Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
House-trained,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Hi, I’m Happy — and I really live up to my name.
I’m an almost 3-year-young mixed breed, possibly a Black Mouth Cur / German Shepherd mix, weighing about 60 lbs. I’m tall, lean, athletic… and truly the full package. Everyone who meets me says the same thing — I’m an amazing dog, and honestly, it’s a mystery why I haven’t been scooped up yet.
My story started in rural Tennessee, where I was found as an underweight stray puppy. I spent 18 long months at a shelter with no one coming for me. The staff knew I deserved more, so I made my way to Chicago, where Safe Haven is helping me finally find the forever family I’ve been waiting for.
I’m a young guy with great energy and an even better personality. I love long walks, runs, and playtime — I’d make an incredible running partner. At my foster home, I live for zooming around the fenced yard, so a 5-foot fence would be ideal for me.
I’m playful and love my toys — squeaky balls, nylabones, and leather toys are some of my favorites. But I’m not just about action — I’ve got a calm, easygoing side too. I’m quiet and well-mannered in the house, happy to relax in my dog bed while you work or snooze nearby while you watch TV. I like being close to my people, and I’m especially in tune with your emotions — if you’re having a tough day, I’ll be right there to comfort you. Those soulful light brown eyes? They’re always looking out for you.
I’m smart and eager to learn. I already know sit, stay, come, leave it, and down/off, and since I’m food motivated, training with me is fun and rewarding.
I currently live with two other dogs and do just fine, though I’d really love a playmate closer to my size and energy level — or I’d be just as happy being your one and only. I do have a strong prey drive (squirrels and bunnies are very exciting!), so a cat-free home would be best.
Because I’m strong and enthusiastic, I can sometimes forget my size when I’m excited. I’m fully housebroken and prefer a fenced yard for doing my business. I walk nicely on leash, and a harness helps keep me at my best.
After spending so much time in a shelter, I don’t love crates or being confined, and I don’t love being alone for long stretches. I’d thrive in a home where someone is around most of the time — especially if you work from home.
What I don’t understand is why I’m still waiting. I’m the kind of dog people say they’re looking for — loyal, smart, affectionate, active but able to relax, and deeply connected to my humans. I’m not just a good dog… I’m a really special one.
If you have a fenced yard, enjoy getting outside, and want a devoted companion who will bring joy, energy, and unconditional love into your life — I’m ready.
I’ve waited a long time. I just need someone to finally choose me.
Adoption Information
Happy’s standard adoption fee is $465. We offer a $15 discount for cash or check payments, making the fee $450.
The adoption fee covers:
Spay/neuter surgery (when age appropriate) at one of our participating veterinarians
Age-appropriate core vaccinations
Fecal testing and deworming
Flea and tick preventative
Microchipping
To be considered for adoption, we require:
A fully completed application
A phone interview
A meet-and-greet with your entire household
Submitting an application does not commit you to adopting and does not guarantee approval — it simply begins the review process.
If you are interested in adopting or would like additional information, please email adopt@safehavendogsIL.org
to request an application.
Please note that the breed and size listed in each dog’s biography are our best educated guesses and are not guaranteed.
Safe Haven Dog Rescue reserves the right to refuse the adoption of any dog or puppy to any applicant for any reason.
