Bella

The shelter named me Mayflower, but my foster mom calls me Bella because I’m such a pretty girl! You could name me anything you like and I’ll quickly learn my new name.

I’m a 3 year old shepherd mix who was found as a stray.

Instead of getting back to my family, I ended up in a loud, scary shelter.

Once I was rescued from there, my true, sweet personality could shine! My foster mom says: Bella is a smart dog who will quickly become devoted to her people.

She’s young and high energy, so if you want a companion for runs or long hikes she’s your girl! She’s also fine with our one mile walk a day and curling up next to the couch.

She’s housetrained, takes treats gently, and is generally a wonderful companion.

Her shepherd intelligence and desire to please make it easy to teach her new behaviors.

(Plus she’s treat motivated.) By her second day in my home, she learned to sit and wait at the door to be leashed, and not to go out the open door until I said “Ok”.

Bella can learn anything you’re willing to teach her, and training classes would be wonderful for bonding.

She’s naturally protective, so needs someone who is confident enough to assure her that’s not necessary.

She will be relieved to know that you’re in charge, so she’s safe and can relax.

She’s young and has a lot of energy, so currently needs to be introduced to other dogs slowly – they may take offense at her exuberant approach.

Not tested with cats or small children; given her size (about 50 lbs), energy level and the shepherd prey drive I’d suggest caution and careful supervision (which should be true with all dogs.) Despite having been a stray, Bella doesn’t exhibit any issues around food.

She’ll leave food in her dish, and lets me take her full dish away.

She's getting more comfortable being in her crate, but not yet happy with the door closed.

Overall, we’re working on making her more confident being alone, as she’s clearly afraid of being abandoned or lost again.

Bella’s a wonderful, happy, healthy young dog who was almost killed for being afraid in an overcrowded shelter.

If you give her a chance, she’ll be your best friend and devoted companion for the rest of her life.