Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
House-trained,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Penelope is a stunning Rottweiler mix, approximately 4–5 years old, who came to us as a stray and has been quietly winning hearts ever since. She is affectionate, intelligent, athletic, and deeply people-oriented — the kind of dog who wants to be with you, not just near you.
Penelope loves people. Truly. She seeks connection, enjoys attention, and thrives when she has a job, a handler, and a sense of purpose. This weekend, she joined a canicross run and earned glowing reviews (shared below), impressing experienced runners with her composure, trainability, and heart.
Honest & Educational: Penelope’s Dog-to-Dog Challenges
Penelope can be barrier reactive with other dogs, particularly in stimulating environments or when dogs are vocal toward her. This behavior appears rooted in nervousness rather than intent, and she gives clear, subtle stress signals (lip licking, small whines) before escalating — which is actually excellent information for a skilled handler to work with.
Based on what we have seen:
She can be around other dogs at a managed distance
She improves quickly when guided by a confident handler
She is responsive to redirection and settles once she understands the situation
Because of this, Penelope is looking for an experienced, committed adopter, ideally with Rottweiler or similar breed experience, who understands behavior management and is willing to continue her training journey.
She knows basic commands (sit, stay, gentle), respects the leash despite her strength, and genuinely wants to do well — she just needs a human who knows how to guide her.
The Bottom Line
Penelope is not a “first dog” or an “easy mode” placement — and that’s okay. Dogs like Penelope are often the most rewarding. She is loyal, affectionate, eager to work, and deeply bonded to her people. With the right home, Penelope won’t just do well — she will shine. If you’re ready to invest time, experience, and heart into a truly special companion, Penelope may be the gem you’ve been searching for. Please complete an adoption application for our shiny Penny:
https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions
Penelope has a spay appointment booked for early January. She is searching for a foster-to-adopt home or foster home without other dogs prior to her surgery.
Animal adoptions and viewing are by appointment only. This allows our Adoption Staff to spend quality time with each potential home to ensure the most successful matches are made between the animals and their new families.
*Please note: we only adopt within Ontario
