Meet your next Golden Retriever boyfriend, Duke! Duke is a one-year-old who came to MUTTS as an owner surrender due to changing family circumstances. This sweet guy recently celebrated two major milestones: his first birthday and his neuter! Now that he’s crossed those items off his to-do list, it’s time to tackle the next big task – finding his family!

Duke is a classic Golden in every sense: enthusiastic, friendly, highly-trainable and obsessed with being part of the action! For Duke, it’s extremely important that he be both in the know and included in every household activity. When his fosters work from home, he’s always close, and anything new coming into the house is subject to inspection (boxes, people, etc.). Duke isn’t clingy but he hates missing out on the fun! This extends to backyard time, as well. Duke does not like being alone in the yard and will not do his business or play unless someone is with him. Once a companion joins him, he will entertain himself with toys, zoomies, sniffing (huge fan of this) or digging (watch out for this!). Duke really likes having a yard, but given he receives enough outdoor time, it’s not a non-negotiable. In fact, Duke would do well in a condo or apartment so long as his exercise needs are met!

Another one of Duke’s favourite activities is socializing! When he first met his foster brother, he was a little dominant but has since toned it down. They play really well together but are also totally fine to be in the same space while doing their own thing. Duke’s only other interactions with dogs have been on the leash. He loves saying hello to new dogs and his fosters often let him do so since he is well-mannered! Duke’s desire to make friends extends to humans, as well. He can be jumpy upon first meeting, especially if someone offers treats or talks in a high-pitched voice. Duke is still a puppy so he’ll need continued reminders not to come on too strong when trying to make friends! With kids, he was – surprise, surprise – very excited to meet them but he settled down quickly. His fosters kept him on a leash as a precaution, and they happily played fetch together! Duke does have some resource guarding around food but has already made major improvements. His adoptive family should be prepared to continue training, especially if they have children or other pets.

Though Duke is not an overly-vocal dog, he has appointed himself the family alarm clock! Once he’s ready to get going with his day, Duke will bark to kick start the household activity. His day starts with a 40 minute walk. Duke’s leash skills are hit and miss: he heels perfectly, but once released, he’s a puller. His fosters are using a prong collar so it’s manageable, and by the end of the walk he’s on a loose leash. That is until he sees a squirrel or bird or rabbit! Duke has a huge prey drive and will try to climb a tree in pursuit. We believe a solid training routine will help, and since manners come naturally for Duke (he’s a pro with his basic obedience), consistent work will do the trick!

Duke is neutered, microchipped and up to date with his vaccines. He is fully house trained and sleeps well in the crate overnight. He’s not a fan of being crated during the day while his fosters are home (the FOMO is too overwhelming), but has stayed crated up to seven hours when alone. He’s shown no signs of separation anxiety or destructive behaviour! When he’s excited, he grabs the closest toy and makes sure to parade it around. Duke love swimming, treats, and knowing that he’s secured his spot as your best friend!

Let’s help Duke kick off the summer with his new family!

SOCIABILITY: Humans (adults and kids) and dogs; not cat tested, but would need proper introductions and boundaries (he has some prey drive instincts!)
ENERGY: Medium
QUIRKS: When Duke gets excited, his teeth chatter!
TRAINING NEEDS: Continued leash skills and training (especially prey drive and food resource guarding)
MEDICAL NEEDS: None
WEIGHT: 60lbs
FOSTER LOCATION: Mississauga