Z loves any soft surface she can find to lay on. Be it a dog bed, snuffle mat, couch, or bed (if you allow), she will snuggle up on it to snooze. In the house, that is mostly how she spends her time: sleeping the day away. While squeak toys will initially get her attention, Zelda has shown no interest in playing with toys. She has started to check out the snuffle mat though!  Zelda also loves being pet & scratched; she will literally close her eyes and just melt into you.      

Z is definitely an outdoor girl. She LOVES the snow & will roll around in it and find the deepest snow to run in. She is learning to play with her foster brother and will chase him around the yard (she still doesn’t understand his obsession with the frisbee, though). Zelda loves going for walks, though some leash training will be needed. While she mostly entertains herself in the yard, she does bark some at people or dogs passing by - which can likely be improved with training. She has shown no propensity for running or fleeing, or escaping from our fenced in yard.  

Zelda has had only one accident in the house, so seems to be house trained as long as you let her out regularly. She sleeps through the night in her crate, only whining/barking if she needs to go to the bathroom. After you let her out, she goes right back to sleep until morning. We have also been feeding her in her crate and putting her in there for short periods of time when we leave. She happily goes in, especially with a bully stick or greenie as a treat.  

She is a quick learner and with consistent training will make some real progress. She is very motivated by high-value treats (we used shredded chicken) and is learning to sit and come when called.  When Zelda met family members and their small dog, she was super friendly- she will likely do okay with meeting new people and dogs in certain environments. She did well in the car and should learn to love car rides, especially with another dog by her side. 

Zelda is extremely timid at first, and would benefit from having another dog to show her how to interact, play, and enjoy life. She can be afraid of loud noises, quick movements, and new spaces.  However, she has really come out of her shell already! We know she will be the best dog for a family that can provide a safe, stable, and fun environment for her.      

*Zelda is currently in heat & has an appointment to be spayed in March.