Jack - UPDATE

Pet Name: Jack
Breed: Appenzeller (Appenzell Mountain Dog)
Age: 2.5 Years
Gender: Male
Altered: No, Preneuter!
Good with Cats: Unknown
Good with Dogs: Yes
Good with Kids: Unknown, wasn't exposed to kids.
Energy Level: Medium High
Their Story:
Jack was surrendered to the shelter in October of 08 because he makes people nervous. He was protective of the home, barking and growling at visitors. Simple training and getting neutered will greatly decrease, if not rid him of this behavior. And he will need to be neutered before leaving the shelter at the new owners expense. He was not a family pet, and wasn't socialized well.

He is a big sweetheart around women, but can be nervous around men. This is common among dogs that have lost trust in males. To introduce Jack to men, have the men facing away from him, not looking or talking to him. They can hold treats, like chicken or hotdog (things that smell really good!), and toss the treats in Jack's direction. That way he learns that men are good. Slowly repeating this behavior can allow you to regain his trust. He hasn't been around children, so it is recommended that his new home not be with kids under five because we do not know and can't be sure how he's going to react to them. He seems to be fine with kids over the age of ten. Jack hasn't lived in a house, so it is unknown if he is housetrained.

Jack's breed is a working type breed and will need a home that will give him the mental stimulation and daily exercise he needs to stay healthy. The Appenzellers were bred to pull carts, and it is apparent in their body style. Although Jack isn't a very tall dog, he is very stocky and strong. Since he is not neutered (and will need to be before leaving the shelter!!), he is very hormone driven. He does seem to respond well to kissy noises and whistles, so training would be easy. He learned how to walk nicely on a leash at your side in about ten minutes!

Jack is not neutered and will need to be neutered before leaving the shelter at the new owners expense!
Update-Jack is coming along very well in his socialization and training. He is becoming much more confident with people of all ages and sizes :) Jack is a big puppy at heart and soaks up the love and affection. He is a super fast learner here at the shelter and will make a great companion! He lived as a free-roaming dog on a farm from 6-weeks of age until he was surrendered to the shelter. Considering he was not socialized to be a household companion, he is doing amazingly well given the stresses of the shelter. He is a staff favorite and we are hoping he will be in a new home soon!