Tate

Affectionately referred to by his foster family and friends as "Tater Tot," sweet little Tate is a cute cocker mix with the intensive stare and drive of a herding dog with the cute under-bite of a Pekingese. We suspect that Tate was either abused or neglected, and likely lived outside until he was picked up by the shelter; he was covered in fleas, had a skin infection and ear infections, a wound on his neck that required surgery, and was nothing but skin and bones. He is now comfortably living in a foster home where he is learning what it means to be loved and cared for, and would really blossom in a patient forever home (without young children!) that believes in positive and consistent training!

Though it is hard for him, it is easy to tell that Tate desperately wants to trust humans again. Once he is comfortable with you, he loves to crawl in your lap, give you little kisses, and be scratched on the back. He is very companionable, loves to be talked to, and will be your shadow. He is also very food motivated, but not at all food aggressive, which will help with his training! He also loves to play with his K9 foster sister, and K9 friends that visit his house from time to time. He is a bit dominant however, and might do best with another dog who has a submissive personality. He is currently crated while his foster parents are working (8 hours) but only because his foster sister is a food grazer and he will steal all of her food! With a sibling that is on the same feeding schedule as he is, Tate would do fine on his own in the house and would love to snuggle with you or in his very own big fluffy bed at night. He is a vocal guy too and has a wide range of sounds to express when he wants to play, eat, is scared, or sees a bike rolling down the street, and would probably not fit as well in apartment-style living. Once he realizes it is ok to trust you, Tate reveals a unique little personality that is hard not to fall in love with!

Tater is a 4-year-old curious, cuddly guy with so much potential who is desperate for a patient forever family that will give him the guidance he needs as he learns the doggy ropes. Please consider opening your heart to a dog who deserved much better than he has gotten so far in life.