River

My story

You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website.Meet River – A Pekingese with Personality (and a Few Quirks)! River is a 15.8 lb Pekingese, estimated to be between 5years old, and he’s every bit as stunning as his breed promises just wait until his coat grows back! This handsome boy is currently in foster care and doing great with his foster mom and her pups. He’s scheduled for a dental and will also have a small mass removed, so he’s getting all the care he needs to be at his best. Now, let’s talk about River’s personality: he’s a true Peke through and through—bold, independent, and yes, a little bit of an a-hole (but in the most lovable way!). On a scale of 1–10, with 1 being the easiest dog ever and 10 being the most challenging, River sits around a 7–8 in terms of potential aggression. This is mostly fear-based, and his foster mom believes it will improve with time and trust. River has shown signs of fear-biting in the past, so he needs an experienced Pekingese owner or someone who understands and can manage this behavior. He is absolutely not a fit for a home with kids, as he startles easily and needs a calm, understanding environment. At night, River sometimes wakes up from sleep in full defense mode growling and barking like something is after him. But once his foster opens the crate door, he runs straight into her arms. He doesn’t want to attack; he’s just terrified. This sweet boy has endured something in his past, and it shows. But the silver lining? He has the will and ability to love deeply he’s just not going to hand his heart over to just anyone. River has done well with his foster’s dogs and even tolerated a bath like a champ. He’s smart, strong-willed, and affectionate once he trusts you. If you are the type of person who loves a challenge, understands the Pekingese personality, and knows the reward of earning a dog’s trust, River could be your guy. Details:     •    Breed: Pekingese     •    Age: 5 years     •    Weight: 15.8 lbs     •    Upcoming: Dental & small mass removal     •    Needs: Experienced owner, no kids, patient and committed home River isn’t for everyone but for the right person, he will be everything.Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet.August 28, 2025, 7:01 am

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