Mutts Matter: Dapper Doug

Hi, Everyone! Look at me: the new and improved Dougie, debuting my slim summer physique. I’ve been exercising with my foster mom and getting in tiptop shape for my new family. I really hope they find me soon. I’ve been waiting patiently and love my foster parents so much, but am ready to find my forever home.

As you can see from my pictures, I'm a handsome American Staffordshire Terrier mix with a unique brindle coat that has red undertones, pretty hazel eyes, and a big bully smile that will melt your heart. I'm 3 years old, weigh about 65lbs, and am the perfect age – old enough to be calm and out of puppy stage, but young enough to be active and make a great walking buddy. I'm a sweet and loyal dog who is devoted to my person, and just need to find the right confident owner to let me be their most faithful companion.

The past year has been pretty tough. My original owner turned me into the shelter (along with my sister) because he was moving. I was with him almost two years, and I still don't understand why he abandoned me. The news of my surrender shocked my veterinarian, who had known me as a star patient and one of their favorite pups. My owner had been a regular client, and spent a lot of time and money training me, taking care of me, and socializing me... it just didn't make sense. When the people at my vet’s office found out that I had been turned into the shelter, they called in Mutts Matter to rescue me. I’m so thankful that I had a guardian angel looking out for me; unfortunately my sister was not so lucky.

I wasn't in my foster home long before a new adopter came along and wanted me to be his companion. I was so excited and happy when he chose me, and really believed this would be my forever home. My new dad was young, active, and a big fan of the bully breed – it was perfect. Unfortunately, things didn't work out as planned. I was with him almost three months, and did my best to be a good dog for him. We would go on runs and to the park together, and he was my best friend. Then along came a new girlfriend who didn't have the same appreciation for my breed, and was not willing to work through the adjustment issues, so here I am again in search of my new person. 

My foster mom describes me as "a lovable goof who thinks he's a lap dog." I like to cuddle on the couch with her and want to be with my person wherever they go. I’m always up for a new adventure, and like going on car rides, daily walks, and would make an excellent running partner. I’m mostly good on the leash, but will pull on occasion if I see a squirrel that I think needs tending to. I need an active lifestyle and love to run and play. You can see the joy in my face as the wind is whipping past me when I run around. I'm also a strong dog and need an experienced owner who is committed to my exercise and socialization, and who can handle a big pup like me. 

I would be fine with or without another dog in the home. I'm pretty social, but I do play a little rough, so I would fit best with a larger, confident dog, as smaller dogs tend to be a little intimidated by my size and style of play. There are exceptions to that rule though, like the little Chihuahua who lives in my building and bosses me around. It’s a little embarrassing, but once I know who is in charge, I fall right into line. 

I’m protective of my owner, so while I'm not aggressive towards kids, I'm not the best fit for a family with younger kids who may not have the same sense of boundaries that I do. In any situation, my owners will need to be confident and take an active leadership role in my life. I know several commands, and because I'm very treat-motivated and want to please, I’ll do great with training. Preference will be given to adopters who have large dog or bully breed experience.

If you’re looking for a sidekick, I'm your dog – fun, active, loyal, and super handsome too!

To learn more about Doug, go to the Mutts Matter Adoption Page and fill out an application, or you can contact Suzanne at suzanne@muttsmatterrescue.com.