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moderately energetic dog who wants to be your shadow, Ventura is your girl. She wants to be with her people all the time—whether that’s curled up on the couch, snuggled in bed, or simply following you from room to room. Ventura seems to bond more quickly with women and needs a little time to warm up and trust men. She reacts to men the same way she reacts to loud voices and sudden noises - fearfully - in that she may cower or walk away, looking for a safe space. As a result, she’ll do best in a calm, patient home. We think Ventura will do well with children but because of her nervousness, we don’t think she’d be the best fit for a home with young children; older and calmer children would be best. She gets along well with cats (she mostly ignores them!) and has done best with male dogs. She absolutely loves to run and play chase with other dogs, but she is very fast and should be considered at flight risk until she’s fully settled into her new home. Secure doors, fences, and a little extra caution will be important. Ventura enjoys car rides, although she’s convinced she’d make an excellent co-pilot if you let her ride up front. She also did great during her bath, so water doesn’t seem to bother her at all. She’s still learning the basics and hasn't had much formal training, so she’ll need help with manners and commands. She’s a bit of a bull in a china shop at times, but she’s food -motivated, which will make training much easier. Ventura is improving on her leash skills and has learned a few basic commands. House training is still a work in progress. She seems a little unsure about the backyard, almost as if she’s never really had the freedom to enjoy one before. Sometimes she needs encouragement to go outside, and she’s had a couple of accidents because of that. She’s already beginning to let her foster family know when she needs to go, and with patience and consistency, we think she’ll continue to improve. Ventura isn’t a fan of being crated by herself, but she settles much better if another dog is nearby. At night, she sleeps quietly in her crate as long as it’s in the room with her people. She recently successfully transitioned to sleeping outside of the crate next to her foster parents' bed. She would thrive in a home where someone is around most of the day—someone who works from home or is retired would be ideal. More than anything, Ventura needs someone willing to give her time. She won’t instantly trust everyone, but every day she becomes a little braver, a little more confident, and a little more affectionate. Keep an eye on your trash cans as she may scavenge for treats. If anyone knocks on your door, don’t worry—her bark is impressive enough to send those pesky solicitors on their way! Ventura isn’t looking for perfection. She’s looking for someone who will see past her fears, celebrate her progress, and give her the love she’s been waiting for all along. We truly believe that person is out there. If you are interested in adopting Ventura, please contact your adoption coordinator. If you do not yet have an adoption coordinator, please complete an adoption application at .freedomgermanshepherdrescue . Ventura is being fostered in Greensboro, NC.