Zen (ADOPTION PENDING) is a very calm, quiet, low-medium energy Australian kelpie and cattle dog mix. He weights 45 lbs. and is about 2-3 years old. Zen is a sweet, gentle boy, described by everyone who has met him as being extremely "polite" and well mannered. Although mostly a low key dog, when his people come home, he will greet them with excitement, and make a happy gurgling sound like Chewbacca in Star Wars. As with most cattle dogs, Zen wants to be with and follow his people whenever possible. He is a super and loving companion, who will find a nice spot to lay down where ever you are.
This boy is friendly with all people, but does not immediately approach new people. He will slowly make his way over and just hang out. He is also excellent with all dogs. When he first meets new dogs, he may nervously raises his hackles for a few seconds. He plays nicely with all other dogs. When his fosters' smaller dogs were a bit pushy and aggressive with him, Zen would just back away. He has also met young children and is calm and solid with them. We have not seen him around cats.
Zen enjoys balls and playing fetch, and chewing on bully sticks or pressed rawhide bones. He does NOT guard food or resources, and again, is very polite if you take or move something he has. Zen is also NOT mouthy at all. He also rides very quietly in a car. When out on walks, Zen likes to sniff and explore, and may pull a little, but not very hard.
While he is a calm dog, Zen still has his fears. If unsure of a new situation and strange people, he sits quietly and shivers, appearing a little nervous or stressed. Once he understands a routine and that he will be safe, he will relax. Zen has only barked once when he was extremely upset and scared.
Although our boy is very easy going and compliant, he also has his moments, and unique quirks. He enjoys going into his crate with a bully stick or something to chew, but objects to sleeping in a crate at night. If he's left alone in a fenced yard for even a few minutes, and finds something, such as a planter box, covered trash can, etc. along the fence that he can leap onto, he will use it as a springboard to get over the fence. Once he is out, he will just hang out in a nearby neighbors front yard. Also, while Zen seems to be housebroken, the first time he enters a house he may try to lift his leg somewhere. If you catch him and stop him, he won't try again, and will be fine in the house. Zen knows several commands, sit, lay down, and shake.
Everyone who has met this boy, has absolutely adored and raved about his wonderful manners and solid personality. He needs an equally solid new home, with supportive and loving people, who can help him overcome the fears he seems to harbor and internalize.