Roddy is a three-year-old mutt who came from a neglected home in Quebec (see his introductory post for the full story). Though he’s named after Rod Stewart, the shaggy mane is the only thing these two have in common! While Rod Stewart loves to entertain a crowd and trashed many a hotel room in his heyday, Roddy isn’t much for crowds and fully understands the importance of respecting his foster’s home! His time in foster care has been dedicated to providing structure and helping Roddy build his confidence. This big but gentle scruff is ready to find a patient home with lots of love to spare!

Though little of Roddy’s past is known to us, we’re able to pick up on some clues based on his behaviours. Roddy is definitely a shy guy. He doesn’t love meeting other dogs or strangers – his instinct is to freeze, tuck his tail and remain alert. If anyone walks too closely, Roddy is keen to get right outta there and head back home. That said, it’s pretty clear that Roddy doesn’t have a mean bone in his body and, with proper opportunities to socialize in a setting where he feels safe, Roddy may very well love to make some doggy friends! Back home, he has no problem showing off his goofy side. Roddy is very playful with his foster and has taken on the important task of experimenting with various dog toys to see which he prefers. So far, rubber toys filled with treats has taken the top spot!

As much as he is learning to love toys, Roddy is a way bigger fan of attention and, as such, sticks very close to his foster! Roddy loves when the close proximity turns into an opportunity for cuddles, head rubs, belly scratches, head scritches … the list goes on! Stare at him too long and this guy will flop over for some tummy rubs! What he lacks in confidence outside the home he makes up for with his affectionate nature!

We know that Roddy has lived with other dogs before, so a home with another dog may be a good fit – a doggo friend could have confidence-boosting side effects! High on Roddy’s forever home checklist is a calm and patient family, preferably with an address outside the city. Roddy is much more comfortable in quiet spaces where he can sniff and explore, and where he’s less likely to bump into any strangers. Of course, it is important that Roddy’s family help him learn that the world isn’t such a scary place. Right now, it’s baby steps, but with consistency and patience, Roddy may just learn to love a crowd one day … or at least be okay to share the sidewalk with a few passerbys!

Roddy is potty trained, learning to like his crate, neutered, microchipped and up to date with his vaccines. His latest visit to the vet revealed that he is a perfectly healthy mutt!

This once scared and shutdown guy has been quick to share his goofy side with his foster. We know that there’s so much more under that scruffy surface and we can’t wait to hear how Roddy continues to grow with his adoptive family!

SOCIABILITY: Humans (adult; not kid-tested but likely better suited to a home with older, dog-savvy children), dogs and cats (intrigued but nervous)
ENERGY: Medium
QUIRKS: If you look at him for longer than five seconds, he flops right down to his side!
TRAINING NEEDS: Continued basic obedience, leash skills, continued socialization and confidence-building
MEDICAL NEEDS: None
WEIGHT: 77lbs
FOSTER LOCATION: Toronto