Gary

Gary / M / 1Y / 11lbs / Maltese mix / Fostered in Toronto 

If you're looking for a calm, cuddly companion who wants nothing more than to be glued to your side, Gary might be the one for you. This sweet old soul has striking eyes, a gentle nature, and a whole lot of love to give.

Gary's favourite things include snuggling (the closer, the better), strolls on the beach, and meeting new people. If there's a lap available, he'll happily climb right up. Don't expect games of fetch, though. Toys, stuffies, balls and tug ropes just aren't his thing, and he's perfectly content simply being next to his human.

Gary is quiet, calm, and non-destructive. He's friendly with everyone he meets, polite with other dogs (he'll have a good sniff but doesn't really engage), and great with cats and other small animals, showing no interest in chasing. He'd do well with older, calm kids. He's a creature of routine and is wary of change, so a predictable household is ideal. And a fun fact: he climbs furniture like a billy goat and has some serious jumping ability!

Low to medium energy. He's just as happy with a walk around the block as an hour-long stroll. He gets 5 to 6 walks a day, since he only pees while out on a walk (not in the backyard). Gary has had just one minor accident since coming into care and doesn't use pee pads. He's very good on a leash, doesn't pull, and shows no reactivity, though he does stop frequently to mark and read the "pee-mail." He's excellent in the car and will happily sit quietly and doze off.

Gary has separation anxiety and can become panicked (and yes, he can howl!) when left alone. His foster family has been gradually building up his alone time, and he's currently managing up to an hour in a gated kitchen. He's not crate trained and is quite suspicious of the crate, but they're working on introducing it as a safe space. He's also practicing recall and basic commands like "sit."

Gary's ideal home is someone who is home most of the time, with a quiet house and a steady routine. Because of his separation anxiety, he would do best in a house versus a condo/apartment. A true velcro dog, he needs an adopter who doesn't mind a shadow and who is happy to share the bed with him! He would not be the right fit for a home with young, playful children or for someone seeking an active, energetic dog.

If you are interested in adopting Gary, please complete an adoption application on our website.