ANDY BERNARD - Labrador Retriever (medium coat) Dog For Adoption ANDY BERNARD - Labrador Retriever Male Dog For Adoption in Springfield, Massachusetts, USA

Dog Breed: Labrador Retriever (medium coat).

***In Foster--Call to Arrange a Meet.*** Andy may be the cutest little guy you have ever seen, but he has some specific needs and we want to take the time to make the right match for him. When he feels safe, Andy is goofy, playful, and happy go lucky like all puppies. He is a total dream when it comes to potty and crate skills! He is very respectful and polite towards his feline and canine foster siblings and is wonderful at sharing food and toys. He is not destructive and knows to play with toys and chew on bones rather than furniture. However, Andy is under-socialized and has some trauma from his past life. He is behind on many of the experiences that other dogs his age would have had by now: going new places, meeting new people, walking on leash… as a result he can be quite fearful and stressed in new situations. He also had some negative experiences with other dogs in the past and hearing barking or interacting with overbearing dogs can be very scary for him. Taking things slowly, and allowing him to set the pace as he decompresses will be extremely important. We are looking for patient and committed adopters who have experience with positive reinforcement, or willingness to learn. His guardian should be ready to go at a slower pace with Andy and recognize that he may not learn new skills in the timeframe typically expected of a puppy. We are also strongly recommending that his adopters reach out to a qualified behaviorist (either Paws of Nature or Pet Behavior Consulting, LLC) to start sessions at home with him. We want to make sure he is set up for success in his new home and has the best help possible to help him overcome his fears and learn that he is safe. The good news is, Andy is so fun, exited to learn, and he LOVES to learn and spend time with his people! We think Andy will do best in a home without young children. We also think he would greatly enjoy life in a more rural/woodsy area away from all the city noise that can be scary for him, but this is not a requirement. Andy will do very well with a neutral, calm, well adjust canine friend who can be a good role model for him. He will also do very well in a home with cats. Providing a combination of regular exercise, combined with mental enrichment such as food puzzles, games, and learning new skills and fun tricks will help him build confidence while creating a bond with his people. Please call to arrange a meet n' greet at 413-781-1484 xt. 2.