Virgil

At first sight, you are sure to be smitten with this super sweet bulldog mix. His body is too cute for words! Virgil is about 5-years-old and weighs 53 pounds. He loves to get belly rubs and show off his butt wiggle. He has been waiting awhile for his person and would love nothing better than to start his new life with you. Virgil has the traits of an American Bulldog, but somehow acts more like a water dog. He has an incredible love for water, especially when he can swim out to retrieve a thrown tennis ball or stick. It’s one game he never tires of. We like to say he’s a natural mer-man ‘wading’ for his forever family!

Virgil is rather low maintenance. He is fulfilled by outdoor time, observing nature, and simply being with his people. He also enjoys walks and is good on the leash, though playing in water really makes his day. He has a funny way of turning meal time into fun time by batting around his Rolly Kong for kibble. Although he likes activity, he also has a lovely mellow side and enjoys quiet time. Among his many qualities, he’s also a dapper dude. Would you believe he loves being pampered and brushed? Virgil is very food-motivated and enjoys pleasing you. Since he is wary of strangers, his love of treats comes in very handy when introducing him to new people. If someone new approaches with a treat and lets him make the first move, voila! He’s a happy boy who will sit, lay down, or shake hands with you for more treats.

Virgil has a sad background, but with the resilience of a champ he overcame abandonment. As a stray, he landed in a shelter with no ID tag, no microchip, very fearful, and left unclaimed. Because the staff gave him time and tender loving care, he started coming out of his shell. Soon after, Virgil attended a basic obedience class and then transitioned to a foster home where he is learning what a good, safe home is all about. Virgil now has a bouncy puppy-like strut and each day more and more of his personality comes through! He works with his foster mother daily. She reinforces all he learned in training and gives him new challenges as well.

Ideal Home

Virgil needs an adopter to continue providing direction and confidence-building activities. We know Virgil will thrive in a stable forever home with an experienced person or family who will help him recognize how special he really is. In this type of environment, he is such an easy dog. He just needs time to know things are A-OK so he won’t be fearful and anxious. With your gentle time and patience, you will earn his trust. He doesn’t do well with other dogs or cats, but he would be ok with older kids with dog experience. Since he alerts you to noise, he is not good for apartment or condo/townhouse living or tight neighborhoods. Ideal perks are a fenced yard and water access!

Ongoing Health

No ongoing health concerns were mentioned in the listing.

Training & Support

Virgil is very food-motivated and enjoys pleasing you. He knows how to sit, lay down, and shake hands. He has attended basic obedience classes and continues to work with his foster mother on training and new challenges. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.

Application Details:

• Applications start by contacting us through Wags.
• The adoption fee is $500.

Transportation

Virgil is being fostered in Gloucester, MA.