Found as a stray in Georgia, 3-year-old Stoney's past is a bit of a mystery, but one thing is for certain: he is a gentle, sweet soul who is ready to give and receive all the love in the world.
Stoney doesn't have an aggressive bone in his body. He adores human attention and wants nothing more than to feel safe and loved. Unlike many typical vocal terriers, Stoney is remarkably quiet! He rarely barks, only occasionally letting out a few woofs at something outside the fence. He gets along with dogs his own size (he weighs nearly 11 lbs.) but does not play with them other than an occasional short game of chase in the yard. Larger dogs make him feel a bit intimidated, so he does best with canine pals near his size. He has not been cat-tested yet.
Stoney's house-training is coming along well. He is still learning his routine and has the occasional accident—mainly first thing in the morning—so a patient adopter who can keep him on a steady schedule will help him cross the finish line. Coming from a stray life, household and outdoor sounds can be overwhelming for him. Loud appliances like vacuum cleaners or hair dryers or even quieter sounds like dinner cooking on the stove can send him cowering into a corner. However, the longer he resides in a home environment and realizes he's safe, the more his confidence is improving. At night, he sleeps quietly in his crate in his foster parent's bedroom, not making a peep until the humans are ready to rise and shine!
Stoney walks nicely on a leash, but if he encounters strange people, unfamiliar dogs, moving cars, or sudden noises, his instinct is to "freeze." Once the perceived danger passes, he resumes walking. He walks right along on quiet nature trails or open fields where he can sniff and explore without the hustle and bustle of traffic, humans, or other dogs.
Because Stoney is so sensitive to noises, he is looking for a gentle, predictable environment in a quiet suburban neighborhood or rural setting with a fenced area for him to feel secure. His ideal home is adult-only (or one with older, calm teenagers) with a parent or parents who are home much of the time to continue building his confidence. Fast-moving, noisy young children would be too overwhelming for him.
Stoney needs an adopter who understands that shy dogs take a little time to bloom. With patience, gentle encouragement, and a safe space, Stoney will prove to be the most loyal, loving companion you could ever ask for. Is Stoney the gentle buddy you've been searching for?
