Meet Lilac, this 52-pound, medium-sized sweetheart is full of gentle affection and can't get enough of those oh-so-perfect butt scritches. She's eager to get outside and explore the world, tail wagging and nose sniffing. While we're not sure yet if she knows "sit," she'll definitely win you over with her soulful eyes-especially if treats are involved! This little lady loves to be close-during a recent outing, she hopped right up onto a bench and curled up in her volunteer's lap, tucking her paws under in the cutest, most heart-melting way. She did it more than once, showing just how much she enjoys closeness and connection.
Lilac makes great eye contact during leash work and shows real promise with loose leash walking, even if she pulls a bit now and then. With a little time and training, she'll pick things up quickly. She's smart, she wants to please, and she bonds fast with her people. She is so attentive and responsive to her handler. Lilac is already spayed and ready to go home today. If you're looking for a cuddly, trainable companion who's full of love and potential, Lilac just might be your perfect match.
Lilac recently had a fun-filled adventure to Patterson Park and BMORE Licks - and she had a blast! Her favorite parts? Checking out the ducks and, of course, enjoying a pup cup! She was described as playful, sweet, and a big-time explorer! Lilac rode well in the car and, while she starts off with some excited leash energy, she quickly settles into a nice rhythm. At Riverside Park, she loved people-watching and soaking up the sights.
Lilac has quickly become a fan favorite on her Dog's Day Out adventures-and it's easy to see why! This adorable pup recently enjoyed a trip to Miss Shirley's Café, followed by a pup cup treat and a cozy car ride. Described as energetic, loyal, and an absolute cuddle bug, Lilac knows how to make every outing special. She walks nicely on leash, rides well in the car, and loves being near her people-especially if there's snuggling involved. On another adventure, Lilac had the best time relaxing by the river. She was calm and well-mannered around people, polite with food, and absolutely lit up when she got to splash and play in the water.
Lilac has met other dogs at the shelter, she does best with tolerant males. She will need to meet any doggie roommates to make sure they are a good match, and is eligible to come back to BARCS for social sessions.
Lilac is in the comfort of a foster home, please email dogfosters@barcs.org to be connected with her foster family.
**I'm on BARCS' VIP Urgent List. Why is My Status Urgent?**
A dog's behavior in a shelter can be very different from how they act in a home once they have time to relax. In the shelter, dogs spend a lot of time isolated in their kennels, meet new people constantly and are surrounded by other loud barking dogs, new smells, new sounds and new routines. This environment can keep their stress levels elevated for days or even weeks, which can cause them to act out in ways they wouldn't in a home. Because of this, what we see in the shelter are just observations and not promises of how the dog will behave later. A dog's true personality often shows up once they've had time to settle into their new home-that's why fostering and adopting is so important!
The following are the observations of my challenges in a shelter environment:
Dog Selectiveness: Dog selectiveness is when a dog may get along well with some dogs but might have a poor reaction or be avoidant with others. Selective dogs may need carefully managed interactions, intentionally selected playmates to ensure compatibility, supervised play with other dogs, and avoidance of situations where they feel threatened or overwhelmed.
Barrier Reactivity: Barrier reactivity occurs when a dog may bark, growl or lunge when behind a barrier, such as a fence, gate or window, often due to frustration or excitement. If barrier reactivity continues outside of the shelter, the dog may need desensitization by gradually exposing them to the trigger from a safe distance, rewarding calm behavior, and managing the environment to reduce opportunities for reactivity.
Fearful/Nervous: Fearful or nervous dogs may react poorly or give other warning signs when they feel threatened or scared, often to get a person or object to back away. If the dog continues to display fearful behavior, after the proper acclimation/decompression period in their new home, they may need a continued calm, supportive environment, with gradual exposure to their triggers and positive reinforcement to build trust and reduce anxiety.
