Meet Nacho!
Nacho is an adorable 9-month-old puppy with a big heart, lots of puppy energy, and an even bigger love for cuddles! He’s settling into life in Canada and learning all about being a puppy in a new environment. Nacho is potty trained and doing really well with his house manners. He had two accidents when he first arrived, likely from the long journey and adjusting to a completely new environment, but he has had no accidents since. He can take a little time to find his perfect spot outside, so his foster family is giving him the patience and encouragement he needs as he continues to build confidence. He is also working on crate training. Nacho is learning that his crate is a safe and comfortable place, using treats, meals, positive reinforcement, and lots of patience. He currently sleeps in his crate overnight and usually settles within about 30 minutes. He can be vocal and protest a little at first, but he is learning to settle independently and is making progress.
Nacho is a high-energy puppy who loves to play! He gets along wonderfully with his foster dog sibling, and the two enjoy walking, playing and cuddling together. He also does well on leash and does not pull, although he is still working on things like sitting at intersections and building confidence around the world around him. One of Nacho’s biggest areas of growth is confidence. He has Shown signs of non-aggressive fear around certain things, including people wearing hoods or dark sweaters, bikes, certain dogs on walks, and unfamiliar situations. His foster family has been working continuously with him through gradual exposure and positive reinforcement, and they are already seeing lots of improvement. When he sees something that makes him nervous, he is learning to focus on his people and make positive associations with treats and praise. When meeting new people, Nacho does best when he gets to approach them on his own terms. He doesn’t love abrupt introductions and needs a little time to warm up. Once he feels comfortable, though, he is a total sweetheart and absolutely loves getting pets!
Nacho has not yet been tested with children, and he has only met his foster dog sibling so far with proper introduction. His foster believes that any future dog introductions should be done thoughtfully and at his pace, by introducing slowly on pack walks. Nacho would love an active home with people who are ready for the fun, patience and commitment that comes with raising a puppy.
Nacho's ideal home: will enjoy walks, playtime, adventures, cuddles and keeping his growing mind and body busy. Just as importantly, Nacho needs someone who will continue helping him build confidence and work through the things that make him nervous. He is a smart young dog who is already making progress, and continued positive-reinforcement training will help him become the confident adult dog we know he can be. And after all that puppy fun? Nacho is more than happy to curl up beside his people and enjoy some serious cuddle time. Nacho has a huge heart and so much potential. He’s looking for someone who will give him the guidance, patience, structure and love he needs as he grows into his best self. Could you be his person?
Weight: 30lbs
Location: Burlington, ON
Age: 9 months old
