Special note: We are looking for a foster or foster-to-adopt home willing to help Toby become the best dog he can be.

Even though Toby is a full-grown adult Springer, he acts very much like a puppy, likely because nobody trained or socialized him well during puppyhood. He ended up in a shelter and had to stay calm while undergoing heartworm treatment in ESRA’s care. All these things took their toll on this young man, so we are looking for an experienced foster or foster-to-adopt home to help him make a fresh start and catch up on those early lessons he missed. He is smart and eager to learn.

Toby loves his walks and enjoys running, sniffing, and chasing squirrels in a securely fenced yard. He is a fan of soft toys (though they may not survive him) and large Nylabone-type chews. Once he gets to know people, he is very affectionate and cuddly and will hop right in your lap, whether he’s invited or not. He gets along with his foster sister, but his intense and rough play style can be overwhelming. When he gets too “amped up,” he gets a time-out in his crate. Therefore, he would do best with another energetic young dog of similar size or larger. He does not like cats and would overwhelm smaller or senior dogs.

He is learning some basic commands and getting more comfortable staying home when his foster parents need to go out. He is good in the crate and will enter if a treat is thrown in.  He barks for a minute, then settles, with the resident dog lying near him.  He also sleeps in the crate in the master bedroom at night. Toby is housetrained but needs plenty of potty breaks and a quick trip outside first thing in the morning. He is an excellent passenger in the car and has not chewed or been destructive in the house. Like many Springers, he does need to learn that food on the kitchen counter is not intended for him. Because he sometimes does not like his tail or the top of his head handled, he needs an all-adult family willing to continue the hard work his current foster family has done.

Toby had a rough start in life, but he is young, enthusiastic, and trainable, with a bright future. He is very much a work in progress. Toby needs a dog-savvy family committed to continued training and guidance. With time and patience, he will be ready to live his best life with his Forever Family.

If you’re interested in adopting Toby, please submit an Online Adoption Application. It is always the first step in our adoption process.