Opie

My story

Meet Opie! A spirited five-and-a-half-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier mix from West Haven, CT, whose heart is as big as his 67-pound fawn brindle frame, complete with an adorable white patch on his chest. Opie is the kind of dog who knows how to balance adventure with affection—whether he’s conquering hiking trails, riding shotgun on car trips, or snuggling up on the couch with his favorite blanket. Opie is a brainy, athletic guy with a solid foundation of professional training under his belt. He’s house-trained, off-leash ready, and fluent in an impressive list of commands like sit, stay, down, come, place, and even "give hug"—yes, he’ll literally jump into your arms for a cuddle! He’s eager to learn, deeply loyal, and thrives with structure and companionship. While he does have a sensitive stomach, he’s otherwise in excellent health, fully vaccinated, neutered, and microchipped. Opie’s perfect day includes a game of tug-of-war, basking in the sunshine, or curling up for a nap with his beloved blanket. But he’s just as happy lounging at your feet while you work. He’s a flexible, go-with-the-flow kind of guy, but he really shines when he gets regular exercise and mental stimulation. Now, Opie’s story does come with a chapter that needs thoughtful understanding. He has a bite history rooted in fear and anxiety, particularly when his trusted person isn’t around. It’s been over a year since his last incident, and when he’s with someone confident and calm, Opie looks to them for reassurance and settles quickly. Because of this, Opie needs an experienced, dog-savvy caregiver who can offer both structure and comfort. Opie prefers to be the star of the show in a home without other pets or with a very neutral canine companion. He hasn’t been around children or cats, so a quiet, adult household would suit him best. Are you the confident, loving companion Opie needs to continue his journey? If you think you’re the perfect match for this affectionate, loyal adventurer, reach out to adopt@joyfulpets.com—we can’t wait to hear from you!

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Opie, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.