Toaster

Description

 * This dog will be at the Pet Food Express Pet Fair - San Jose North on Saturday, September 12th and Sunday, September 13th from 10AM–3PM both days (unless adopted prior to the event).  5148 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose All DPS Rescue dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, flea/tick treated, and microchipped prior to adoption.   Adoption fee: $750 Meet Toaster   Toaster is a 10–12 month old, 11-pound Terrier mix with an irresistible puppy face, oversized paws, and spectacular ears that seem to have a personality all their own. When he lies down with his ears standing tall, he looks like a tiny German Shepherd. On walks, those expressive ears move forward and backward like little satellites tracking the world around him.   Toaster may be petite, but he is packed with personality. He is affectionate, playful, observant, and an excellent snuggler—all wrapped up in one very cute package.   From Toasty to Totally Smitten   When Toaster first arrived in his foster home, he was shy and unsure. He kept his distance, declined most treats, and seemed unfamiliar with walking on a leash. It took only a few hours for him to discover that the sofa was a comfortable place to land, and just a few days for his wonderfully loving personality to emerge.   Now, Toaster enjoys following his foster mom from room to room. When she washes dishes or brushes her teeth, he settles nearby and watches intently, as though taking notes so he can try it himself later. He adores belly rubs and readily flips onto his back for them. His favorite position is lying like a baby in someone’s lap while receiving belly rubs until he drifts off to sleep.   Although Toaster loves being close to his people, he also has a pleasantly independent side. He is content to nap in a cozy nook, stretch out on the cool floor, relax on the sofa, or head into the yard for a sunbathing session.   A Day with Toaster   Toaster begins his day around 7:00 a.m. with a trip outside. He enthusiastically eats breakfast with the family between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m., followed by his morning walk at approximately 8:00.   While his foster mom works, Toaster finds a comfortable resting spot under the desk, beneath the bed, in his crate, or on the sofa. He also loves going outside to sunbathe. He may be happily settled on the couch, but the moment he hears his foster mom move, he gets up to investigate what she is doing.   Dinner is served alongside the family between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m., followed by another walk. At night, Toaster sleeps in his crate. He protested occasionally during his first week, but he has adjusted well and will voluntarily curl up in the crate when its door is left open.   Walks and Outdoor Adventures   Toaster has made tremendous progress on leash. He now walks nicely beside his person most of the time, although he may pull a little when something particularly exciting catches his attention. Squirrels are tempting, but he quickly abandons the chase once they escape up a tree.   He loves meeting other dogs and eagerly approaches to say hello without barking. Toaster can be cautious when unfamiliar people approach him, often stepping aside or positioning himself behind his trusted person. Once given time to assess the situation, he approaches at his own pace.   A yard would be a wonderful bonus for this little sun worshipper and zoomie enthusiast, but he could also be happy with a family committed to giving him several walks and outdoor breaks each day.   Friends of All Sizes   Toaster has not lived with another dog in his current foster home, but he has been friendly and enthusiastic when meeting dogs on walks. He could potentially enjoy having a canine companion in his future home.   He has also interacted with children. Even when he feels slightly unsure, he remains patient while they pet him or offer treats. Toaster looks to his trusted adult for reassurance and has not growled or barked at people. Children in his future home should understand how to approach a small, initially cautious dog gently and allow him to make friends at his own speed.   The Best of Both Worlds   Toaster strikes a lovely balance between energetic youngster and professional couch lounger. Outside, he races around the yard doing joyful zoomies. Indoors, he recognizes when his people are busy and quietly settles down for a nap. He has not shown much interest in toys yet, although enrichment activities such as a snuffle mat or a Kong filled with peanut butter can help keep him occupied.   When left home alone, Toaster remains loose in the house and generally waits patiently on the sofa for his family to return. He may whine briefly, but he has not shown signs of significant separation anxiety.   Home Skills   Toaster is housetrained, crate-trained, and knows how to use a doggy door. He is also an exceptionally quiet dog. In ten days, his foster family heard him bark only two or three times, generally when a loud dog came directly alongside the fence. Visitors have commented that he is so quiet they sometimes forget there is a dog in the house!   As a young dog, Toaster still needs help learning which belongings are not meant for chewing. When bored, he has chewed cords, a woven basket, and shoes brought in from outside. His future family should puppy-proof carefully, keep tempting objects out of reach, and provide safe chews and enrichment to redirect him.   Toaster’s Ideal Home   Toaster could thrive in many kinds of homes with people who will give him time to become comfortable, continue building his confidence, and include him in their daily lives. He would be delighted to have a yard for sunbathing and zoomies, regular walks to explore the neighborhood, and possibly another friendly dog to keep him company.   Most of all, Toaster is looking for someone who wants a devoted little companion. Give him the chance to trust you, and he will happily become your tiny shadow, loyal observer, sofa snuggler, and personal belly-rub enthusiast.