Sammy is a handsome black 10 year old Miniature Schnauzer. He was born in October 2007 and lived through an abusive past that has left him fearful and unsure about people. In 2014 he was adopted by a couple who worked with him for 3 years on improving his behavior and gaining his trust. Unfortunately they had a baby and he could not be trusted around young kids who would not know how to best approach him and had to give him up.
Sammy is sensitive to loud noises and simple things like picking up objects or taking off shoes. Most likely these are things he associates with his abusive past. Petting him under his chin is the best way to approach him. Over the head or down his back makes him uncomfortable. He will allow you to pick him up or lead him by his collar if he’s aware of you approaching. He definitely prefers women over men and gets along with the other female mini Schnauzer in his foster home. He tends to be more reactive toward dogs that come into his foster home but going on a couple of long walks together first has helped. He passes other dogs on walks calmly unless the other dog is overly excited then he can get a little vocal. We are sure to let other walkers know his past and that it’s best not to let their dogs just run up to him. Sammy would be best suited for a quiet, calm household with no kids around and not a lot of dog visitors. Someone who has experience working with abused dogs and who has a patient but firm demeanor to continue working with him on basic training & gaining his trust would be ideal. He loves sitting next to people on the couch but prefers to not be petted or snuggled. He enjoys being close but on his own terms. Light petting and playfulness improved significantly after a month or so of settling in.
~ Sammy loves walking on a leash daily and rarely pulls unless he sees something exciting like a squirrel.
~ Rides great in a car – just lays down calmly in the backseat.
~ He is house-trained and can use a dog door after a few days of adapting.
~ Enjoys sunbathing in the yard.
~ Doesn’t play with toys much but occasionally gets excited by a squeaker toy if he’s feeling frisky.
~ Calm in the sink while getting a bath and the mobile groomer had no issues grooming him.
~ Eats well with our other dog – no food aggression observed.
~ Quiet/very little barking unless someone is at the door.
~ Goes up/down carpeted stairs okay but wood stairs he is unsure about.
~ Sleeps in his own bed at night but has been allowed on couches and enjoys laying next to his people.
~ Enthusiastic eater and enjoys snacks of vegetables and occasional chewy sticks.
~ Likes to follow you around the house and always know what you’re doing and where you are.