Although he may not look it, this 80lb cuddlebug would gladly spend evenings laying by your side as you read in bed. Ever since my friends met him Leone has earned the nickname “Batman,” and I guess you can see why. Yes, his ears remain a great wonder, and if you’re thinking they’re cute, he can probably hear that too! Being a Shepherd/Lab mix, he has always had a reserve of energy if needed. He’s got patches of white fur, running from his squishy nose down his fluffy chest and even to his white tipped tail. With so much time spent with him, it is hard to imagine life without him. To think all the memories made, would not exist if he wasn’t there for me one special day about 6 years ago.
During free adoption week at petsmart, I walked into the visiting room, and my ears met with the whining and yipping of a whole litter. At about 10 weeks old, they were climbing on top of each other, as this little boy laid alone in an opposite corner. He sat up and quietly looked at me as I knelt down. And when I reached out to pet him, those lonely eyes closed and found comfort just as I had. I knew at that moment, we’d have a bond to share through thick and thin. The puppy picture is the day I met and adopted him. Leone is up to date with all vaccines, neutered and microchipped.
Leone can match any energy, either calm or active. He is highly affectionate! So expect licks and him wanting you to pet him after waking up, returning from home work, or even after feeding him. One of his favorite activities is playing with his prized toy, the yellow Tuffy Jr Bone. He enjoys walks, exploring, or even relaxing and cuddles. Leone is shy around other dogs, has no experience with cats and is only recommended for experienced dog owners with no children or unknown visitors.
Leone can be protective and will take time to warm up to you as he can be on edge. If you are patient and willing to nurture past his behavior, you will find a boy that is attached to your hip.
Leone highly prefers free roam at home rather than any time spent in a crate. He has improved a lot with “heel” during walks and knows how to use mess mats/dog pads if need be. He signals the need for restroom time by laying on his stomach and sometimes looking at you expectantly. Usually if you say, “Pee pee poopoo?” he’ll respond by getting up or whimpering, so bring him outside soon! As far as commands, he can be a bit hyper at times, so you might have to be stern and point as you give commands such as “Sit. Stay. Down. Lay Down. No. Come here.” He can respond to snapping of your fingers to bring him to you and get his attention. He is really receptive to “Are youuu hungry? Hungry? Are youuu thirsty? Thirsty?” Sometimes if you rest your hands on your hips in an expectant way, he will sit and look up at you. It pairs well with “What do you do?” Usually this can work well prior to a meal or preparing to put on his leash to take him outside. He sometimes responds well to “good boy” and petting though this can make him more hyper so you might have to calm him down again.
The ideal home would be a well experienced and patient dog owner with familiarity of dogs that need behavioral support. With Leone’s shyness of other dogs, him being the only pet is preferred though I have seen him grow accustomed to some dogs easily. Given Leon’s demeanor, it’s best that the home has no children and low visiting. He is house broken, so as long as some precautions are taken to secure the home and dog proof it, he won’t be clawing or chewing into anything.
Due to severe personal life circumstances, I cannot continue future ownership and care of my lively boy. Through no fault of his own am I looking to rehome him, and I pray that a suitable owner will be found.
If you’re seeking a reading time cuddlebug, sleeping companion, four legged nature trail friend, a playful goofy little tornado to liven up your living space, or that bundle of joy to come back home to after a long day, look no further. This boy will effortlessly provide and more. All you have to give in return is your love, patience and care.
Apply to adopt Leone today!
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If you have a specific question about Leone, then please email newdigs@dallaspetsalive.org. If you are interested in applying to adopt this pet, fill out the application at the link above.
Leone is participating in the Dallas Pets Alive rehoming program. All of the medical, behavioral and other information about this pet was provided by the pet’s owner. Dallas Pets Alive encourages all adopters to verify the information prior to adoption. Please note that Dallas Pets Alive (DPA) is acting as intermediary to connect prospective adopters with individuals wanting to rehome their pets. DPA is not liable for any information provided about this pet and the adoption transaction is purely between the pet owners and adopter. DPA is not responsible for any damages, injuries or adoption returns as a result of any adoption transaction. DPA! is not responsible or liable for any animals involved in its New Digs program. DPA! acts solely as a facilitator of adoption between the animal’s surrenderer and potential adopter and makes no claims as to the accuracy of the animal’s medical or behavioral history provided by the surrenderer.
