Beethoven ~ Kelpie puppy (on trial 24/2/2018)

It’s no coincidence our Beethoven was named after a musical genius! This pup, who is the smallest of his siblings, has it all over them in smarts. He is cheeky, cunning and holds his own when the big ones want to pumble. At 5 weeks he had figured out how to plan at attack, steal his brothers treats and make a run for it. It is hilarious to watch.

His intelligence has been evident not only in play but also in attention to his surroundings, listening to voice call and eye contact with his carer. This will be a pup who could easily be trained above and beyond the usual basic commands. The lovely yin to his energetic yang is that he adores cuddles and snuggles into your neck when it’s time for a rest.

Beethoven initiates at playtime and has learnt to push and chase a ball from watching his big foster brother. He comes when called and your feet is his favourite place to sit. He would love another dog in the yard for companionship, and this would probably be best for his energetic play.

Beethoven is awaiting vet assessment and his first vaccination. We anticipate he should be ready for his new home week commencing the 19th of February when he will be turning 10 weeks old. Being a very young pup, he will not be able to be left for long periods of time, so will need a family where someone is home most of the time. He will need a secure yard with no gaps in fencing and might struggle with stairs until he gets a bit bigger. It is an absolute must that he be allowed to sleep inside at least until fully grown. Kelpies require minimum 5ft fencing.

Being a working breed, he will be full of energy. The time and work you put into him as a pup will determine his temperament as an adult. Puppy school and continued training are always recommended to create a strong bond with a new pup and teach them the skills to live happily in a new home and family. Small children must also be monitored around young pups to ensure they are handled correctly and a positive relationship is created on both sides. Please consider the needs and energy levels of a Kelpie before you apply. They must join an active family who will give them daily exercise and activities to keep their mind occupied. If they do not receive this and become bored, they can resort to nuisance behaviours purely to pass the time. They are not a breed for low energy households.

As Beethoven is not yet desexed, he is only available for adoption to Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Central Coast and Port Stephens because he'll need to be returned to our vet for desexing when he's approximately 5 months old.

Beethoven is currently in care in Port Stephens. As we anticipate a lot of interest in him, please contact his carer Lauren via email at hitthesand@hotmail.com You will be asked to complete an adoption questionnaire which you will find if you follow the link below or alternatively, visit the Dog Rescue Newcastle website, click on “How to Adopt” and complete the questionnaire from there.

Beethoven’s adoption fee is $550 and includes his desexing, vaccinations and microchipping and he's been treated for fleas and worms.