Cleo, a small 1 year old female

Description

**CLEO the Italian Greyhound Mix Cleo is a sensitive, sweet girl who likes to take her time getting to know new people. She can be shy at first, and the best way to earn her trust is to let her approach you on her own terms. For first meetings, it helps to sit quietly nearby and allow Cleo to come to you at her own pace. Offering her a few small treats and speaking in a gentle, calm voice can also help her feel more at ease. Once she decides you're the safe person for her, you'll discover a completely different side of her. Cleo becomes incredibly affectionate and loves to give kisses, curl up for snuggles, and soak up all the love and attention she can get. Because Cleo is highly sensitive to her environment, she thrives with patient people who understand that she may need a quiet space to decompress and feel secure. She forms strong bonds with her people and truly benefits from dedicated one-on-one time, whether that's a walk, a structured game, or simply spending quality time together. She has a playful side and enjoys engaging in fun, interactive activities with her favorite person. Cleo's behavior consultation noted that she benefits from having a designated safe space where she can reduce anxiety, decompress from household stimulation, and get uninterrupted rest. An ideal safe space for Cleo might be a cozy crate with soft bedding, a quiet room away from household traffic, or a comfy bed set up in a low-activity area of your home. Make sure her space is somewhere she can retreat to whenever she needs some time alone, and always keep it stocked with her favorite blanket or toys for added comfort. Cleo does well with children and generally gets along with dogs her own size. As with any new relationship, slow, thoughtful introductions are important to help her feel comfortable and set everyone up for success. If you are introducing Cleo to children, begin by ensuring the first meeting takes place in a calm, quiet space. Remind children to let Cleo approach them, keep their voices soft, and move gently. Reward Cleo with treats and praise when she interacts positively. For dog introductions, start with a walk outdoors on neutral ground with both dogs on leash, keeping a relaxed pace and allowing them to observe each other from a comfortable distance. Gradually decrease distance as both dogs seem at ease, and allow brief sniffing if body language stays positive. Monitor all initial interactions closely and separate the dogs if anyone seems overwhelmed or tense. She tends to prefer being the dominant female in her environment, so adopters should be mindful of household dynamics and continue to respect her need for personal space and boundaries. Cleo can be nervous in certain situations, particularly at veterinary appointments, and she does not enjoy car rides. In fact, she is prone to car sickness, so a family that understands and accommodates these challenges will help her feel more comfortable and secure. For car rides, it helps to keep trips as short as possible and provide her with a familiar blanket or favorite toy in the car to create a sense of security. Giving her a chance to take short practice rides that end with something positive, like a walk or a treat, may help build her confidence over time. Some adopters have success with natural calming aids or anxiety wraps for sensitive dogs like Cleo. To help minimize car sickness, try to avoid feeding her right before a trip, keep the car well-ventilated, and take breaks during longer rides so she can stretch her legs and relax.    ❤️ *Cleo isn't the kind of dog who loves everyone immediately. She's the kind of dog who chooses her people, and once she chooses you, you'll have her whole heart.* Adopting Cleo: