Russel

Meet Russel

Looking for a loyal, affectionate, and playful companion? Russel might just be your perfect match.

Russel is a gentle, sweet-natured boy who has truly embraced the comforts of foster life after his time in the pound. He has settled beautifully into a routine of daily walks, backyard playtime, light training, and keeping a watchful eye on his foster mum while she gardens. He also shares his home with his tiny foster sibling, Norman, and the two enjoy playful chases in the yard — always with Russel showing patience and kindness.

His Ideal Home:
Russel would thrive in a home with a good-sized, fully fenced yard where he can stretch his legs and enjoy a run.

He is used to having his humans around for much of the day, but he is also content being left alone for a few hours when needed. During the day, he’s happy relaxing on the back deck, in the yard, or on his bed.

Russel can live with another dog, provided there is a slow, steady introduction and the ability to separate them initially while they build a positive relationship. He would do best with a calm, well-balanced companion.

While Russel is a Border Collie, he does not have the high energy levels often associated with the breed. That said, he will benefit from an owner with some dog experience — particularly someone who can read canine body language and continue guiding him with calm, consistent leadership.

Background & Personality:
Russel came into care as a stray and showed signs of past neglect, including fly-struck ears and a matted coat. He was initially reported to be reactive toward other dogs and unfamiliar men.

Since being in foster care, Russel has made wonderful progress. With calm introductions and reassurance, he has learned to feel comfortable around men and now relaxes within minutes, happily engaging for attention and affection.

In the evenings, Russel enjoys coming indoors, snuggling on the sofa, and sleeping peacefully on his bed.

Energy & Training
Russel is a 20kg dog with a laid-back, affectionate temperament. He enjoys his daily walks and outings, but is equally content lounging at home with his people.

He has already learned a range of commands including sit, wait, drop, leave it, and walks nicely on lead. He does, however, need continued training, particularly with:

Recall
Strengthening “stay” at a distance
Managing some minor reactivity to certain dogs

He has come a long way — overcoming initial anxieties such as car travel — and now hops in happily and rides well.

Other Pets & Social Skills:
Russel is currently fostered with another dog and has shown himself to be gentle, tolerant, and playful. He enjoys interactive play but also respects space.

On walks, he can sometimes react to more assertive dogs, but responds well to guidance and redirection. For this reason, he is typically kept on lead in public spaces and only allowed off-lead in secure areas when alone.

He is untested with cats, though he does show a tendency to chase birds and we feel he'd be best in a cat free home.

Children:
Russel would be best suited to a home with older or grown children who can interact with him calmly and respectfully.

A Final Note:
Russel’s love language is simple: affection and closeness. He adores a full-body cuddle and will return your love tenfold.

He may not be the high-energy Border Collie you expect, but he is something just as special — a loyal, loving companion who is ready to continue his journey with someone patient, kind, and willing to keep building his confidence and skills.

If you’re looking for a devoted best friend who will happily slot into your daily life, Russel is ready to meet you.