Junior Bear the Tongue Out Sweetheart

Junior Bear honestly looks like someone accidentally combined a sad old grandpa, a baby polar bear, and Sid from Ice Age into one dog and somehow... it works perfectly! This poor guy was in rough shape when he was first found, but watching him transform has been so special. His coat is already coming back in beautifully, and while we can't guarantee exactly how fluffy he'll end up being, we can confidently say he is becoming cuter by the day. Between the permanently expressive facial expressions, the little tongue that sticks out of his mouth like he always has something important to say, and the shy gentle personality hiding underneath it all, Junior is one of those dogs that completely sneaks up on your heart. He is believed to be a Great Pyrenees/Lab mix, approximately 6 years old and around 50 lbs. He's a very sweet, gentle soul, but he's definitely more of a slow burn with people and new environments. He needs a little time to settle in, observe, and realize he's safe before fully opening up. Baby talking him works wonders! Tell him he's handsome, speak softly, and let him approach you on his own terms, and you can watch him start melting. Once he warms up, you'll see glimpses of his inner puppy, and it's adorable. He'll start asking for affection, leaning into attention, and showing off a sweet, cuddly side that feels incredibly rewarding to earn.

Ideal Home

Junior would do best with lower to medium energy, respectful dogs that will give him space to acclimate naturally and won't overwhelm him socially. He has also done wonderfully with small dogs. He was respectful and appropriate around the house cat, Biggie, and did not chase him. If you have a cat, we can arrange for Junior to have a sleepover with a cat upon request. He would be perfectly content living a slower-paced lifestyle filled with comfy naps, quiet companionship, sniffing around the yard, and peaceful walks. He could potentially do okay in a quieter apartment, townhome, duplex, or condo setting, but having access to some kind of small yard would help him settle in more comfortably while building confidence.

Ongoing Health

No specific health conditions are mentioned in the listing.

Training & Support

Junior walks very easily on leash and has the cutest little old man stroll. He likes to casually meander along at his own pace and seems to do best when allowed to lead the walk a little bit himself. Too much leash pressure tends to overwhelm him, and then he freezes like a statue. Less pressure and more patience is key with him. He likes calm energy and slow introductions. Junior needs someone patient, understanding, and willing to go slow while trust is being built. He can become uncomfortable with too much touch too quickly, but when approached calmly and respectfully, he builds trust beautifully. He is crate trained and quiet in the home.

Application Details:

• Applications start by contacting us through Wags.

Transporation

Junior is located in Texas. We facilitate adoptions nationwide using our rescue run USDA certified transport system, ensuring every pet travels safely and comfortably with 24/7 care. Our transport includes drop-off locations in WA, UT, OR, ID, VA, PA, OH, NY, CT, VT, TN, KY, WI, MN, IL, WI, and Canada (pick up in Bellingham, WA, Buffalo, NY, or Brattleboro, VT for Canadian adopters). You will have the opportunity to track their journey in real time, see photo updates, learn fun facts, and connect with fellow adopters and fosters through our private Facebook event page!