Description
How big? Large (around 30kg)
How old? Young adult (around two years)
Male or female? Female
Living with kids? I can live with children (8+)
Living with dogs? I can live with other dogs
Resident dog required? No, but would be beneficial
Living with cats? I’ve not been tested with cats
Where can I live? I’d like a calm, semi-rural home
Where am I from? Cyprus, now in Devon
About Vicky
Vicky is currently in a foster home in North Devon after being rescued from a difficult start in life and spending a good few months in the shelter in Cyprus. She’s believed to be around two years old and is a large mixed breed with a calm, sweet and endearing personality.
When Vicky first arrived, she was shy and uncertain, particularly around men, and it’s likely she hadn’t experienced much kindness before she found her way into our care. That said, her confidence is growing steadily and with gentle handling and a patient routine she is proving herself to be a loyal and affectionate companion. Once she forms a bond, she’s very cuddly and loves to curl up close on the sofa.
Vicky has moderate exercise needs and is happy with a combination of light walks, a chance to play, and plenty of time to relax. She loves being outdoors, especially on the beach or in the woods, and while she’s happy to go on a longer hike, she’s equally content to have a slower day pottering around the garden and playing fetch. She has a playful side that comes out when she’s feeling relaxed, and she’ll happily entertain herself with a tennis ball or stick if left to her own devices. She’s also partial to a bit of sunbathing in the garden which she loves.
Although she is still gaining confidence with the lead, Vicky walks beautifully once out and about. She responds well once she knows she’s going somewhere fun and she’s now generally attentive and responsive on walks and enjoys having the freedom to sniff and explore at her own pace. She does have a tendency to look devastated at all times though, even when she’s having the best day - it’s those eyes!
Vicky is very dog friendly and has interacted well with every dog she’s met so far. She enjoys playing chase with dogs that match her energy but is also respectful around older or more reserved dogs. She could live happily alongside another friendly and balanced dog, but she’d also do well as the only dog in the home, provided she has regular chances to socialise with other dogs on walks or at the beach. Her confidence in a new environment may also take a little longer to grow without the reassurance and guidance of resident dogs.
At home, Vicky is generally well behaved, housetrained, and responsive. She loves toys and is highly, highly food motivated, which has been a big help in her training. She has not shown any aggression around food or toys, although she will opportunistically help herself to any food left unattended, so you do have to keep an eye on her. She managed to raid a dog food bag which ended in a trip to the vets because she ate so much she could hardly move! She is clever (just not when it comes to knowing when to stop eating) and trainable and has already learned how to sit.
Vicky has some separation anxiety and would struggle being left alone for long periods, especially with a male carer. She is far more comfortable in the company of women and will need a home where she is not routinely left with a man while she is still adjusting as she will retract back into her shell. She would be best suited to a quiet, predictable environment where her boundaries are respected and she can build trust at her own pace. A home without young children or lots of clutter would be ideal, as she can be prone to chewing if she becomes bored or stressed.
Vicky would thrive in a calm, rural or semi-rural setting with access to a garden and a quiet walking route nearby. She is a gentle and sensitive dog who just needs the right environment and a bit of patience to help her fully relax and continue blossoming. She has already come such a long way and, with the right support, will make a loving and loyal companion.