Meet Benson!
A gentle five-year-old mixed breed currently in Street, MD, whose lineage includes American Pitbull Terrier, German Shepherd, Chow Chow, and other breeds, and whose soft cream coat and soulful eyes tell stories of loyalty, sensitivity, and quiet devotion. Benson is a large, 75-pound companion who carries himself with a thoughtful charm, blending the affectionate nature of a retriever-like appearance with the intelligence and awareness of his unique breed mix.
Benson thrives as a constant companion, happiest when
he is
close to his people, whether joining for a car ride, lounging by the window like a curious cat, or snuggling in during quiet evenings. He is a calm, low-energy companion, more than content to nap at your side or relax while you go about your day rather than demand constant activity. He knows an impressive list of commands like sit, stay, come, and helpful focus cues like "leave it" and "look at me," along with sweet ones like kisses and snuggle, making him a joy for someone who appreciates a dog who loves to learn and connect. His favorite pastimes are low-key too: enrichment games, a good swim, a sturdy ball to chase, and relaxing with a favorite chew.
Benson may take a couple of minutes to warm up to some people, but once he connects, he is deeply devoted, incredibly loving, and attentive with impeccable house manners. This intuitive boy is deeply in tune with emotions and forms strong bonds with his caregiver. He has a special way of offering comfort, gently leaning in or curling up beside you when you need it most.
Benson would benefit from a calm, structured environment with a securely fenced yard that is at least six feet tall,
as he has been known to jump fences, where he can feel safe, supported, and understood.
In his first weeks in a new home, he does best kept on leash even within the fenced yard and around doorways while he settles in. His instinct under stress is to get back to his person rather than to wander off, so these simple precautions keep him safe while he bonds. He also walks well overall but can pull on leash, so continued guidance and positive reinforcement training will help him stay focused.
Benson is selective with other dogs and can be reactive with unfamiliar ones, and he needs a thoughtful, well-managed environment to feel secure. He is not looking for conflict, though, and he responds well to guidance. He knows "leave it" and engage-and-disengage focus work, and he reliably brings his attention back to his person when another dog passes. While he has experience living with multiple dogs, there has been rising tension with one particular dog in the home that led to a physical altercation. Because of this, Benson would thrive as the only dog in a home, or with a caregiver who can provide very structured, gradual introductions supported by positive reinforcement training. He is not compatible with cats and needs an adult-only home where his sensitive and intuitive nature can shine. Benson takes a daily medication to manage his allergies and support his emotional
balance, a plan established with his behavioral vet,
with a situational calming aid on hand for higher-stress moments like grooming, helping him feel comfortable and at his best each day.
