Smiley Wiley The Hugging Smile Machine

Calling all Shepherd lovers, do we have a SPECIAL and AMAZING boy for you! Let's roll out the red carpet for this handsome fluffy guy named Smiley Wiley. First thing's first, look at how gorgeous he is! He is the definition of a showstopper, there's no doubt about that. Not only is he beautiful, he has a personality to match. Solid, athletic, loyal, down for whatever, and then happy to crash hard when the day's done. That's Smiley Wiley, built like the kind of dog who naturally looks right walking next to you.

Smiley Wiley is believed to be a German Shepherd mix approximately 1 year old and currently weighs 65 lbs. We would love for him to find a home with someone who has a little GSD experience under their belt, someone who gets their fun, loyal spirit and is ready for a loving, adventurous companion.

Have you ever met a dog that likes to hug? Well, never say never, because now you have! When we say Wiley gives hugs, we are not exaggerating. He seriously will hug you, and it's by far one of our favorite things about him. Truly, the biggest bear hugs you will have ever received or experienced. The hugs he gives will absolutely come in handy when you're having a bad day and you just need a hug. Wiley has you covered in that department; they will make your entire day.

Wiley is also great around other dogs and loves being a pack animal. He doesn't need a home with other dogs, but he clearly does well with them! When he finds a playmate, he plays like a total shepherd! Consistent with lighthearted games of chase, wrestling matches, and if you know shepherds, then you know they like to throw paws and love mouthy-type play. That is just how Wiley likes to play, and that is what we mean by "he plays like a typical GSD."

In a home, he would do great with a fun, happy, confident female that likes to play, enjoys rowdy play, and also a dog that appreciates the calmer hangout moments too. We actually believe Wiley would do best in a home with another dog. In new environments and situations, he can get a little nervous around things, even as little as his own shadow. Having another confident dog in the home will help guide him and build his confidence. When it comes to kitties, they are not for him; that GSD in him really says "No thanks!"

He thrives on confident leadership, responds incredibly well to structure, and bonds deeply with his person. He's smart and tuned in, already knows a solid set of commands. Wiley is very treat-motivated, too, and will do anything for a treat, but you also don't need one for him to listen or sit for you. He is super smart and will sit on a dime even if he thinks you have a treat. He already knows how to do so many things like sit, down, and wait. You could probably teach him to do so many other things, too. He loves to please, and when you are working with him, he is great about making eye contact. With the right training and guidance, there's nothing you can throw his way he wouldn't be able to do. Wiley would be the perfect adventure companion to take with you on walks, hikes, and could even make a fantastic running partner.

Yes, Wiley can be a super fun, active, adventurous guy, but he also has a calm side as well. He has no problem making himself feel right at home and will lay right on top of you if you let him. Who doesn't love GSD snuggles?! He seems to already have some level of understanding that playtime is an outside luxury. Of course, he will play indoors with a toy or tennis ball if you want him to, but he is really good about finding a cozy spot on the floor and settling in with his favorite toy and is perfectly content doing his own thing.

Wiley has spent plenty of time around younger children while he's out exploring and has done great with them. While he's good-natured and tolerant of the occasional squeal or quick movements from younger children, he tends to prefer the company of older kids. Older children, around 15 and up, are more in tune with his boundaries; they understand when he needs space and can respect his need for a little calm time. He also enjoys more engaging and thoughtful playtime in the yard with older kids, such as fetch and running around playing a game of tag. He would be great in a home with 1-2 kids ages 15 and up, and if you have grandchildren or friends that have younger kids that come and visit, Wiley will be completely happy with that too because it is not an everyday thing.

Wiley's dream home would have a big backyard where he can stretch those legs, smell all the smells, and a place where he can find that perfect spot in the grass to bake in the sun. He would do best with a semi-active family that wants to take their dog with them on hikes, maybe even are looking for a running partner, and also looking for a dog that likes to relax as well. He can certainly do both after he's had some form of mental stimulation. Wiley is the best of both worlds in our eyes.

Ideal Home

Smiley Wiley would do best with a family that has some German Shepherd experience. He would do best in a home with another confident dog to help guide him. He is not a fan of cats. He would do best with older children, around 15 and up, or in a home with 1-2 children ages 15 and up. A big backyard is preferred.

Ongoing Health

No ongoing health concerns noted.

Training & Support

Smiley Wiley responds well to structure and training. He knows basic commands like sit, down, and wait and is treat motivated. He can get nervous in new environments and situations, and having another confident dog will help him build confidence.

Application Details:

• Applications start by contacting us through Wags at wags.com.
• The adoption fee is $1200 and includes all vetting, transport, and microchip with lifetime registration.
• Adopters will have a video call with the pet before the adoption is finalized.
• A $87 surcharge applies due to rising transportation costs.

Transportation

Smiley Wiley is located in Texas. Transport is available nationwide via our rescue-run, USDA-certified transport system. Drop-off locations include WA, UT, OR, ID, VA, PA, OH, NY, CT, VT, TN, KY, WI, MN, IL, WI, and Canada. Canadian adopters can pick up in Bellingham, WA, Buffalo, NY, or Brattleboro, VT.