PLEASE READ TO UNDERSTAND HOWIE’S SPECIAL NEEDS (behavioral)

While visiting a high kill county shelter so full, dogs were in overflow crates, we spotted Howie and knew we had to come back if we found a foster. Thankfully when someone saw his precious face and short little legs, they offered to foster and Howie officially joined TFDH in June-25! We would have never have guessed the roller coaster we’d be on since.

Howie is estimated to be around 1 year old and is currently around 35lbs. For fun, we did a DNA test that confirmed he’s 55% Basset Hound and 14% Dachshund. That mix explains his short stocky build and possibly his attitude.

Long story short - we don’t know why Howie is such an anxious guy. Maybe its past trauma or under socialization or maybe he was just born that way. Unfortunately, that has manifested with not only GI issues but occasional fear based aggression. We’ve consulted a handful of vets to rule out any medical causes and have sought guidance from professional dog trainers with extensive experience. He’s had a consistent foster home for the last 6 months that have poured their heart and soul in to trying to figure out how best to help Howie. Thanks to that effort (& daily anxiety medicine) there has been progress. Every day his triggers are better understood and while we wish his behavior challenges were as simple as guarding his food, there are moments that have reinforced our commitment that we’re giving him our best.

Howie is happiest in a quiet, predictable environment. He is very food motivated so has picked up “sit” & “wait” amongst other basic commands. He walks great on a leash but with short legs he doesn’t need to go far. He absolutely loves his crate and it’s honestly where he’s most relaxed. Howie loves playing with toys and in particular chewing on bones. On the rare occasion he pauses, you can find him on his dog bed or getting pets on the couch if only for a few fleeting minutes. Howie can be rather vocal but thankfully that expression allows us to understand when he’s unhappy or overstimulated.

To be honest, we don’t know the next steps for Howie. We know it’ll take an above average dog savvy person that doesn’t easily scare to have an interest in working with a dog like Howie (seeking a dog professional or experience with fear based aggression). His “special needs” aren’t always visible but they deserve & require just as much patience & advocacy for a happy & long life. If you feel that could be you, please reach out. We’d be happy to share more.

Howie is up to date on core vaccinations, kept on flea/tick/heartworm prevention, and has been neutered and microchipped.

His adoption fee is $350.