Meet Rufus: 3 years old, 65 pounds, and sometimes a bit of a doofus.
Rufus is an energetic shepherd mix with a big personality and seemingly endless supply of enthusiasm. He’s athletic, outgoing, social, and genuinely joyful about life. When he comes in from the backyard, he barrels through the door like Kramer on Seinfeld —skidding all the way across the room before he can stop.
As his foster mom, I have to be honest: Rufus can be a lot. At 77, I find taking him for a walk can feel more like water skiing—without the water. Two hands on the leash, flying across the ground, trying to keep up or slow him down. For that reason, I would recommend a home with adults only or with older children who won’t be knocked off balance by his excitement.
Also, he’s recently decided that a 5-foot fence is just a suggestion. He can climb my 5-foot horse panels with ease -- although, thankfully, he does seem to be stymied by a 6-foot fence. So a secure, tall fence is definitely a must for this boy.
But before you decide Rufus is a total chaos agent, I can tell you he also has a calmer side. And, in that mode, he can be the gentlest, most loving dog you could ask for. When we sit together on a bench under the trees, my arm around his shoulders, scratching his chest and resting my cheek against his, those moments are gold. And I believe there will be more and more of them as he matures and learns to settle into life with his forever person.
In sum, like most intelligent, active breeds, Rufus needs daily exercise, fun activities that give his brain positive stimulation, and consistent guidance to help him become his best self. He’s still learning that not every moment needs to be lived at full speed—and that sometimes having four feet on the ground is perfectly okay.
Put bluntly, Rufus won't be the right fit for everyone. But for someone who enjoys being active, appreciates curiosity and a passion for life, and finds satisfaction in helping a smart, loyal dog grow into his best self, Rufus could be an exceptional fit.
He may occasionally make you wonder what on earth he was thinking. He will probably make you laugh. He will keep you on your toes. And when he finally settles beside you, leans into your shoulder, and puts his whole heart in your hands, you'll know exactly why you chose him.
