Topaz's Web Page

Description:
** WE ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR TOPAZ, BUT PLEASE KEEP AN EYE ON OUR WEBSITE FOR NEW DOGS. **
Topaz is a toy poodle with the most gorgeous topaz colored eyes and liver nose. At 4-yrs-old, he is at that fun age where he is still active and loves to play, but will also be content to snuggle in your lap. He does have some issues we're working on, and so his ideal home will be patient and dog-savvy, with enough experience to know how to walk that fine line between encouragement and clear expectations for what is acceptable behavior.

This little guy is a wonderful young dog who really is all about his person and wants nothing more than to be carried around, held and snuggled, or to be laying on his person's lap. He will nestle in just like a baby, and stay forever if you let him. He definitely has that potential to be spoiled-- rotten-- but we'd much rather see him continue to grow and reach his potential in his forever home.

Before coming into rescue, Topaz was not really well socialized, so he needs support in the form of a gentle, loving and patient, but firm leader in his life to continue showing him that new things are not scary. His first reaction to anything new is to bark - alot! If you have neighbors close by who do not appreciate barking, Topaz may not be the best dog for you.

He does pretty well here in his foster home with several other little dogs, but has shown signs that he wants to be the leader and doesn't like a bossy house buddy, so we think he would be best suited as an only dog or possibly a smaller, well-balanced dog or two would be considered. He does like to play and cuddle with other dogs, but will feed off of their vibes.

We are also looking for a home without children, although with work, he could do fine with occasional visitors. He did well with my very gentle and dog saavy 9 year old grandson after a slow and positive first meeting. Initially, he barked like crazy and backed away. He actually barks at most new people, so slow and positive introductions are very important for Topaz.

He has not mastered potty training as of yet. He is smart, so he will probably get better. Also, we are working on his manners. In his former life, we don't think anyone taught him doggie etiquite; so he wants to steal other dogs' treats, and he wants to rush out the door when it's opened rather than waiting. He is learning, but his adopter will need to continue.

Fenced in yard is a must, because he has not pottied on leash during our walks. And, his owner must be committed to going outside with him every time and plan on spending a bit of time......he does not like to be outside alone. He does do pretty well in his crate, but is not a dog that can be left in a crate for longer periods of time - an hour or two at the most. Also, he does well on car rides.

He is a good leash walker as long as the cars don't get too close, walks in quiet areas are perfect for Topaz.

He is being fostered northeast of Pittsburgh, PA. He's up to date on vaccines, neutered, chipped, and a healthy boy. All he needs now is a loving forever home.