Leonidas

Meet Leonidas, or Leo as his friends call him! This stunning boy is ready to rule the roost in your home. He's a fun, active guy with a lot of love to give.

Leo is an approximately 3-year-old male, weighing 20 pounds and is full grown. He's already neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines. Thankfully, he's heartworm negative and on monthly preventions. We're not entirely sure of his breed mix, but he resembles a large Pomeranian, possibly with some Keeshond or Spitz in his lineage, accounting for his size. Whatever his mix, he's a very handsome fellow!

Leo was surrendered by his family and did not do well in the shelter environment. He was scared and lashing out, which is typical for dogs in a frightening place away from their families. Once he was in a foster home and had a few days to adjust, he blossomed into a sweet, happy boy.

Ideal Home

Leo needs a home that can keep his body and mind busy. He loves bones, toys, and games! In-home playing, games, training, and puzzle toys are a must, especially with the heat making outdoor exercise challenging. He's the perfect size for someone wanting a spunky, playful dog that isn't huge. He is very loyal and will want to follow you everywhere. Leo is an alpha dog and needs to be the head dog in the home or be the only dog. He does well with slow introductions to submissive dogs that don't challenge him. He is not fostered with kids, but we think he will need only older children (12+) in the home who are well-behaved around dogs, respectful, and do not treat him like a toy. Leo needs time to adjust to new people and places and can be sensitive about his ears. He has not been around cats and shows excited energy towards bunnies, so we believe he will likely chase cats and probably won't be the best fit for a home with them.

Ongoing Health

Leo came to us with kennel cough and has since recovered. He has found his voice and is dedicated to vocally fighting off the kitchen mixer and vacuum. He barks at noises and door knocks. This vocalization is not terrible but can be loud at times. If you're not willing to accept this about him, please consider a different dog. Dogs with Leo's coat type need a lot of brushing and care; they are not meant to be shaved, so proper coat maintenance is a must. If you're unwilling to upkeep his coat, he's not the dog for you.

Training & Support

Leo is doing pretty well with his training so far. He's done well on car rides and does not get sick. He did good with limited leash walking, though we don't take him out much due to the heat. He is crate trained and really likes his kennel as a safe place, using it randomly to relax and sleeping crated overnight. Leo is fully potty trained, but he still marks his territory indoors at times. This may be influenced by scents from rabbit cages and other dogs using puppy pads in the vicinity. He has not shown any issues with people or other dogs regarding sharing treats or toys, though he is fed separately to ensure compatibility.

Application Details:

• Applications start by contacting us through Wags.
• Vet and home checks are required.

Transporation

Leo is located in Hampton, VA. He will need to be adopted within a 2-hour drive radius.