and second visit on January 11, 2020, for boosters. No exam, but vet said her teeth were great.
— Maxie has been terribly neglected in a backyard environment only, never allowed in the house.. no affection. Maxie has known me as I've given her treats etc. through the fence, but despite that she is quickly friendly and wants to please. She took very quickly to the woman who is helping me and was surprisingly tolerant of us handling her, getting her into a car, taking her for shots and a walk. She is super sweet.
Check the words that best describe your dog.: FRIENDLY, SHY, ACTIVE, PLAYFUL, SMART, AFFECTIONATE
Is the dog currently on vaccinations?: Yes
Date of last heartworm test?: 12/21/2019
Heartworm test was:: Negative
Has the dog been previously bred?: No
Date of last fecal exam for parasites?: 12/21/2019
Fecal exam results?: Negative
If yes, please describe in as much detail as possible: She's untrained on leash. Just a few walks and she's getting it. She's very excited to be in new environments and very strong. We have not observed any behavior problems that basic training wouldn't correct.
Does the dog get along with:: Dog-Friendly
Please elaborate on your dogs interactions with other dogs in detail: Our experience is limited. Former owner didn't walk her, or have her interact with other dogs. She was inquisitive at mobile vet site, waiting in line with both large and small dogs. Curious but no aggression. Body language was not submissive or defensive. On walks, she is curious, non reactive to dog and cats. She has never lived with dog or cats before. She seemed to quickly trust both me and Judy who is helping me. When she saw another dog, she would look at us as if to say, "wow":)
Does your dog have handling sensitivities? How is your dog meeting strangers?: She met my friend's adult daughter and grandson and was friendly and sweet. After a few minutes, we allowed the three year old to extend his hand, and Maxie licked it and was gentle. A month ago, she seemed shy, but her confidence is growing.
Does the dog like children?: Yes
Are there children in the home?: Yes
What are their ages?: There are three children in her former home..two under five. Maxie would get excited and jump on them, scratching them, so they weren't allowed to play with her.
Where does the dog sleep?: Former owner had igloo on side of house away from family room. Maxie chose to sleep in an uncovered concrete patio corner next to the family room. She had no blanket because "she tore it up."
Where do you keep your dog: Currently in back yard.
How does the dog react to being left alone?: She was left alone 24-7, until I took her.
Please list any particular fears your dog has.: Fireworks.
Desrcibe any training the dog has, tricks it knows, and any experience with a trainer.:With treats, she seems to know sit, although she is so excited, she has trouble staying. Definitely tries to please. Adjusting to leash walking very well.
Does the dog have any known health problems?: No
Does the dog like riding in the car?: Yes
What is the dog's favorite : She loves chewy bones and dog treats. Her only toy in back yard was metal water bowl:(
What does the dog like?: Human interaction. Loved ride in car, although she was nervous at first (may have been her first ride)
Is the dog a digger?: No
Is there anything else you can share that is special, unusual, or endearing about your dog that will help the new owners?: She does not appear to be a runner . .gate has been open a few times, and she stays put. She is very affectionate with handling and very treat oriented. Seems very smart and wants to please. Craves socializing with humans. She's an attractive dog that would do well with an active household and patient owners, perhaps experienced with this breed. Sweet disposition, even during confusing and new experiences.
— Sadly, 24 hours alone in the back yard has been her routine. Fed once a day. I have given her treats and talked to her through a fence when I am outside.
An ideal home would be one with older children (over 8-9), an active family who may have another dog. Someone who's may have had this or a similar breed, who is patient and experienced with dogs. An owner who would train or take Maxie to training and patiently house break her so that she can be inside with her family. Maxie has so much potential and just needs someone who will treat her the way she deserves.