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stie mixed in there. He requires a savvy home with another friendly resident dog in the home.
🏡 His Ideal Home
✔️ Patient, experienced adopters who understand shy, fearful rescue dogs
✔️ A friendly resident dog to help him feel secure and show him the ropes
✔️ A family committed to positive reinforcement, routine, and continued confidence-building
✔️ Someone willing to work through a learning curve with potty training and house manners (he is doing very well with this and even asking to go outside potty when he needs to go, but there will be a learning curve and he may mark in a new environment, like any new dog)
✔️ Older, gentle children (13+) who understand how to respect a dog's space
❤️ Things to Know
Angel Eyes does not show well when you first meet him. From what we know, he was likely an outdoor only dog who lived with a couple other dogs and was not socialized in public, just with the people who lived there.  Becausr of this and being abandoned when the people moved and being chased on the street he needs time to warm up and decide you're safe before he wants affection. One of the most important things his adopter can do is advocate for him by not allowing strangers to pet or grab at him until he asks for that interaction. Building trust at his pace is essential to helping him feel secure.
With his people, Angel Eyes is a completely different dog. He melts into your arms, loves being held like a baby, enjoys cuddling, and is incredibly sweet and tolerant. But in unfamiliar situations—especially around strangers, at the veterinarian, or at the groomer—he can become overwhelmed, fearful, and nippy if he's pushed beyond his comfort zone. He does give visual cues when he's uncomfortable, so it's only when he feels trapped or pressured and that is not respected that he may nip or bite, so we just want to be sure he feels safe and his new people are savvy enough to read that.
His new family will need to understand that confidence isn't built by forcing interactions. It's built through patience, calm leadership, positive experiences, and allowing him to choose when he's ready. Sitting nearby, tossing treats, ignoring him until he approaches, and respecting his boundaries helps him blossom. He also seems to be a lot more comfortable when there are other friendly, playful dogs around to help him feel secure. He could definitely benefit from basic training to help build his confidence. We really would love him to go with another friendly dog to help him feel safe and encourage him to play.
🐾 His Story
When Angel Eyes came into rescue, he was severely neglected. His coat was painfully matted with foxtails embedded throughout his fur, ears, and even deep in his groin, causing infections and significant pain. Grooming and veterinary care became frightening experiences because they were associated with discomfort. His reactions were rooted in fear and pain—not aggression.
Now that he's healthy, comfortable, and finally experiencing kindness, his true personality shines a little more every day.
✂️ Grooming Requirement
Maltese/Poodle mixes require professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Without routine grooming, their coats become painfully matted, trap debris like foxtails, and can lead to painful skin infections. This is a lifelong commitment and an essential part of keeping Angel Eyes healthy and comfortable.
❤️ The Reward
The family willing to give Angel Eyes the time he needs will be rewarded with one of the sweetest little companions you'll ever meet. He absolutely loves other dogs, does well with cats, enjoys playing with his dog friends, and is happiest curled up next to the people he loves and trusts.
❤️ To be considered for adoption, please submit a detailed application at .K9ppr. We require detailed applications to help ensure the very best lifelong match for both our dogs and their new families.