Description
How big? Medium (short but 17kg)
How old? Adult (around five years)
Male or female? Male
Living with kids? I can live with teenagers
Living with dogs? I’m looking for a home without other dogs
Resident dog required? No
Living with cats? I’m looking for a home without cats
Where can I live? I’d like a patient home outside of the city with a garden
Where am I from? Cyprus, now in Wiltshire, Chippenham
About Shelby
Shelby is a five year old mixed breed pup originally rescued from Cyprus. He is now unfortunately looking for a new home through no fault of his own. Sadly, the arrival of a new baby has meant his family don’t have enough time to dedicate to his needs and training.
Shelby arrived in the UK four years ago after he was found as a stray. He is a lively, loyal and affectionate dog with a lot of personality. At home, with people he knows, he’s calm, gentle and loves nothing more than curling up on the sofa after a day filled with play and treats. He is highly food motivated and you’ll have his full attention the moment a treat bag rustles! He also loves his toys, especially tennis balls (you’ll need two!) and anything he can tug. He’s happy being left on his own for a few hours and doesn’t chew or cry, always greeting you with a wagging tail when you return.
Shelby is well housetrained and knows a range of cues including paw, lie down, spin, touch and even “go to your bed”. He loves to learn and responds well to reward based training. Snacks are the answer to his heart. While Shelby is affectionate and eager to please, he also has areas that need continued work and understanding, particularly when it comes to other dogs.
Shelby can be reactive on walks when encountering other dogs. He will often bark or lunge, although with patient, consistent training this has improved over time. He’s now able to pass some dogs at a closer distance without reacting, which is a huge improvement from when he first arrived in the UK. He walks best on a halti, which helps him feel more secure and manageable. While his reactivity still needs ongoing support, it’s something his current family have been able to manage with a good routine and awareness. They have also worked with behaviourists in the past which has contributed to their success, although more recently they’ve been working independently. For a new adopter, we would definitely suggest working with a local behaviourist whilst building up that initial trust bond.
In the house, Shelby can be excitable when guests arrive or if the doorbell rings, sometimes barking and jumping at the front door or window. This behaviour has been partly addressed with training, but he’ll need continued reinforcement and boundaries in his new home. Once visitors have settled, Shelby relaxes and enjoys their company. He’s never shown aggression and is super human oriented. He’s very enthusiastic and with familiar faces, he’s calm and affectionate.
Shelby has not lived with other dogs or cats, and he would be happiest in a pet free home. He’s not suited to life with cats, as he has a tendency to chase. He could live with older children or teenagers who are confident and respectful around dogs, especially as his excitement could be overwhelming for little ones, particularly in smaller homes.
What Shelby really needs is a calm, consistent home environment with experienced owners who are willing to continue his training, offer plenty of structure, and help him feel secure. He’d benefit from access to a secure garden and would love regular visits to enclosed fields where he can enjoy some off lead freedom away from other dogs.
Shelby has made huge strides since his early days, and while he’s still a work in progress, he’s also a loving, entertaining and loyal companion. He has plenty of energy, but he also knows how to relax at home. He’s the kind of dog who thrives when given clear boundaries, ongoing encouragement, and plenty of time with his people.
If you’re looking for a bright, bouncy companion and you’re happy to invest in continued training, Shelby will repay you with loyalty, affection, and an endless supply of tail wags.