Onyx

Onyx is a 5-year-old dog who is friendly, goofy, good-natured, and loves to be a couch potato with occasional bursts of energy. His adoption fee has been generously covered by a community member! He previously lived with grade-school children who adored him, and he currently resides with teenagers. Onyx would do best as the only pet in the home, as he can sometimes exhibit resource-guarding behaviors with other dogs. He might be okay with cats, but only if they are independent, outdoor cats who can hold their own.

Onyx is about 70lbs of pure muscle, but he still thinks he's a lap dog! He enjoys spending time with his people, often lounging on the couch or gazing out the window. He can get excited when meeting new people and may jump up. His foster family has been working with him on "off" and "down" commands, and he has shown significant improvement over the past year.

This smart pup is house-trained and uses a doggy doorbell to let you know when he needs to go outside. He knows commands like "sit," "shake," "touch," "watch," and "wait." He walks well on a leash with a Gentle Leader-style harness. Onyx does have a strong prey drive and will pull if he spots anything furry or other dogs. His foster family manages this by rewarding him with multiple treats when he looks at another dog or furry creature and then redirects his attention back to them.

Onyx loves to relax in the sun or on the couch. He's enjoyed exploring his foster family's backyard, chasing squirrels and rabbits. He generally prefers lounging over long walks, making him a perfect companion for those seeking a dog who enjoys a more relaxed lifestyle.

Onyx has been diagnosed with bilaterally torn cranial cruciate ligaments. However, both legs appear to have scarred in a way that allows him to run and play in the yard without pain or limping. While both knees show some loss of normal range of motion and bony remodeling, he bears full weight on both limbs and jumps up readily with no apparent discomfort. He is currently managed medically and enjoys a good quality of life. Underdog is in the process of training to offer surgery for this condition. If you are interested in Underdog providing this surgery, understanding they are not board-certified surgeons and are in a learning process, they can offer it at no cost. Alternatively, you can continue with medical management or seek surgical services from another clinic at your own expense.

Ideal Home

Onyx would do best as the only pet in the home. He may be okay with cats that are independent and used to fending for themselves.

Ongoing Health

Onyx has bilaterally torn cranial cruciate ligaments in both knees. While he currently shows no pain or limping and is managed medically, further surgical options may be considered.

Training & Support

Onyx is working on "off" and "down" commands and has made good progress. He is house-trained and uses a doggy doorbell. He walks well on a leash but can pull when he sees prey animals or other dogs; this is managed with positive reinforcement.

Application Details:

• Applications start by contacting us through Wags.

Transportation:

Onyx is currently in a foster home in the Madison area.