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t first, but once you’ve earned his trust, you will discover a loyal and devoted companion with a heart as big as his smile. He feels most at ease in calm, low-traffic environments and enjoys walks in peaceful, quiet places. A secure yard with minimal neighbor-dog activity would make him feel safe and relaxed. Gunther is still learning gentler play manners, but with patience and kindness, he blossoms into an affectionate and playful friend.
Gunther would be happiest with a patient adopter who understands the needs of a sensitive soul and can provide a calm, stable environment. He would thrive in active households with opportunities for exercise and play. Whether you’re a family with older kids, a senior looking for companionship, or an experienced adopter who loves to train and bond, Gunther will meet you with unwavering loyalty. Gunther can live harmoniously with cats and would thrive in a home that values love, structure, and positive interaction..
Back Story
Gunther’s litter of nine was surrendered to Pets Return Home in January of 2024. They are all big dogs and will reach 90 to 100 pounds. DNA results: 76% German Shepherd. Seven of the nine were adopted - Gunther and his brother Ari remain. They are cautious of new people due to under-socialization at the ranch. They are friendly after a short time of meeting new people. They are astute and will make great protective companions for any family. They enjoy playing and going to the river. An experienced German Shepherd Dog handler is required for adoption.
Behavior Profile
This gentle boy is a quick learner who thrives on praise and enjoys training games that challenge his mind. He loves to work alongside you, whether it’s playing fetch in the yard, sharing quiet moments of affection, or curling up as your personal couch companion. He’s crate trained, leash trained, and guaranteed to keep you smiling. He may bark at unfamiliar things outside or while on leash, but is quiet and well-mannered otherwise.
Positive Attributes:
· Loves quiet moments and gentle affection.
· Always up for a game of fetch or a romp in the yard.
· Professional snuggler and couch companion.
· Quick learner who enjoys training games.
· Loves to work with you and thrives on praise.
· Can live harmoniously with cats.
· Loves being part of a family.
· Already has great house manners.
· Guaranteed to keep you smiling.
Behavior Challenges
· Shy at first, but blooms into a loyal companion once trust is built.
· Best walked in low-traffic areas where they can relax and enjoy.
· May need solid fencing or distance from high-traffic areas.
· Learning gentler play manners.
If you cannot adopt right now, will you help by sponsoring monthly?
You can help sanctuary, adoptable, in-treatment, and new-intake dogs by giving $10 or more each month. Your charitable support helps provide food, medications, veterinary care, training, and love our dogs need while they wait for a family, heal, or live in the sanctuary. Thank you for considering sustaining our mission and lives.
Sponsor or donate: .petsreturnhome/donation-portal
About Pets Return Home Because every dog deserves to be home.
Pets Return Home is a no-kill sanctuary, rehabilitation center, and adoption center dedicated to giving E-listed, homeless, abandoned, abused, and neglected dogs a real chance at life.
Located in Northern Arizona, we provide an enriching free-range environment where dogs learn to trust, play, and rediscover what it means to be a dog. We specialize in dogs who are often overlooked in traditional shelters: the behaviorally challenged, medically complex, and senior dogs.
What Sets Us Apart
We have saved 1200+ dogs once considered too “broken” to live through our rehabilitation and adoption programs. All of the dogs free-range where they play, learn boundaries, and form healthy bonds, as well as have full access to our home, where they learn home living, manners, and family love. Learn more: .petsreturnhome
Why Adopt
When you adopt from Pets Return Home, you save at least two lives: the dog you bring home and the dog who now has space to enter our rehabilitation program.
Adoption Process
· Browse our dogs at Adoptable Dogs
· Complete the Adoption Application
· Participate in a phone interview
· Complete a Hold Harmless Agreement, Adoption Agreement, and make an Appointment
· Bring your family, friends, and household dogs to meet your potential new companion
· Pay the Adoption Fee, receive the paperwork, and bring your new family member home