Next up, Ritchie (and his ears!)! Born May 22, this part shepherd, part bat comes from a remote community in northern Manitoba where he was found in rough shape: sitting in water, covered in fleas, emaciated, and with a wound on his cheek. Thankfully this little cutie has made a full recovery and is lapping up all that puppyhood has to offer! Ritchie is an active, people-loving pup who can’t wait to find his forevers!

Ritchie is a very playful puppy with a major zest for life! He loves meeting new creatures: dogs, cats, humans, squirrels… all potential pals for Ritchie! He’s still a puppy so continued training is required to sharpen up his impulse control, especially when it comes to making a good first impression. Ritchie is being fostered with another dog, and they get along like peanut butter and jam! Ritchie is always ready to engage in play but does understand cues from other dogs if he gets too excited. As for cats, Ritchie doesn’t get why they aren’t more interested in playing. He’s received several swats from the resident feline and has learned to back off (though he will bark!). With humans and kids, he’s eager to say hi and tends to jump up on the little ones, but nothing that poses a long-term issue with consistent training!

If Ritchie could plan his perfect weekend, it would go like this: wake up, go for a walk or hike, play with some dogs, dig in the dirt, eat a lot, chew on a bully stick, nap and repeat. Given his shepherd genes, Ritchie would be an excellent fit for an active family, especially as he continues to grow. He receives two 20-30 minute walks per day, consisting of around 3km of casual walking and meandering. This, paired with endless play with the resident dog, keeps Ritchie’s beans burned, though he could still take on more activity. A condo would be too small a space for this guy – he’s looking for a larger home with access to the outdoors, especially since he’s a big fan of playing in the grass!

Ritchie is well on his way to perfecting his basic training. As with any puppy, distractions often get the best of him, but since this little guy loves treats it’s easy enough to get him back on track. He loves to chew on things (teething phase in full effect) but always releases items that aren’t meant for him. Ritchie is a super playful guy, whether on his own or with other dogs, and currently favours a mischievous little game where he steals socks or golf tees (whatever’s on the ground, really) and runs off. He just wants to be chased and always gives up the stolen goods!

Ritchie’s potty training is 90% of the way there. He needs to be taken out ASAP in the mornings, right from the crate. He also doesn’t ask to go out when he needs a bathroom break, so that’ll be the final step in his potty training! As for the crate, he’s already a little pro and has no issues being crated when his fosters go out. Ritchie is microchipped and has received his first round of puppy series shots. His adoption fee will include his second round of shots, along with his neuter at six months.

Ritchie is sweet, goofy and always up for some fun! Let’s help this little adventurer find his family!

SOCIABILITY: Humans (adults and kids), dogs and cats (likes to chase; will need to learn how to properly co-exist with a cat)
ENERGY: High
QUIRKS: Ritchie is floppy – all legs! He bounds and falls and rolls when he’s out for walks in the tall grass
TRAINING NEEDS: Continuing with the puppy basics: obedience, leash skills, potty training, proper socialization
MEDICAL NEEDS: Remaining puppy series shots and neuter at six months
WEIGHT: 26lbs (and growing!)
FOSTER LOCATION: Whitby