Meet Devo ❤️ — located in Wellsford, Rodney (but will also be in Hamilton often if that location suits you better).

Devo is a 5-year-old German Shepherd × Rottweiler who has been my Poppa’s loyal companion, mate and guard dog since he was a puppy.

Unfortunately, my Poppa is now terminally ill and will eventually no longer be able to give Devo the care and quality of life he deserves. We’re therefore looking for the right forever home for this big, energetic boy.

Devo does have some behavioural quirks, so finding the right person and environment is really important. He would suit an experienced dog owner with secure land, plenty of time for exercise, and confidence handling a large, strong dog.

A few important things to know:

– Big boy — approximately 40 kg
– Extremely loyal and protective of his people
– Is an outside dog
– Not suitable to be around children due to his size, strength and lack of awareness of how big he is
– Not suitable around farm animals
– Generally good with other dogs, although he can sometimes be protective of his people (My Mum’s very small dog very much dislikes him and is often trying to start fights – Devo couldn’t care less and doesn’t engage)
– Very high energy and needs plenty of exercise and opportunities to run
– Knows basic commands including sit, stay and lie down, and is very well trained to wait for permission before eating
– His obedience and recall have historically been very good, although his recall has been a little inconsistent lately
– Has recently become a little more vocal and reactive towards people at times
– He also has mild hip dysplasia, which occasionally causes discomfort and may be contributing to these recent behaviour changes. We also wonder if Devo may be picking up on Poppa’s illness too
– May benefit from some further behavioural support and veterinary advice around his energy levels and recent behaviour changes.

It’s important to note that these behaviour changes or his condition haven’t been ignored. My Poppa has always taken Devo’s health seriously and has taken him to the vet when needed. Unfortunately, the timing of Devo’s recent changes and the need for further investigation has coincided with my Poppa being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Our hope is to find Devo a home where someone has the time, resources and experience to give him the care he deserves.

Devo has always formed strong bonds with the people he knows and trusts, and we believe he can absolutely build that relationship with a new owner too.

We know finding the right home may take some time, but we also know the right home is out there somewhere ❤️

If you or someone you know may be the right person for Devo, please get in touch. We’re happy to discuss further and answer any questions you might have or organise a meeting. I will be available on messenger.