Whether it’s their favorite toy, a bowl of food or a soft spot on the couch, dogs can become possessive of things and their people – they consider them valuable. Although some might find seeing their pup guard a favorite toy and think it’s adorable, the cuteness quickly fades away when your dog starts growling or biting to protect their possessions from others.
Take a look at this handsome hunk, Floki! Floki arrived at the Town of Babylon Animal Shelter in May of 2021 after having been found stray. No one ever came looking for him leaving him heartbroken behind shelter walls. He sits in his kennel wondering what he did wrong, and why he spends most of his days and nights behind bars.
This spunky, sweet, loving and energetic 3-4 year old boy has been waiting far too long for a home and family to call his own; a family who will love him and never let him go.
Floki loves to play, roll in the grass, learn new tricks and just be with his people. He is a super cuddly and affectionate boy who enjoys giving kisses. A fun boy who walks nicely on a leash, loves people and attention – such a fabulous family dog. How is it that he has been waiting over a year?
Is it possible it’s because he doesn’t like to share his stuff? Or that he needs to be an only dog? Probably. But honestly, these are issues that can be managed, and issues that can be helped if someone is willing and committed to put in the work needed when you adopt ANY dog. Someone who will give Floki time and patience to become the best boy he can be.
Floki is already off to a great start working daily with his shelter mom – she is even working on socializing him with other dogs. He’s actually met a few friendly females and done great on leash. And even though he currently needs to be your one and only pet, he has no issues walking by others.
As for guarding his food and toys, not knowing anything about Floki’s life prior to shelter life, it is difficult to know if this was always something he did or if this is something that has developed in the shelter environment. This behavior could be a result of a past trauma or he feels more inclined to protect the valuables in the shelter.
We have discussed this type of behavior many times; resource guarding. Even though this is considered normal canine behavior for any dog to act like this, it most certainly does not mean you should encourage or ignore the problem. No matter the reason for their resource guarding, when you recognize this as just another part of their nature, it will be easier to approach the problem and start working towards a resolution.
With all this in mind, the best home for Floki is with a very special family — savvy, experienced, individuals who are committed to him and who understand dogs and their behaviors. Individuals who will put in the time needed to work on building his confidence, continue working on his socialization and his guarding issues.
Floki has a great personality and hasn’t met anyone he doesn’t get along with. He is searching for the loves of his life, a family who will cherish him the way he should be. An active family who will enjoy spending outdoor time with him playing fetch, taking walks, then coming home and relaxing on the couch together. The shelter is recommending households with children ages 12 and up.
Remember when you adopt a dog, you made the decision to care for this dog and make them a member of your family. We cannot stress how important PATIENCE is during the initial stages with a rescued shelter dog. The beauty in all of this is watching his or her personality emerge as they learn to trust, gain confidence and feel safe.
Floki is yet another heartbroken, beautiful soul who is looking for someone to share his world with. Open your heart and give Floki the chance he truly deserves!
Babylon Animal Shelter
80 New Highway
Amityville, New York 11701
(631) 643-9270
Be sure to head over to Adoption Central right here on Paws Give Me Purpose, share Floki and all the other Featured Dog Friday pups still in search of their forever homes.
I love the music. It’s just perfect and tells the entire story of a lost or stray dog. Beautiful. A wonderful idea featuring dog Fridays. I love them all but I already have five that are dearly loved. He’s a gorgeous boy I’m sure someone perfect will adopt him.