Meet Frankfurter, affectionately known as Duke! This handsome 38-pound low-rider is a sweet, curious boy who is still getting comfortable in his foster home, but he's already showing plenty of wonderful qualities. He came to BARCS at no fault of his own and was described as an energetic, curious dog who enjoys walks, fetch, chewing on toys, and spending time with his people.
He is house trained and comfortable in a crate. Frankfurter has made it very clear that walks are one of his favorite things in the world. In fact, picking up his leash and giving it a little shake is currently the best way to convince this stubborn guy to get up and leave his recovery pen! Once he's outside, he's a completely different dog-happy, bouncy, and eager to explore. He loves sniffing, walks beautifully without pulling, and is easy to redirect. He may occasionally decide that getting up for a potty break is simply not on his schedule, but thankfully, his love of walks can usually convince him otherwise.
Frankfurter can be nervous when meeting new people and needs a little time to decide that someone is a friend. Outside on walks, however, he generally ignores both people and other dogs and is content to go about his business. Once he trusts you, he enjoys pets and scratches and becomes much more comfortable showing his affectionate side.
Frankfurter has experience with children and previously did well with kids ages 5 to 9. He has not had extensive opportunities to interact with children in his current foster home, but his previous interactions were positive. Because he's still a little nervous with unfamiliar people, respectful introductions and giving him time to warm up will help him feel comfortable.
Frankfurter is also doing very well around his foster's resident dog, a 3-year-old, 45-pound female. The two have been able to coexist peacefully, with both showing loose, happy body language when they see one another. Frankfurter will happily sniff her before wandering off to do his own thing, and she follows his lead. They have been successfully sharing the home while Frankfurter rests in his recovery pen. At the shelter, he also interacted well with small dogs and generally preferred to coexist rather than engage in a lot of play. He would do best with gentle, polite canine companions and should meet any potential dog siblings before adoption.
Frankfurter hasn't had any reported experience with cats, so his compatibility with cats is currently unknown.
When he's feeling healthy, Frankfurter's playful side is sure to shine. He enjoys playing fetch, chewing toys, and his favorite oversized squeaky stuffie. He also loves being around his people and has shown that he's capable of relaxing quietly when alone. Before becoming sick, he would bark for 30-45 minutes when left alone before settling, but since returning from the veterinary hospital, he has been remarkably calm when left by himself. His foster will continue monitoring this as he returns to his normal routine.
Frankfurter is still a work in progress, but that's part of what makes getting to know him so rewarding. Beneath his initially nervous exterior is a sweet boy who loves his walks, enjoys getting to know his people, and has an endearing stubborn streak that makes sure everyone knows he's going to do things on his own schedule. With patience, gentle guidance, and time to build trust, Frankfurter has all the makings of a wonderful companion.
Frankfurter is currently recovering in the comfort of a foster home while he waits for his forever family. If you're interested in meeting this sweet low-rider, please complete an application and email dogfosters@barcs.org for next steps.
