Shelby

Shelby is a 6-month-old, spayed female Shepherd/Hound/Terrier mix who currently weighs 39 pounds. She's expected to be a large dog when fully grown and has a distinctive long body shape. Shelby is a happy, goofy, and affectionate puppy with a playful spirit, bringing warmth and joy wherever she goes. She's curious, eager to learn, and deeply connected to her people, making every moment special.

Shelby was rescued along with her mom and sister from a shelter in San Antonio, Texas, after spending 40 days there. She has since thrived in her foster home and is currently residing in Washougal, Washington, where meet-and-greets are available.

Ideal Home

Shelby would thrive in an active home that enjoys a dog's companionship and attention, is patient with puppy training, and desires an affectionate family member. Whether it's hiking, walking, playing in the yard, or simply spending time together, Shelby wants to be included. She enjoys the company of other dogs and may benefit from having a canine companion, though she can succeed as an only dog if her social and activity needs are met.

Ongoing Health

Shelby is a healthy puppy.

Training & Support

Shelby is still learning, as is expected of any puppy. She is house-training and has made significant progress; she now goes regularly and reliably when taken outside. She shows subtle wandering behaviors indoors when she needs to go, and with consistency, she is expected to master house-training quickly. Shelby sleeps through the night in her crate and tolerates it, but she prefers to be near her people and other dogs. She may bark briefly when crated during the day but will settle, especially when left alone. She should not be crated excessively, as she is social and happiest when included in daily life. Shelby eats enthusiastically and would benefit from a slow feeder. She shows no food guarding toward people and is comfortable with hands in her bowl. Any mild growling has only occurred with her sister and appears related to puppy competition for attention rather than true resource guarding. She has had no issues with toys or treats around other dogs. Shelby walks nicely on a harness and does not pull, though she enjoys stopping to smell her surroundings. She is easygoing on walks and continues to gain confidence in new environments. She initially struggled with stairs but now confidently goes up and down on her own. Shelby loves other dogs and has classic, age-appropriate puppy energy, playing hard and resting hard. Her play style starts high-energy and settles into a moderate pace, and she enjoys fetch. She adjusts her play appropriately with dogs of various sizes, reads canine cues well, and respects boundaries. She may need continued guidance simply because she is young and enthusiastic, but her dog-to-dog skills are promising. On leash, she is friendly and excited to see other dogs. She has not lived with cats but has been around a bird, showing curiosity without aggression. Shelby has lived with older children (ages 14, 16, and 19) and does wonderfully with them, being affectionate, playful, and gentle. She would likely do well with younger children, provided the family understands puppy behavior and is patient with training and supervision. Shelby rides well in the car and generally stays settled in the back seat. Like most puppies, she is curious and may chew on interesting objects if left unattended. She sometimes barks at passing people or dogs from the car window. Shelby needs continued basic training. She has already learned to sit, walks nicely on a harness, and plays appropriately with toys and bones. She loves sniffing and would likely enjoy scent-based activities or classes.

Application Details:

• Applications start by contacting us through Wags.
• We are a volunteer-run rescue and ask that applicants are serious about the adoption process.
• If someone other than yourself is part of the decision-making process, please ensure they are on board before applying.
• Our process includes an application, a potential phone interview, a video call with the foster home, virtual home visits, and personal and vet reference checks.
• Transport is included in the adoption donation.

Transporation

Shelby is currently in Washougal, Washington, and is available for meet-and-greets. Transports run every few weeks and she will be on the next available transport once approved. Transport is included in the adoption donation.