Hi there, I'm Elway, an 80-pound Border Collie mix with a big heart and a sensitive soul. I'm a sweet boy, but I need patience and understanding to truly shine. With time, consistency, and people respecting my boundaries, I've opened up a lot and have become much more welcoming. New places and new faces can still stress me out, and my first reaction to meeting someone new is usually barking. That's just my way of saying I'm unsure and need space. I don't like to be approached right away, especially by people I don't know, and I feel much safer when new friends sit down and let me check them out at my own pace. If someone stands over me, hovers, or reaches for me too quickly, it spooks me and makes it harder for me to relax. When people ignore me and let me go slow, I warm up very quickly and show just how affectionate I can be. Because of my sensitivities, I'm looking for a calm, quiet home without small children, where my boundaries will always be respected. I'd really love it if everyone in my future home could meet me ahead of time so we can make sure I'm comfortable with each person. While I thrive best in a low-key environment, I still need an active family who can exercise me regularly, help me lose some weight, and keep my mind and body engaged. I get anxious when there's nothing going on, so enrichment, structure, and routine are very important for me. I would benefit greatly from working with a trainer who understands socialization and confidence-building, as I tend to bark at people and things when I'm out in the world. I'm still young, eager to learn, and full of potential-I just need a patient, dedicated family willing to go slow with me and help me work through my quirks. If you're that kind of person, I promise I'll reward you with loyalty, sweetness, and a bond that's truly special.
My adoption fee of $225+tax covers the cost of my care and stay here at the humane society.
All Pennington County residents must also pay an additional $8 licensing fee at time of adoption.
Happy Adopting!
