About Me
Rufus is a truly scrumptious sighthound who has made wonderful progress since coming into our care. When he arrived he was very underweight and unfamiliar with home life, but he is now thriving in foster and enjoying all the comforts that come with it, especially sofas and snuggles. He is 26 inches TTS, and weighs 24kg.
Rufus is an incredibly affectionate and cuddly boy who adores human company. He is a real people dog, sometimes a little shy at first, but he quickly warms up and then believes wholeheartedly in personal space being optional. He is playful, curious and a bit of a goofball, with a lovely silly side that makes him a joy to live with.
He is now fully toilet trained, though he may have the odd accident in a brand new environment. He can be left for short periods and is currently comfortable with around 20 minutes, with this gradually being built up. Rufus will settle in a crate when given a high value chew. He enjoys enrichment toys, treat puzzles, soft toys and has recently discovered balls.
On walks, Rufus is generally friendly or unbothered by people and dogs depending on their energy, but this is his biggest area for ongoing training. He is a frustrated greeter and will bark at other dogs until he can say hello, then bark again once they leave. He also has a high prey drive and will pull on the lead if he spots cats, foxes or dogs. Because of this, Rufus will need a home committed to continuing his training, ideally with sighthound experience.
Rufus can live as an only dog and would be very happy soaking up all the attention, though with careful introductions he may enjoy a calm canine companion in the future. He may be slightly better suited to living with small dogs than larger ones, but this would need to be managed sensibly. He does not guard toys or food generally, though he has very occasionally growled if a high value treat has been taken away.
He has a moderate energy level and is not a high energy dog. He is happy with one proper walk and a gentle stroll each day, provided he also gets enrichment, playtime and plenty of naps. Rufus travels in the car but finds it stressful, so daily car journeys would not suit him.
Rufus is learning quickly and is responsive to his name. He knows sit and is currently learning lie down and shake. He is very food motivated and keen to please, which will help with his ongoing training.
Rufus is currently in foster in South London and we are now accepting applications for him. He would thrive in a calm, patient home that understands sighthounds and is happy to continue building his confidence and skills. In return, Rufus will offer endless affection, laughter and some of the best cuddles you could ask for.
Want to Adopt Rufus?
If you would like to give Rufus a new home, please contact the rescue on https://www.lurchersos.org.uk/dogs/adoption-application-form and ask for Laurie.
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