Ninja ~ Mini Foxy (On Trial 25/2/16)

NINJA - Mini Fox Terrier, male, 7 years old. Are you the special person who has the time and patience to gain the trust of this lovely, but very timid, dog? If you are, you will be rewarded with a faithful companion for life. His life until he was rescued by DRN was as a stud dog on a puppy farm. He had little or no training or socialisation and as a result was extremely frightened when he arrived in care with us over three months ago. He was too scared of the outside world to leave our yard – it took five weeks of cuddles and treats for him to trust us to go for a short walk.

Ninja has made very good progress. Now he comes when called and sits up to have his lead put on and struts along on walks with our dog. He is still wary of strange noises and other dogs and people we meet but is now at the stage that he will sit quietly, though at the end of the lead behind us, while we chat. Everyone who meets him comments on how well he has progressed from the dog which used to cringe and pull backwards on his lead to try and get away from other dogs or people. He was inside with us during the recent thunder storms and was not scared of the thunder.

Ninja gets on well with our dog but has still not learnt to play with him. He loves having his chest and head scratched and puts his paw out for more when you stop. He loves to sit next to you though is quite happy to be nearby. He has a low shedding coat.

Ninja is house trained -though there have been a couple of “accidents” during the night as he has not yet learned to use the doggy door. He sleeps with our dog in the laundry and we are now greeted enthusiastically every morning. He has not shown any aggression and does not object when food or bones are taken from him.

Ninja is a quiet dog and rarely barks. He does not like to be left alone but this may improve as he gains confidence. He would not be suitable for a family with small children as he does not like sudden noises or rough playing. He would be an ideal dog for a retired person or someone who is at home during the day who can give him the love and care he needs. He could be an only dog or live with another one or two calm, friendly dogs.

For more information or to meet Ninja, please ring his foster carers Ray and Brenda on 02 4019 0370. Ninja is in foster care in Port Stephens, NSW (north of Newcastle). He is not available for adoption interstate.

Ninja's adoption fee is $200 and he is desexed, vaccinated, treated for fleas and worms, microchipped, and lifetime registered. You can see all our available dogs at www.dogrescuenewcastle.com.au