Max and Rex were turned into the shelter because their owner was no longer able to give his dogs proper vet care or feeding. Rex is an Elkhound mix (with Corgi, we think). He is a friendly dog who is very active, even though he is almost 11 years old. He too arrived at the shelter underweight with a case of intestinal worms, but no heartworm. He’s gaining weight quickly on good food and treats. He is more of a dominant personality than his buddy Max; in fact, he can be a bit pushy.
Rex is crate-trained and housebroken , although if you put him in his crate he will sometimes make a yelp or two if he thinks you’re just ignoring him, and he can get away with it. He pulls like a train (even though he’s not very big) on leash. I think a no-pull leash or harness would work well for him, and some consistent training on “heel” or close-walking. Rex will take treats very gently, and eats and drinks neatly (and quickly.) He doesn’t really beg at the table, but does stand right there watching very intently. I have been working on having him sit while we eat, and ‘down’ would be even better.
He loves attention, and will shove his head in between your knees, or between your feet if you crouch down, to be petted. He looks very silly with his head on the ground and his tail up in the air! Rex knows “sit”, is learning “down”, and will offer one or both paws for shaking. He seems to learn quickly, so I think he would enjoy learning other tricks (especially if it results in food for him!) He likes riding in the car, but will try to hop over the seats and go out through an open window if he’s not restrained or crated. He will jump into and out of the car as long as it’s not too high.
Rex tried to jump on the couch and chairs his first day, but we didn’t allow that, so he stopped. He does come up if invited. He doesn’t jump on people really, but dances around excitedly on his hind legs and might end up with his paws on you - totally by accident, of course! He doesn’t mind being told “off”, though. He likes to be outside, but if you’re not out there with him, he comes quickly back to the door and wants in. He likes his Kong toy with a little peanut butter, and runs after tennis balls, but isn’t very apt to bring them back - and he doesn’t like to share the toys. He doesn’t mind being brushed or having his nails clipped.
We do not know how he is with children, although I would say he would be best with older children or adults. He does not bite or snap, but when he is sleeping and you try to pet him or wake him up without making some noise first, he comes out of sleep growling a bit. I think this is a factor of his age, but I’m not sure. I think he would not be good with cats or other small animals in the home, as he tries VERY hard to chase the cats and rabbits we see on our walks. He seems fine with other dogs his size or bigger, not sure about smaller ones.
If you are interested in fostering or adopting this dog, please click here to fill out the online application. Don't forget to mention his name!
This dog is not in the Closer to Home Animal Advocates program. We are listing him as a courtesy for the John Nelsen Moosedog Rescue Fund and his adoption will be handled through them. To learn more about dogs like this, please click here to go their website. You may contact them at
rescue@jnmrf.org. .
