View more
ix is a sweet, playful, and endlessly entertaining little guy with a big personality packed into a compact body. Gus was found as a stray in Texas, and while he’s still learning the finer points of home life, he’s doing wonderfully with patience, consistency, and routine.
Gus is potty trained and bell trained to let you know when he needs to go outside—fair warning though, he loves being outdoors, so he may ring the bell just for fun! When it’s truly potty time, you’ll notice he rings with a bit more urgency. A fenced yard would be ideal for him, as he enjoys running, exploring, and showing off his impressive hops (including his adorable, Tigger-like bounce).
He’s a friendly, social boy who does great with people—he recently visited a feed mill and charmed everyone there. Gus has also done well around other animals. He currently coexists peacefully with a barn cat; while he was initially unsure, he now calmly observes without aggression or prey drive. Slow introductions are still recommended. He’s also been calm and curious around a horse from a distance, again showing no aggression. Because he enjoys canine companionship, Gus would likely thrive in a home with another confident, stable dog to play with and learn from.
Gus is crate trained, rides well in the car, and minds very well overall, though he does best with consistent guidance. He’s improving on leash skills—he tends to walk out in front and pull a bit, but he responds well to redirection and continues to make progress. True to his Jack Russell roots, he has a classic yip-then-bark to get your attention and is quite the little “talker.”
At home, Gus is affectionate and playful. While he’s not a big couch cuddler yet, he enjoys being close by and will happily settle at your feet while you work or relax. He loves toys, outdoor playtime, and giving sweet kisses (especially on ears and necks!).
Gus is still polishing his manners, but he’s smart, eager to learn, and full of heart. With continued training, enrichment, and a patient family, he’s going to shine. If you’re looking for a funny, loyal, and spirited companion who will keep you smiling every day, Gus just might be your perfect match.
Fergus is from Texas. If you are interested in getting to know this animal better, please fill out an adoption application. An adoption application is the best way to show your interest in an animal and is not a binding contract.
To learn more about Ruff Start’s adoption process and the care our foster animals receive, please visit our How to Adopt page.
If you are unable to adopt but want to help this animal and others in our care, you can donate to support the medical and veterinary needs of all Ruff Start Rescue animals.