Barkly

My story

This may be one of the most unique profiles you ever read. Yes, we say READ. Why? Well....we aren't going to show any pictures of this dog until you have. Intrigued yet? We hope so. Read on! PLEASE READ THOROUGHLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We are seeking a very special home for this very special boy. This dog is stunning, yet it's his looks that got him where he is. His looks will make you crave him, but his personality is what you need to be up for the challenge of handling. Barkly came from a breeding environment that hindered his social skills...what we call "puppymill syndrome." This is a personality disorder that prevents Barkly from trusting with ease, and often can only assimilate to one person at a time. Can he get there? ABSOLUTELY!!! When will he get there? That all depends on both him & you. THIS PUP IS EMOTIONALLY SHUT DOWN - HE WILL REQUIRE LOTS OF PATIENCE The reason we want you to READ first is to get a good understanding of who this dog is....and NOT what he looks like. He is absolutely, positively adorable, and everyone instantly falls for him...but he is not for everyone. In fact, he is not for most. He has some serious mental health matters that most people won't take the time to read about or understand, much less be able to handle appropriately, simply because he's too cute. And these health matters are relatively easy to handle for the right person with the right attitude. Most just see tons of cuteness in front of them and instantly disregard everything else. He & DREAM can't afford for that to happen. We've spent a lot of time and effort (and financial resources) getting Barkly back into good health, so we hope to truly inform you of him & his needs FIRST and then show you his photos later. We promise, you'll like them. So, let's dive in. Barkly is a long-haired, neutered male, ~1.5 years old (DOB Feb'24.) Sweet as pie. Softest hair & most soulful eyes you've ever seen. He's a petite little guy. ~11 lbs, fluff and all. He came to us after being purchased at 11 mths of age by a family that had him for ~6 months when the situation became too much. They just didn't know how to help Barkly get over his fears. Barkly did enjoy the children in their home, but he did not like the man of the house...not one bit. It was constant barking at this particular person, despite all his & their efforts. Barkly will need time to adjust to any new environment he's put into. With patience and positive reinforcement, along with gentle leadership without hesitation or worry, he will grow to trust you and your home. Reminder...our emotions travel down the leash and dogs absolutely pick up on that "worry", especially the sensitive dogs like Barkly. His ideal candidate will be female and home more than not. He will need someone who remains his cheerleader and his captain. We will also require there to be a fence (as he is a flight risk) and another dog in the home...one who is a confident dog that can help teach Barkly about his new world and all the good things in it. A few quick tips for handling a shy dog.......... Focus on building trust through patience, positive reinforcement, and creating a safe, predictable environment. Avoid forcing interactions, and instead, let the dog approach you at their own pace. Introduce new experiences gradually and pair them with positive associations like treats. If you are interested in learning more about Barkly (or adopting him), you can fill out an application right on our website! Once we review the app, then we will send photos of him. Go to our online adoption application. Barkly's adoption fee is $650. All adoption fees go directly to veterinary care for DREAM dachshunds. [Pet Name] will go to his / her new home microchipped, altered, heartworm tested, up to date on vaccinations, and with all other medical needs addressed. Almost every dog's veterinary expense is greater than our adoption fees; we are non-profit. DREAM is an all-volunteer rescue group. We focus on the metro Atlanta area and can assist throughout the state of Georgia. Since our rescue is entirely run and staffed by volunteers, our ability to travel long distances for adoptions is somewhat limited. We focus on Georgia, but if you are in a neighboring state, we might be able to work something out - we'll expect you to do your part. DREAM does not recommend purebred dachshunds for families with children under 5, or families planning to have children during the dog's lifetime. Dachshunds are often not patient with little kids, and kids can accidentally hurt a doxie's back. Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Twitter

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