Bear
MALE | BORN APPROX AUGUST 2023 | LAB X STAFFY
LOCATED IN AUCKLAND
đť Meet Bear! đť
Part Labrador. Part Staffy. Part socially awkward potato. 100% good boy. â¤ď¸
Bear is an introvert. Not the antisocial kind, more the "I'd rather observe the party from the corner before deciding if any of you are worth talking to" kind. đ
You know that person who turns up to a party, stands awkwardly near the snacks for the first hour, then ends up being the funniest person in the room?
That's Bear.
đž THE FIRST IMPRESSION
When Bear meets new people, he's not going to launch himself into your arms, declare his undying love and ask if he can move in.
He's more likely to hang back, assess the situation and quietly review your credentials.
Are you trustworthy? Are you nice? Do you have snacks? Most importantly, are you going to make things weird by insisting on a hug before we've even been introduced?
Bear likes to take his time, thank you very much.
â¤ď¸ BUT ONCE YOU'RE IN...
Congratulations! You've successfully passed Bear's very thorough friendship application process.
And the prize? A ridiculously affectionate, happy-go-lucky, loving goofball who thinks you're pretty much the greatest thing since someone invented the tennis ball.
Once Bear feels safe and comfortable, his whole personality comes out. He's social, caring, playful and absolutely loves being part of his people's lives.
He's got that wonderful Labrador/Staffy combination of big softie meets lovable clown.
And before anyone starts playing "guess the breed", we've actually had his DNA tested. Lab/Staffy confirmed! đ§Ź
đ THE SOCIAL SCENE
Bear enjoys the company of other dogs, although sometimes the social calendar can get a little overwhelming.
He's the guy who likes his friends but occasionally needs to step outside for some fresh air and a moment to himself.
With patient introductions, clear guidance and people who understand his need to take things at his own pace, Bear can really shine.
đ THE OTHER ANIMALS
Livestock? Yep, Bear has been around them and is comfortable having them nearby.
Birds? Not particularly interesting. Apparently, Bear has more important things to think about.
Cats? Absolutely not.
Bear has reviewed the feline application and unfortunately decided they're not a good fit for his lifestyle. No cats in his forever home, please. đ
đĄ THE PERFECT HOME
Bear needs people who understand that confidence isn't something you can rush.
He doesn't need someone to force him into every social situation or expect him to be everyone's best friend on day one.
He needs patience, consistency, gentle guidance and people who will celebrate the little wins as his confidence grows.
Someone who understands that the best relationships aren't always instant.
Sometimes they're built slowly, one tail wag, one cuddle and one slightly awkward introduction at a time.
â¤ď¸ WHY WE LOVE HIM
Because there's something incredibly special about a dog who takes his time to trust you.
When Bear finally decides you're his person, you know you've earned something pretty wonderful.
And underneath that slightly shy exterior is a big-hearted, affectionate, fun-loving boy who has so much happiness to share.
Bear might not be the life of the party when you first meet him.
But give him time, and you might just discover he's the best company you've ever had.
đť Bear is ready to find his people. Could you be the ones who bring out his inner party animal?
Further Info
Good with dogs: Yes
Good with cats: No
Good with other animals: Good with livestock
Good with kids: No
Energy Levels: Med - High
Home Experience Level: Experienced
Health: Healthy
Weight: Large dog
A Note on Training and Adopting Our Dogs
Our dogs are wonderful, and we invest a great deal of time and effort into their training and preparation. However, no dog is âperfectly trainedâ or ready to adopt without any ongoing work.
All dogs go through normal life stages and changes â puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, aging, moving homes, and adapting to new environments. Any of these can lead to stress, uncertainty, or moments of testing boundaries.
Because of this, ongoing training is essential. Training isnât a one-off task; itâs a continual process that helps you understand your dogâs needs, support them through transitions, and set everyone up for long-term success.
We would expect adopters to maintain the training weâve started and seek further guidance if needed. Weâre always happy to help with information and recommendations for trainers, and provide advice during the trial and adoption process also.
Can't adopt Bear? You can still help.
Although we charge a small adoption fee, this doesn't generally cover the costs of us getting our dogs ready for adoption. Desexing, grooms, vet care, vaccinations, registration, training and variety of other things can go into these dogs. If you'd like to help either on a one off or regular basis we would be grateful for your donation.
