Max needs a foster carer
About Max
Max — The Perfect Mix of Adventure Buddy and Relaxed Companion
DOB: 7 December 2019
Breed: Kelpie (perhaps with a little dollop of Border Collie)
Weight: 22 kg
Apply here:
https://southerndownsark.com.au/apply-to-adopt/
Max is a beautiful, affectionate boy who has settled into foster care remarkably easily. He is loving, social and easygoing, with a lovely balance of enthusiasm for an outing and the ability to relax quietly beside his people once the adventure is over.
❤️ Personality
Max is affectionate and enjoys cuddles and being close to his humans. He is quiet and well-mannered, rarely barks and does not jump up on people.
His foster mum describes him as “a really good listener, keen to please and eager to learn.”
Max already knows several commands:
✔ Sit
✔ Down
✔ Come
✔ Stay
Max recently enjoyed an outing to Brown Falls, where he briefly gave chase to a kangaroo before quickly returning when called. His response showed that, even when something exciting catches his attention, he remains very connected to his person.
🐶 Social Skills
Max generally enjoys the company of other dogs and has settled alongside his foster mate, Paco. He has also met visiting dogs and enjoyed outings where other dogs were present.
Max and Paco had a couple of brief disagreements in the first day or two while learning to understand and respect one another’s boundaries. For this reason, any resident dog should be compatible with Max and introductions should be handled thoughtfully.
He could live with another compatible or be equally content as an only dog with plenty of human companionship.
His response to cats is currently unknown.
🚶 Lifestyle
Max is the perfect combination of adventure buddy and relaxed companion.
✔ Loves his walks and is very good on lead
✔ Travels beautifully in the car
✔ Enjoys outings, toys and playtime
✔ Has shown no digging or escape behaviour
✔ Settles well inside the home
✔ Is very happy to snooze nearby once his exercise needs have been met
He is not an especially high-energy dog and does not demand constant activity. A walk, outing or short play session in the yard is generally enough before he is ready to come inside and relax.
His favourite observation post is on top of the outdoor table, where he likes to sit and watch the world go by.
🏡 Home Life
Max has adapted very well to living in a home.
He and Paco have been engaged in a little competitive marking while they settle into life together. This is not unusual when two male dogs are establishing a new household routine and should improve with time, consistency and regular opportunities to toilet outside.
Despite being a mature gentleman, Max is still inclined to chew the occasional item that has been left within reach. Sensible management, suitable chew toys and a little guidance should soon help him understand what belongs to him and what does not.
He would love a home where he is welcomed indoors and included in daily family life rather than being left outside on his own.
🎓 Things He Is Still Learning
Max can feel a little unsure in extremely busy or noisy environments. During a visit to Warwick's Jumpers and Jazz festival, the crowds and noise were somewhat overwhelming for him.
He does not need to be taken into crowded settings to enjoy a happy life, but calm, positive experiences and reassurance from someone he trusts should help his confidence continue to grow.
🏡 Max’s Ideal Home
Max would suit someone looking for an affectionate, well-mannered companion who enjoys walks, car trips and gentle adventures but is equally happy relaxing at home.
His ideal home will offer:
✔ Secure fencing
✔ Indoor privileges
✔ Regular walks and outings
✔ Kind, consistent guidance
✔ A reasonably calm home environment
✔ Plenty of affection and companionship
Max offers the best of both worlds: a willing companion for an outing and a quiet, loving dog who will happily settle beside you at the end of the day.
Medical notes
No known pre-existing conditions.
Heartworm Information
Max came to us through the pound and, as a result, we do not have access to his vaccination history which is why we've answered "no" to the question about whether he's received heartworm prevention in the past 12 months. However, heartworm disease is uncommon in the Southern Downs, so ARK does not routinely heartworm test or administer heartworm prevention to dogs in our care. Should a successful applicant wish to have a heartworm test performed before adoption, we are happy to arrange this.
Adoption details
Dogs:
(1) The first step is to complete the online adoption application form at https://southerndownsark.com.au/apply-to-adopt/ Please answer all questions and include photos of your yard and fencing.
(2) All applications will be considered by our Adoption Team, following which a "meet and greet" will be offered to the top-ranking applicant.
(3) If the “meet and greet" is successful, the applicant may adopt the dog and take him or her home the same day.
(4) For successful interstate applicants, different arrangements may apply and will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
Cats:
If you are interested in one of our cats or kittens, please click on the green "Enquire about ...", button, tell us a bit about yourself and the home you can offer the cat, and one of our volunteers will be in touch.