Scruffy (On Trial 4/5/13)

Scruffy, 1 to 2 year old, male, Maltese x terrier. He's a young boy who is affectionate and happy and needs training and TLC. He plays well with dogs and especially loves running and wrestling with his buddies. He loves cuddles and attention and wants to lick and be affectionate. He has not been around children in foster care but I suspect he might like to play with older children as he's a happy, affectionate little man.

Scruffy likes company and howled when left alone. He wasn't fully housetrained when we got him and it's hard with 5 other dog here but we're working on it. He is starting to use the doggy door. He needs to be led outside to do his business after dark; perhaps he expects to be put out for the night and not allowed back in. He is an inside dog and needs to be allowed access to the house when people are home and to sleep inside. He was initially hesitant to use stairs but is getting used to small steps.

One of his great pleasures is chewing butchers bones. He is polite when being hand fed. He is quietly stoic in the bath but loves to play in warm outdoor water. Scruffy is tolerant of grooming, although not impressed. He was close shaved and now he has a beautiful new coat starting. He has a low shedding coat which needs regular brushing (every few days depending on length), bathing (every few weeks) and clipping (every 4 to 8 weeks) to keep him comfortable and beautiful.

Scruffy shows no fear aggression or any other aggression but will defend himself if attacked by another dog. He didn't seem to know basic commands at first but he does walk well on a lead and knows sit, when on a lead. He hasn't yet learnt to come when called and is inclined to wander off and sometimes bolts when outdoors so should be kept on lead until he gets more training. He gets car sick but seems to be improving. He does not react to storms. In other words, a typical terrier who is affectionate and happy and needs training and love and a chance to shine!

For more information or to meet Scruffy please phone Doug or Cheryl on 02-4959-5162 or 0414-876-498 email jimmo1955@bigpond.com . Scruffy is in foster care in west Lake Macquarie, NSW and is available for adoption interstate.

Scruffy's $400 adoption fee includes his desexing, vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, microchipping, and lifetime registration. You can see all our available dogs at www.dogrescuenewcastle.com.au