Description
Merlin, formally known as Loki is approximately 1 Year old 11 months old and is a Medium Male around 19KG believed to potentially be a collie mix. He is not neutered, this will need to be looked into once he is settled and ready. He is however vaccinated and has no known health issues.
Merlin was rescued in Romania in July 2024 when he was a puppy and shortly moved to an adoption home. Unfortunately after 6 months they made the decision to surrender him. They felt although he was a very friendly boy, he was too boisterous and mouthy which was frightening for their child. They did say Loki loves the beach and paddling along in the water. He had also shown some guarding behaviours around high value items he has stolen around the house.
When Merlin was surrendered in his first home a face to face assessment was arranged for him. Our assessor said the following:
Loki is an amazing, friendly and active young dog. He behaves as you'd expect for a young dog of his age. He loves a fuss and happily played with his toys and allowed me to play with them alongside. He unfortunately lives in a small and cluttered home with no garden, and he is an energetic boy commensurate with his young age. He is not good on a lead and does pull. I feel Loki is a bit frustrated in his current situation and needs someone who would like to be more active and be out with him. He is not aggressive at all but is very enthusiastic about everything. He loved a fuss from me and was very open to being cuddled etc, which is amazing considering he has never met me before. He is a very bright dog with not enough to entertain him currently and this shows in his interactions with his family.
Merlin moved to his current adoption home in June 2025, unfortunately after 9 months they have made the decision to surrender him due to guarding and possesive behaviours within the home which resulted in a bite. They no longer feel they are able to work with him.
They have said the following:
Merlin currently lives with another small dog aged nine. He is an energetic and intelligent little dog with a big personality who enjoys being involved in daily life with his people. Merlin is affectionate with those he bonds with and enjoys learning, playing and staying mentally stimulated.
He is a bright dog who enjoys training and puzzle-style enrichment. He particularly likes treat toys such as puzzle feeders and treat balls and is very enthusiastic about learning new tricks. He already knows several cues including sit, down, paw, wait, spin and up, and he enjoys engaging with people through training sessions. He also enjoys playing with other dogs and tends to be very social when out on walks, often wanting to greet both dogs and people. When playing with the dog he currently lives with he can sometimes be a little rough simply due to his enthusiasm, but overall he enjoys canine company and play.
Merlin is very excitable when visitors come into the home and will usually greet people with a lot of enthusiasm and energy. He thrives when he has enough physical activity and mental stimulation and can become bored if he does not have appropriate outlets for his energy and curiosity. Providing regular exercise, enrichment and training helps him stay settled and engaged.
He is comfortable wearing a collar, harness and lead. On walks he can pull on the lead, although this has improved with the use of a front-clip harness which helps him walk more calmly. His recall is currently still a work in progress and he is not yet reliable off lead. When out walking he generally shows a friendly interest in other dogs and people, although he can become very excitable during greetings.
He has not shown a particular interest in cats when seeing them outside.
Merlin sleeps well overnight in his bed in the bedroom and settles without issue during the night. During the week he and the other dog in the household are usually left alone together for around four to five hours and he generally manages this time well. He does not show escape behaviours in the home.
Toilet training is still an area that needs continued work. Merlin can go long periods doing well but may occasionally slip back into accidents indoors without clear warning.
Merlin can be anxious in certain situations. He is often nervous around heavy traffic and can become frightened during fireworks or thunder. Car travel is also difficult for him as he becomes anxious and frequently becomes sick during journeys.
Merlin has shown resource guarding behaviour, particularly when he picks up items he should not have.
He can also show possessive behaviour toward his primary person when another person is present in the home.
Merlin would benefit from a home with someone experienced, patient and committed to continuing behavioural work. He would thrive with an owner who can provide structure, consistent boundaries and plenty of mental and physical enrichment to keep him engaged.
Merlin has not lived with children and has not had experience around them, so a calm adult home would likely be the most suitable environment for him.
Merlin is a bright, playful dog who enjoys interaction, learning and companionship. With the right environment, clear routine and experienced guidance, he has the potential to thrive in a home that can channel his intelligence and enthusiasm in positive ways while helping him feel safe and settled.
Adv. ID:A-m9h3Hry