walter

Meet Walter! ❤️

Hi, my name is Walter, and I’m a big sweetheart who is learning that the world can be a pretty wonderful place when you have people you can trust. I’ve been slowly coming out of my shell in my foster home, and while I can be cautious and shy at first, I’m making progress every day. I may need a little time to feel comfortable in a new environment, but once I know I’m safe, my loving and affectionate personality really starts to shine.

One of my favorite things in the whole world is getting attention from my people. I absolutely LOVE being pet, and belly scratches are pretty much the way to my heart! I also have a funny habit of making myself into a lap dog. I may be a big guy, but that certainly doesn’t stop me from wanting to climb up next to you and cuddle. If you’re looking for a companion who will happily snuggle up with you and soak up all the love you’re willing to give, I might just be your guy.

I also really enjoy having canine friends. I love other dogs and can be playful with them. I currently live with two small dogs in my foster home, and I’ve been very respectful of their size and space. Having another confident, friendly dog around may even help me continue to build my confidence. I’m also okay with cats, although I sometimes forget that they aren’t supposed to be a fun game of chase! Because of that, any cats in my future home would need proper supervision and introductions.

I’m becoming more interested in toys, too! I’m still discovering what toys are all about, but large plush toys have definitely caught my attention. I’m sure with time, patience, and encouragement, I’ll continue to discover more things that I enjoy.

I’m also starting to enjoy going on walks. There is still some work to do in the leash-training department, though! I’m an extremely strong boy, and when I see another dog, I can get VERY excited and want to pull toward them. My foster family is helping me work on my leash manners, and I’ll need someone who is patient, consistent, and willing to continue that training with me. I already know some basic commands, including sit, go potty, outside, and kennel, so I’m definitely capable of learning and continuing to improve.

One thing that is especially important for me is having access to a secure, fenced yard every day. I absolutely love the freedom of being able to safely explore and enjoy a fenced-in space, and it’s something I would really benefit from having in my forever home. A fenced yard will also give me a great opportunity to get exercise, sniff around, play, and simply enjoy being a dog without the pressure of a leash.

I can be sensitive to overwhelming commotion, and busy or chaotic environments can be scary for me. I would do best with a family who understands that I may need some time to adjust and decompress when I first arrive. A calm, patient home where I can settle in at my own pace would help me feel secure and allow my true personality to come out. I don’t need someone to rush me—I just need someone willing to give me the time and reassurance I deserve.

I’m still healing physically, too. I’m currently finishing antibiotics after having an abscess that has cleared up. I have some scars around my neck, as well as a few scabs that are continuing to heal. My elbows also have some rough spots and scabs that should continue to improve with time and proper care.

Despite everything I’ve been through, I’m an incredibly loving boy. I’m learning to trust, learning to play, learning to enjoy walks, and learning that I can relax and be loved. I have so much potential, and I’m already showing what a wonderful companion I can be.

I’m looking for a forever family who will be patient with me, give me time to adjust, continue helping me with my leash skills, and appreciate all the love and cuddles I have to offer. In return, I’ll give you a whole lot of affection, companionship, and probably more than a few attempts to convince you that I absolutely belong in your lap!

If you’re looking for a big-hearted sweetheart who may need a little patience at first but has so much love to give ❤️

Walter may need a little time to show you everything he has to offer, but underneath that cautious exterior is a loving, affectionate boy who just wants to feel safe, loved, and included. Give him the chance to come out of his shell, and you may discover your new best friend. ❤️

Please note that some of our dogs are obtained from shelters, surrendered to our care, or released from breeders. Each animal's bio is based on our experience of the animal within our care, an educated guess based on physical characteristics, temperament and information shared. Each dog receives basic grooming when coming into rescue, but for some dogs they have not received grooming attention until recently and grooming may be required shortly after adoption. This will be at the adopter’s expense, so we encourage you to research the breed and be prepared for grooming expenses. Underdog cannot guarantee hypoallergenic or non-shedding qualities of any dogs in our rescue. Some of the animals come from situations where they are lacking experience in a home and confidence in humans. In turn, they require another companion dog and/or a fenced in yard in their forever home in order for them to feel safe. If you are interested in a particular dog whose bio states those needs and do not currently have them, please understand that your home might not be the right fit. Please use the filter on our Adoptable Dogs page to find the perfect match for your home.

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