Rocky

My story

You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. **If you are interested in being considered for this dog, please be sure to complete an application directly on our website - not through a 3rd party service.* Meet Rocky – Your Ultimate Adventure Partner! Are you looking for a high-energy, confident, and incredibly trainable companion to join you on your adventures? Rocky, a 3.5-year-old Labrador Retriever, is ready to be your running, hiking, biking, and swimming partner! Whether it’s miles of exercise, endless games of fetch, or advanced training challenges, Rocky is always eager to go!  About Rocky:  Breed & Background: Rocky is a working-line Labrador Retriever with a mix of black and chocolate Lab heritage. While he wasn’t considered a “show” dog due to his mixed pedigree, he was handpicked by a reputable breeder and donated to Canines 4 Comfort to be a therapy companion.  Training & Temperament: Rocky has completed beginner and advanced obedience training at TOPS Dog Training Center in Grayslake. He thrives with structured training, clear leadership, and mental stimulation. He is leash-trained and does very well with a confident handler, especially on runs or bike rides. He would excel in agility, advanced obedience, or any structured canine sport.  Exercise Needs & Lifestyle: Rocky is happiest in a home where he gets daily exercise and a job to do. He will run, bike, swim, or play fetch for hours if given the chance! After burning off energy, he enjoys patrolling, monitoring, and occasionally lounging in his current home’s large, invisible-fenced yard. Ideally, he would thrive in a similar setup where he has space to move and explore.  Swimming Enthusiast: Rocky LOVES to swim! If you have access to a lake, pond, or pool, you’ll have a very happy dog on your hands.  Socialization: Rocky gets along with most dogs, but he needs structured introductions, especially with other alpha-male dogs. He is not suited for a home with young children—his confidence and energy make him better suited for older teenagers and adults.  Health & Care: Rocky is in excellent health, fully vaccinated, neutered (since 14 months old), and up to date on vet screenings. He has no known allergies and is adaptable to various diets.  Why is Rocky Looking for a New Home? Rocky was originally trained as a facility therapy dog for a counseling center. While he excelled in working with adults and older adolescents, he was not suited for therapy work with young children. When his primary handler transitioned to an elderly couple, they quickly realized that Rocky’s high exercise needs were more than they could provide.  The Perfect Home for Rocky:  Highly active owner(s) – runners, hikers, bikers, or agility trainers.  Experienced dog handler(s) who enjoy structured training and ongoing learning.  A home without young children (older teens/adults preferred).  A property with a yard (ideally fenced or with an invisible fence), where Rocky can patrol and stretch his legs.  Access to swimming areas would be a huge plus!  Bonus Potential! Rocky would make an outstanding agility dog, search-and-rescue trainee, or advanced obedience student. His athleticism, intelligence, and training foundation set him up for success in any challenge you take on together! If you’re looking for a loyal, active, and highly trainable companion who will be your ultimate adventure buddy, Rocky is your guy! Rocky's adoption fee is $350.00 and includes his completed wellness visit and age appropriate vaccines    *HWMAR presents the information in these bios based on our foster observations and any information presented to us regarding prior living conditions, breed specifications. While we aim to be as accurate as possible, each animal is individual and their behaviors and personalities can change in different surroundings.  HWMAR holds no guarantees to personality, behavior or breed*   Please review our adoption process & complete an application on our website -  www.hoofwoofmeow.org/adoption   We adopt within 150 mile radius of Elgin, IL **We are a 100% volunteer rescue.  All of our dogs are in Foster Homes**Submission of an application does not guarantee adoption of any specific animal as they may have applications pending or might not be the right match for you**  Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet.March 30, 2025, 6:03 pm

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