Spam is a small Chihuahua mix (believed to potentially be Chihuahua, Yorkshire, Beagle, Miniature Pinscher and Dachshund) with a big personality and an even bigger bark—at least for the first few minutes. He may sound like a tough guy when he’s nervous, but it’s all fear, not aggression. Once he realizes you’re safe, he softens instantly and becomes a sweet, affectionate little companion who reaches out with his paw and looks right into your eyes as if to say, “Okay… I trust you now.”
Spam is still learning that the world isn’t such a scary place. New people, new environments, and unfamiliar situations can be overwhelming for him. His initial greeting can be intense—deep barking, growling, and lots of bravado—but once he has a moment to settle, he’s a completely different dog: gentle, loving, and eager to be near his person. Sometimes, he surprises everyone and warms up instantly—like recently when he climbed right into a visitor’s lap—but other times, especially with new or younger people, he still needs time and space to feel safe. The good news is that he continues to make steady progress and is gaining confidence more and more every day.
Once comfortable, Spam is incredibly affectionate and wants to be with his people as much as possible. He’s happiest curled up in a lap, tucked under blankets at night, or snoozing under his foster’s desk while she works. He also has a quirky, endearing habit of gently “suckling” on the ears of other dogs—a little comfort behavior that perfectly reflects his sensitive nature.
One of the biggest changes for Spam has been his leash skills. He has blossomed into an excellent walker and truly enjoys his walks. He checks in frequently with his person, makes wonderful eye contact, and will even sit politely when you stop walking. While he still prefers quieter areas without lots of strangers or commotion, he has proven that he can successfully walk and potty on leash. Because he can still be nervous and squirmy when having his harness and collar put on, a secure home setup and careful handling are important. He absolutely adores running and zooming around a safe fenced yard, but a fence is no longer an absolute requirement for the right patient home committed to continuing his progress.
Spam came from a home with many dogs and does well with both big and small dogs after a proper introduction. While he can be a bit of a jerk at first (his words, not ours), he settles in quickly and has made great progress—those early spats have mostly disappeared. He recently spent time with a very large, senior Lab and was completely comfortable after the first day.
He is potty trained and does well on a schedule, though like many small male dogs, he may occasionally mark. Spam does wonderfully with his kennel and happily runs in on command, especially at mealtimes. He eats all of his meals in there and often chooses to nap inside it with the door open. At night, though, he much prefers sleeping snuggled up with his people and dog friends. He’s also trustworthy loose in the home when left alone.
Spam has a hilarious, joyful side once he feels safe. Every time his people come home or it’s time for meals, he breaks into a loud, excited “song and dance” routine complete with happy spins, bouncing, jumping, and enthusiastic little noises. It’s impossible not to smile watching him celebrate the people he loves.
He has simple tastes in treats (apples and carrots are favorites!) and finds comfort in routine, companionship, cozy spaces, and being close to his people.
Spam is a spicy little guy with a very tender heart underneath. Beneath all the barking and bravado is a deeply loving, sensitive dog who simply wants to feel safe and understood. With patience, consistency, and a family willing to let him move at his own pace, Spam will reward them with endless loyalty, affection, and plenty of joyful little songs along the way.
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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