Ming

Ming — A Striking, Affectionate and People-Focused Companion

DOB: 18 June 2024
Breed: Catahoula mix, possibly with Staffy-type influence
Coat Colour: Blue Merle (even though he looks more brown in some of the photos)
Sex: Male
Weight: 22.4 kg
Colour: Blue merle
Eyes: Amber

Apply here:
https://southerndownsark.com.au/apply-to-adopt/

Meet Ming, a striking young dog with beautiful amber eyes, a direct and expressive gaze, and a deep affection for people.

Ming is a very people-focused dog who loves being close to his humans. When his foster carer is outside, he happily walks alongside her, keeping her company and making sure he is part of whatever is happening. He loves pats, enjoys attention and has clearly been someone’s much-loved pet in the past.

Although confident, Ming is not bossy. He has settled well with Caleb, the resident male Border Collie, and the two dogs get along nicely. He has not been exposed to cats while in ARK care. Ming is very interested in cattle and horses—rather too interested—so he would not be suitable for a home where he has access to livestock.

Ming is playful and still has a very endearing puppy-like side. When his foster mum recently returned home, he became so excited that he grabbed a sock and raced around proudly with it. His exercise needs are moderate and as you can see from the photos, he spends a fair bit of time snoozing on the lounge.

Ming has excellent recall and responds well to his person. He knows basic commands, walks well on leash and is eager to please. He is house-trained and has shown no food aggression.

He also loves travelling in the car. He can become a little excited, so he will need to be safely secured on the back seat with an appropriate harness or restraint.

Ming is naturally alert and protective of his home. He will bark when an unfamiliar person enters the property and may raise his hackles until he understands that the visitor is welcome. Sensible introductions and calm management around visitors will help him feel secure and make good decisions.

Secure fencing will be particularly important. Ming is capable of climbing a fence if it provides footholds, so his new home will need smooth, suitably high fencing without rails, objects or structures that could help him climb.

With his short coat, Ming feels the cold and will need to be welcomed indoors. He loves the lounge and is very happy sleeping there at night. He would not suit a home where he is expected to live outside or spend long periods alone.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an intelligent, loyal and energetic working breed, traditionally valued for its confidence, endurance and devotion to its people. Catahoulas generally thrive when given companionship, exercise, training and a clear role within the family. Ming’s sturdy build suggests there may also be some Staffordshire Bull Terrier influence in his mix, although this is only our best estimate.

Ming’s ideal home will offer secure fencing, indoor privileges, regular walks and outings, and people who enjoy including their dog in everyday life. He could live with a compatible dog following a thoughtful introduction, or he may be equally happy as an only dog in a home where he receives plenty of attention and companionship.

In return, Ming will offer loyalty, affection, good company and the wholehearted devotion of a dog who simply loves being with his people.

Apply here:
https://southerndownsark.com.au/apply-to-adopt/