Oz is a sweet, sensitive 5½-year-old miniature poodle weighing about 12 pounds. After spending over five years in a large-scale breeding organization, he is learning how to feel safe and confident in the wider world. He has made wonderful progress in foster care and is looking for a patient family committed to supporting his continued growth.

Ideal Home

Oz needs a quiet, patient home with experience caring for timid, shut-down dogs or dogs retired from large-scale breeding operations. He is best suited to an adult-only home; teenagers may be considered. A well-balanced dog of similar size and energy would be welcome as a role model, though it is not required. He currently lives successfully with other dogs and is listed as good with cats, though his foster family has not formally tested him with them.

Oz enjoys walks and is a wonderful walking companion. He is a flight risk and must wear a martingale collar at all times. He is sensitive around strangers and does not yet seek affection, so his family will need to respect his boundaries while gently encouraging him to build confidence.

Ongoing Health

Oz arrived with an ear hematoma and significant yeast buildup; both were treated and his ears were thoroughly cleaned. He also received a dental cleaning to remove tartar buildup. He tested negative for heartworm, is up to date on required vaccinations, is neutered, and is microchipped. His coat requires regular grooming.

Training & Support

Oz is crate trained, house trained, and sleeps quietly overnight. He enjoys relaxing on the couch with his foster siblings and has learned the household routine. He can manage a full flight of stairs with encouragement and is becoming more comfortable in the car, where he must be secured in a crate or a seat with a leash. He does not yet signal when he needs to go outside, so his new family will need to provide frequent opportunities outdoors. Post-adoption training is required.

Application Details

• Oz needs adopters experienced with frightened or timid dogs who can balance patience and space with daily encouragement.
• His family should have a quiet, adult-focused home and be committed to helping him gain confidence over time.
• Applicants should describe their experience with timid dogs and how they would support Oz through new experiences.
• Applications begin by contacting the provider through Wags.