Rex

Meet Rex 🐾

Rex is a big, goofy, ridiculously endearing boy with a heart every bit as large as he is. He has the exuberance of a puppy, fur like velvet and absolutely no idea how big or strong he actually is. In Rex's mind, he's quite possibly a lap dog – and he'll happily attempt to prove it! He's affectionate, intelligent and wants to be involved in whatever his people are doing, whether that's heading off on an adventure or simply pottering around the garden.

An active lifestyle is where Rex truly shines. He loves long walks, hiking, bike rides, swimming and games of fetch, and if there's water nearby, you'll probably find him in it. Pools, sprinklers, puddles – if it's wet, Rex is having fun! His previous family regularly exercised him by riding their bikes while Rex ran happily alongside, and his foster dad has found him an absolute dream to walk. His new family will need to be comfortable handling a large, powerful dog, but with the right person and ongoing training, Rex is a fantastic adventure buddy.

Rex is smart as a whip and learns incredibly quickly, especially when training is fun and positive. He already knows several commands, including sit, come, wait and heel, and figured out a dog door in no time flat. He loves having a job to do and is eager to please, although like many enthusiastic dogs, excitement can sometimes get the better of him.

Rex is very social and loves meeting other dogs. He has lived happily with both dogs and cats and is respectful when another dog tells him they're not interested in playing. He's also spent time around livestock, where his initial curiosity quickly turned into disinterest. At home he can sometimes be possessive of toys with his canine housemate, so sensible management around high-value items is important.

He's fully toilet trained, travels well in a secure travel crate (which can go with him to his new home), and settles nicely after he's had enough exercise. He's also wonderfully entertaining, with a flair for the dramatic that has stayed with him since puppyhood. Before an exciting outing, he can't help himself, celebrating with enthusiastic howls, moans and happy dances that are guaranteed to make you smile.

Rex can become extremely excited when visitors arrive or when it's time for an adventure, and because he's a big, strong boy, he can jump up and accidentally knock people over without meaning to. His new family will need to continue working on calmer greetings and helping him channel all that enthusiasm appropriately.

One of the biggest considerations with Rex is being left alone. He does not cope well with being on his own and can become destructive both inside and outside the home. Interestingly, since another large dog joined his foster home, Rex has been absolutely good as gold and is much more settled. He's also about to start attending doggy daycare alongside his canine companion, which will give him another outlet for his considerable energy and social nature. His new family will need to be prepared to provide plenty of company, structure, enrichment and appropriate outlets rather than expecting Rex to simply entertain himself while they're away.

Rex forms strong bonds with his people and loves being included in family life. He's happiest when he has something to do, somewhere to go or someone to hang out with. Like many intelligent, active dogs, boredom is his biggest enemy, and he needs both physical exercise and mental stimulation to keep that very busy brain occupied.

Rex is looking for an experienced, active home that understands large, energetic dogs and is prepared to put the time into helping him become the best version of himself. He'll need people who are realistic about his difficulty being left alone and who can provide plenty of companionship, activity and enrichment. In return, you'll have a wonderfully affectionate, loyal and entertaining companion who will be thrilled to join you on walks, road trips, weekend adventures and quite possibly anything else you can think of. He's big, he's goofy, he's smart and he's got enough enthusiasm for three dogs – but underneath all that exuberance is a very loving boy who simply wants to be part of the action.

6 GREAT REASONS TO ADOPT FROM SAFE:

1. Lifetime Support: If you can no longer care for your adopted pet, please inform SAFE, and we will do our best to help you find a suitable solution.
2. Discounted airfares: if applicable
3. Adoption fee includes vet check, first vaccination, microchip and desexing
4. Foster care instead of cage confinement, ensuring lots of love and socialisation
5. Speak directly with my foster carer
6. Quick response to your enquiry

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Am I the one you have been looking for? Click the link and fill out the application with as much detail as possible. The more information you provide, the easier the adoption process will be, hopefully bringing us together sooner!