Backpack

My story

All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.Adoption fee: $800 Backpack 10–12 months old | 18 lbs | Bichon Mix | Fluffy Composer & Professional Lounger   Meet Backpack— a soft, silly, low-maintenance fluffball who might just be the coziest companion you’ve ever met. At only 10–12 months old, Backpack is mellow beyond his years, with a gentle heart and a talent for dramatic exits and musical performances (more on that later). Rescued from a shelter, he’s spent his foster days figuring out the good life, one hidden chew toy and piano solo at a time.   Daily Life with Backpack Backpack wakes up around 7am and starts his day with a quick potty break in the backyard. He then either accompanies the kids to school or stays close to his foster mom. By 9:30, it’s time for his daily stroll— slow and steady, just how he likes it. He spends most of his day lounging, chewing on a bully stick, or napping while his human works. He’s crated for a few hours if his foster family leaves, but otherwise, he’s happy to hang out nearby.   He goes on one last walk around 8:30pm and is ready to snuggle up by 10. At night, you’ll often find him tucked under the couch or bed until he eventually shuffles into the bedroom to sleep nearby. His food is always available, but he’s a bit of a picky eater with ever-changing tastes (chicken is currently the favorite… for now).   Personality & Quirks Backpack is gentle, sweet, and deeply affectionate—especially with his person. He’s developed a strong bond with his foster mom and will watch out the window and even howl if she leaves, regardless of who else is home. He’s mellow, doesn’t demand much, and will quietly follow you from room to room, pawing at you for pets or crawling into your lap if you sit on the floor.   He shows his affection through gentle mouthing, pawing, and jumping up to say hello. It’s not overwhelming, but his future family should be okay with some hands-on (and paws-on) love.   Backpack is also crate-trained (especially if the crate is covered and a radio is playing), housetrained (with occasional marking which will likely resolve once his hormones die down), and responds well to calm routines. He hasn’t played with many toys yet but loves bully sticks and has a habit of hiding them around the house to “find” later.   Great with Kids Backpack has been around kids ages 2–16 and is incredibly gentle and tolerant. He’s happy to be pet and handled and doesn’t mind a bit of chaos. That said, his pawing and gentle mouthing might surprise very young or sensitive kids, so families with dog-savvy children would be the best fit.   Walking Style: Leisure Mode Backpack is not in a hurry. He strolls. He sniffs. He pauses dramatically at every unfamiliar sound, especially in the dark. He’s not reactive, but he is curious and a little cautious. He’ll occasionally pull if he sees a squirrel, cat, or other dog, but mostly, he’s a mellow walker who just wants to enjoy the sights and smells.   Smart, Chill, and a Little Mischievous He doesn’t bark much—just the occasional garbage truck, yard cat, or unfamiliar human approaching on a walk. But Backpack has a secret playful side. He’ll swipe socks, shoes, plastic containers, and mysteriously tempting items when bored, usually to chew or hide them (he’s a bit of a treasure hoarder).   He also has a flair for the dramatic. Once, when his foster mom left the house, he jumped on top of the piano, howled, and accidentally played a tune. He’s since been nicknamed “Beethoofen.”   The Ideal Forever Home Backpack would do best with:   A mellow household looking for a low-key companion   Someone home often, or willing to ease him into solo time   A family who appreciates cuddles, but also gives space and structure   Kids who understand gentle dogs   A canine sibling could be a great match—he seems curious and may enjoy having a playmate once he’s more confident.   Why Adopt Backpack? Softest fur you’ve ever pet   Gentle, sweet, and loving with every person he meets   Rare combo of puppy cuteness with senior dog energy   Secretly musical   Backpack is still settling into the world, but he’s already a loyal, loving, and calming presence. If you’re looking for a furry best friend who’s equal parts couch potato and quirky companion, Backpack is your guy.   Ready to add a soft, soulful sidekick to your life? Backpack is packed with love and ready to go.        May 15, 2025, 5:12 pm

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