Nick

Puppy Nick is now 4 months of age. He came to us a little over a month ago. After working closely with little Nick, we discovered that he had some emotional issues to deal with before he could become a nice little puppy. Working closely with our experienced trainer, we learned that this pup had likely been taken from his mother and litter-mates way too early. Nick was having moments when he would not respond well to bigger dogs, would play exceedingly rough, and would actually growl if restrained or asked to do something he did not want to do.

To help Nick learn proper behavior and to help him establish healthy relationships with volunteers and other handlers, puppy Nick went into an intensive few weeks of one-on-one training for a few hours a day. Additionally, he was guided through proper socialization exercises with our top-notch trainer so that he could relate better to both people and other dogs.

Today, Nick will make a nice pet for someone who has had experience training and working with dogs. The shelter wants Nick to continue the great progress he has made which can happen in the right situation. He will do best in a home where training is ongoing and consistent. He needs love but equal parts of ongoing training will be essential for this pup.

As Nick has become more playful, and trusting, he has become a sweet little pup. He is exceedingly smart and nearly completely potty trained. Nick will likely not get bigger than 60 pounds. We prefer that Nick go to a family where there are no children or children that are age 14 and up. If someone works from home or there is an adult home part of the day, this would be ideal. Strong dog handling skills are essential for this pup to continue to grow into a well behaved loving mature dog. If you are interested in adopting Nick, visit the Mission Viejo Shelter and complete an adoption application.