ADOPTED

GANDALF

Wow! A pure white Miniature Schnauzer! We have never seen such a beauty before!!!!! Sure enough, our research reveals that White Schnauzers are becoming all the rage.

Gandalf came to us from a bustling, urban animal control facility, where many dogs get overlooked in a nameless stream of forgotten souls. Gandalf was a standout! His shimmery white coat and elegant haircut grabbed everyone's attention. Folks marvelled at his fringed earbobs, which suggested to us the whimsical moniker, Gandalf.

Much debate occured as to whether or not Gandalf is a Westie Mix, but his DNA origins seem obvious to us! Gandalf has the leggy, muscular frame, whiskers and double coat of the Miniature Schnauzer. Gandalf is sportin' the traditional Schnauzer haircut with close cropped back and full, whispy legs. Maintaining this formal look will require professional grooming at least once a month.

Gandalf has the high energy intensity that lovers of this noble breed expect. The key to living happily with a high energy terrier is lots of exercise, along with focussed games and play, to keep the mind active and engaged. Schnauzers are not happy campers when they are bored and frustrated.

Gandalf was surrendered by his owners and did not adjust well to the drastic change in lifestyle. Sometimes strays adjust better to shelter life, with its rigid structure and regular meals, than do dogs who have abrubtly lost their cushy homes and lifelong human companions. Gandalf experienced the shock of his young two year old life, and he became tense and uncomfortable, especially as he resisted his initial veterinary poke and prod.

We always give a shelter dog the benefit of the doubt and forgive any mild behavior snafus that occur during this unsettling process. Part of our vital role as rescue people is to allow our beloved shelter refugees space and time to decompress and show their true colors.

We are so pleased with Gandalf's progress. He warmed to us immediately, and seemed to regain his house manners with great speed. Gandalf is an animated little fella, who enjoys the sights and sounds of the world, and quite enjoys his role as house budinsky. Gandalf is a confident dog who loves to be the center of attention.

Gandalf is suspicious of strangers at first and takes some time smd patience to warm to new people. He would be a good companion for the active single or couple who love the intense Terrier or Schnauzer vibe, and who understand that it is best to respect Gandalf's space and allow him time to get comfortable rather than forcing affection on him.

Gandalf is not a good choice for busy families with young kids, who need to get a "Disney" moment from the adoption meeting. We have not tested him with cats, but feel the Terrier intensity does not mesh all that well with the feline vibe.

Since Gandalf recently came from a home, he has good house manners. He is housetrained and crate trained, though the sheltershock process may produce a few unexpected accidents as he adjusts to a new routine. Gandalf is past the puppy destructive phase, and will be perfectly happy with his own toys and chews. Gandalf is an enthusiastic car passenger, who may try to drive the vehicle, if not restrained safely in a seat harness.

Gandalf is in excellent health, and he is a solidly built boy weighing 20 pounds. He has been neutered and is vaccinated for rabies, parvo, distemper and bordatella. He is microchipped and de-wormed, and has tested negative for heartworm, lyme, earlichia and anaplasmosis. If you are interested in Gandalf, please write to Denise@eskiesonline.com or call Denise at 720-903-0636 for more info.