Available for Adoption - Dali (WA, USA)

Socialization: Dali is somewhat reserved/cautious at first when meeting new people, but gets out of his shell quickly. He has no issue with new people coming and going in his home or yard. He's great with other dogs. He's submissive, playful and respectful of other dogs' space if they don't want to play. He's been great with every dog I've seen him with and backs down immediately to dogs that are more dominant. Due to his high prey drive, he gets fixated on cats, but if the cat doesn't run, he'll eventually try to go up and greet them. Almost seems like he's just trying to figure out what they're all about. My cat is very dog-savvy, but I could see him being annoying to a cat that wants to be left alone. He doesn't want to harm them, though.

Training: Dali learns very quickly. He learned "sit" on the first day. He only had an accident in the house on day one. After that, he learned how to use the dog door and lets himself out to go potty. He does put his paws on the counter, but is easily corrected and it has improved since he's been here. I have not noticed any destructive behavior. He doesn't even really chew on his toys. The biggest thing to work on with him is recall. It's relatively reliable (once he knows you and are consistent with rewards), but becomes very selective if he's found a critter he wants to chase. This will definitely need work, but has improved since he's learned his surroundings and bonded more with me. He picks up on routines quickly. After morning feeding and potty, he's learned from the other dogs that we come in and relax for a bit until our first walk.

Activity requirements: Dali is high-energy. He loves running, playing, and exploring. He's very curious. I believe access to a fenced yard, daily walks (or jogs), a playful buddy in the home or visits to safe off-leash areas are important for him. He's so fun to watch running at full speed (which is FAST!). I've done a bit of leash training and he still needs work with focus and not pulling. He is very adaptable and eager to please those he's bonded to.

Fence requirements: Dali definitely needs a fenced yard. Especially in the beginning, while he's getting used to you and the layout of the area. Standard fence height is fine, as I have not seen him try to jump or climb a fence. Once he's bonded with hiw person, he doesn't have any interest in escaping.

Personality: Dali is so sweet. He likes hugs, and oftentimes will come up and put his head in your lap for comfort or reassurance. He likes snuggling close at bedtime. He has a gentle way about him. He isn't the wrecking ball type when he's excited. He's curious and fun to watch him explore. While it didn't seem like it at first meeting, after he's connected to you, he's a velcro dog. He wants to know where you are all the time and will follow you around the house and yard. He is high-energy and loves to play and run, but he can also relax and sleep until you're ready for a walk or trip to the dog park. I've also seen him able to entertain himself with a toy of he's bored, running and throwing it in the yard.

Health history: Dali is neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and on monthly heartworm prevention. His next leishmaniasis test is due in January 2027.

This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80.

Foster comments: Dali adjusted in his foster home so quickly, especially considering his long journey. He takes everything in stride and really wants to do the right thing. He's great in the car and has done really well with every other dog or person I've had him around. As with a lot of young setters, he has high prey drive and needs someone knowledgeable about being able to redirect him. He's already gotten better with that since he's been here. He has adorable mannerisms and he gets compliments everywhere he goes. He is food motivated, so having treats on you at all times has really helped with bond building and him checking in when out at parks etc. He has a very kind heart and is quick to learn what's expected of him and is easily corrected when told he's doing something he's not supposed to do. I also rarely hear him bark. An ideal home for Dali would be one where he doesn't have to spend too much time on his own, hopefully has a playful dog sibling, and gets time to explore the world with his person. He's a really special guy. A fenced yard and another dog in the home are required to adopt Dali.

Foster location: Arlington, WA

Transport note: We are able to arrange volunteer transport to get dogs from their foster home to their adopter as long as the adopter and the foster are within a 1,000 mile radius of each other and the adopter is located in the USA. If the adopter is more than 1,000 miles from the foster home, adoption would only be possible if the adopter is willing to drive the distance beyond the 1,000-mile transport limit. Long distance adoptions may also be possible if the adopter is willing to pay for a flight for getting their dog from the foster home to their location if the foster feels this is an appropriate arrangement for the specific dog. Canadian adopters would have to drive into the USA to pick up their dog, as we do not transport outside of the USA.