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Health & Fitness

Mutts Matter: Dashing Dougie

Meet Dougie, a spirited pup who can be your jogging partner, snuggle buddy, and most loyal companion.

Hi Everyone! My name is Doug, but my friends call me "Dougie." I'm about 2.5 years old and weigh close to 70lbs... I could probably stand to lose a few pounds as the winter storms have wreaked havoc with my workout schedule. I'm a handsome pup with a unique brindle coat that has red undertones, pretty hazel eyes, and a big bully smile that will melt your heart. I'm a sweet and loyal dog who is devoted to my person, but I'm also a confident dog who needs a capable and assertive handler to lead me.

It's been a tough past year, and I was feeling a little sad over losing my human again. My original owner turned me into the shelter (along with my sister) because he was moving. I was with him almost two years, so I still don't understand why that happened. This news of my surrender shocked one of MMR's veterinary partners, who had known me as their star client and one of their favorite pups. My former 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 my vet found out that I had been turned into the shelter to be put to sleep, they called in MMR to rescue me. I’m thankful that I had a guardian angel looking out for me, though 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 that way. 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 me, and was not willing to work through the adjustment issues. Mutts Matter thinks there was some probably some bias towards my breed, but my owner decided not to commit to training to make it work... so here I am again in search of my new person.

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My former dad described me as "a lovable pup who thinks he's a little lap dog." I like to cuddle on the couch and be with my person wherever they go. I have a good amount of energy too, and love going on daily walks, and would make an excellent running partner. I love to run, and my face lights up as the wind is whipping past me. I’m mostly good on the leash, but will pull on occasion if I see a squirrel I think needs tending to. I'm a strong dog and need an experienced owner who is committed to my exercise and socialization, and who can handle a strong dog like me. I also need an active lifestyle, and would be fine with or without another dog in the home.

I'm a pretty social pup, but can play a little rough so I do better with larger dogs, as smaller dogs tend to be a little intimidated by my size and style of rough-house play. I know several commands, and because I'm very treat-motivated and want to please, I’ll do great with training. 

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I’m protective of my owner, so while I'm not aggressive towards kids, I'm not the best fit for a family with kids who may not have the same sense of boundaries that I do. In any situation, my owners will need to be confident and have an active leadership role in my life. 

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

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

Follow Mutts Matter on Facebook to learn more about us and see new pups coming into the rescue!

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