Meet Tofu!
A thoughtful seven-year-old Australian Cattle Dog currently in Richmond, VA, whose essence is a loyal heart wrapped in a handsome blue mottled coat.
At 49 pounds, Tofu is the kind of companion who forms deep, meaningful bonds with the people he trusts. His journey has shaped him into a sensitive, intelligent boy who thrives when life feels calm, predictable, and secure. Once you are part of his inner circle, you will discover a dog who loves nothing more than being close to his favorite humans, whether that means stretching out beside you on the couch, joining you in the garden, or heading out for an exciting outdoor adventure!
True to his breed, Tofu is exceptionally smart and enjoys having a job to do. He has completed formal training and proudly knows commands including sit, down, place, roll, heel, come, shake, and high five. He responds beautifully to structure and clear guidance, and having a confident caregiver helps him relax and feel at ease.
When it comes to fun, Tofu is easy to entertain! Chew toys are among his greatest joys, and he can happily toss them in the air, carry them around, and create his own games. He is also an excellent hiking, walking, and running companion who loves exploring the outdoors right alongside his people.
Tofu is looking for a calm, adult-only home with experienced pet parents who understand anxious or reactive dogs and are committed to thoughtful management and positive reinforcement. He is not comfortable around children and should live in a home without kids, as the unpredictability and activity that naturally come with young children can increase his anxiety. Since the arrival of a baby in his current family, his anxiety has increased, and he has lunged toward the child on a couple of occasions, leading his family to recognize that he would be happier in a quieter environment tailored to his needs.
Tofu can also be cautious around unfamiliar people and prefers slow, structured introductions. He has had several fear-based nip incidents when strangers attempted to make direct eye contact with him or pet him before he felt comfortable. He consistently gives warning signs beforehand. When introductions are handled thoughtfully and his need for space is honored, Tofu settles in well and often chooses to quietly observe or simply ignore visitors while he becomes comfortable.
One of Tofu’s most charming qualities is his flexibility. He can spend the day conquering a trail or happily nap at your feet while you work. He gets along well with most other dogs, can live with a confident cat, rides nicely in the car, and loves being included in everyday life!
