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Name: Argo *Deaf*
Age: 3 years
Gender: Male
Breed: Australian Cattledog
Weight: 36 lbs
Dog friendly: No
Cat friendly: No
Kid friendly: Older, considerate, kids with dog experience only
House trained: Yes
Crate trained: Yes
Energy level: High; not suitable for apartments or shared walls
History: Local surrender
Adoption Fee: $130
From the Foster:
I didn’t think I was up to the deaf dog challenge either...until Argo won me over with his charm and I did a little research. Deaf dog training is really simple and there are lots of resources available to help you. One of my favorites is Deaf Dogs Rock . The important thing is for everyone in the house to be consistent with clear signals. Argo has been working with a trainer and knows basic commands and a few tricks. He loves to learn and you could have lots of fun teaching him new moves. His foster mom will share his hand signals and the trainer may be available depending on your location.
Argo has some fear aggression with mostly larger dogs. An experienced handler should be able to help him work on that but at this time dog parks and doggie day care would not be recommended. He seems to like smaller dogs but would need slow introductions and close observation. Argo will try to herd kitties but does not show other cattle dog tendencies like nipping.
Deaf dogs do best with a fenced yard and secure gates since they do not have recall. Argo does not like to be left on a tie out, he likes to be with his people. Argo usually sleeps on the ottoman at the foot of the bed and snuggles up for belly rubs in the morning. Sometimes he chooses to sleep in his crate with the door open. His crate is right next to my shoe racks and he has not shown any interest in them. Good boy Argo (thumbs up in doggie sign)!
Argo would thrive in an active environment that understands his need for exercise and mental engagement. He would do well in a home that offers lots of structure and use of positive training methods. Argo is very sensitive and may have been punished for his compulsive behaviors and lack of understanding his deafness. He is a happy sweet boy who really wants to please. Gain his trust and you will be rewarded with an amazing companion.