Maddie is confident, friendly on her terms, sometimes a little tough-and unapologetically herself. It's a bit of a bummer that she struggles to connect with visitors who don't see past her confident demeanor to the truly special dog she is.
Maddie is the perfect mix of mental toughness and comedic charm, wrapped up in a muscular, super rotund frame. Her head-imagine a squashed kid's toy-is both hilarious and completely adorable. Add her constant lip-tongue-teeth mishaps-lips caught in teeth, tongue hanging out when her mouth is closed-and you've got a dog who keeps you laughing without even trying.
But Maddie's real charm lies in her self-assurance. She's friendly-just not in that over-the-top, in-your-face way. Maddie knows how to have fun and then likes to settle in close when she's done. She loves her toys (especially squeaky ones, which she uses liberally), and she's happy to entertain herself while you work. Fair warning: if you work from home, you might hear a lot of squeaking. And when she's in the mood? Maddie thinks being chased is the most fun thing ever. She's the kind of dog who gives you space but is always ready for a good time.
On the practical side, Maddie seems pretty darn housetrained, rides beautifully in the car, and isn't easily fazed by her surroundings-she's calm and confident wherever she goes. Her biggest quirk? We lovingly call it her "gator mouth," though she's more of a "toad mouth" in structure. When Maddie gets excited, she can be a little nippy, so older kids or adults who understand her style are the best fit. Maddie thrives with people who appreciate her playful, rough-and-tumble energy and know how to help her channel it into positive outlets.
Her ideal home is one where she can be the only pet, with someone who values her "big mama" energy and independence. She pulls a bit on the leash-you definitely have to pay attention-but she looks back at you often and eventually finds her rhythm. And on walks, she's unfazed by much, which adds to her cool, unruffled vibe. Back home, Maddie loves chewing on her toys, though she might get a little mischievous and chew on yours too. Puppy-proofing is definitely recommended!
Maddie has been waiting patiently for her match-someone who sees her for the strong, hilarious, and unforgettable dog she is. If you're ready for a companion who will make you laugh out loud and snuggle in close when the fun is done, Maddie's ready to meet you.
Maddie is eligible for an Adoption Audition-a 5-day, no-strings-attached trial adoption! Want to give it a try? Visit the shelter during open hours and talk to our Customer Care staff.
Check the "shelter information" box to see if the pet is at our Fairfax Campus (4500 West Ox Rd) or Lorton Campus (8875 Lorton Rd). Open hours: Tues/Wed 12-5 p.m., Thurs/Fri 12-7 p.m., Sat/Sun 11-5 p.m. Learn more about adoption requirements and fees at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.
