I had the pleasure of hanging out with Fonzie last week. He greeted me at the door with a huge bully smile and happy tail wag, then escorted me to his couch where he sat down and shared some love in exchange for a rub. Fonzie is a very friendly, social dog who warms up quickly to new people and rolls with the punches. He’s amusing just to watch, and reminds you of a football team’s mascot or a dog who’d be in commercials. He is full of personality and definitely star material.
Fonzie is a handsome English Bulldog who is about five years old and weighs 70 pounds. He has unique coloring with striking brindle patches on his coat, and a smile that lights up and opens as wide as his head when he sees you. He was more energetic and playful than I expected, and he entertained himself during my visit by tossing his favorite chew toy in the air and chasing his ball around the living room.
Fonzie was saved from a shelter in Maryland, where his former owners surrendered him because they didn’t have enough time to walk or care for him... so much for a lifetime commitment. He doesn’t show any visible signs of neglect, and it’s apparent that someone spent some time training him. He’s crate-trained, potty-trained, and will let you know when he needs to go out by offering a low bark or standing by the door. He walks great on a leash and LOVES car rides, and knows how to “sit” and “shake.” On a whim, his foster mom jokingly asked him to roll over as he was eyeing the steaks she was cooking on the grill and, to her surprise, he rolled right over without a second thought. Fonzie is very treat-motivated and, combined with his smarts, will be easy to continue to train.
When Fonzie met his new foster parents, Travis and Laura, it was an instant fit. They opened the door of their truck to meet him and he jumped right into the front seat, raring to go. He casually introduced himself to their two dogs without any issue, and felt settled into their home from the moment he got there. Travis describes Fonzie as a friendly, happy dog who loves people and just wants to be loved and played with. He loves to kick and chase the ball in their back yard, and will run around until he tires himself out. He also loves squeaky toys, a good bone, rolling in the grass, and appreciates lounging on the couch, but still has the manners to ask for permission to be invited.
Travis and Fonzie have already hit the town and checked out their local Starbucks together, and Mr. Cool did well, with the occasional bark mixed in. He’s a really easy dog to take out and about, and he loves people in general. He’s great with other dogs and kids too, but because of his hearty size, we think it’s best he be in a home with children seven years or older.
Many people are intrigued by the Bulldog's charms, only later to discover that they require special care for their wrinkles, very short snout, and, in some cases, genetic challenges from irresponsible breeding. They can also overheat from rigorous exercise, and should only be walked for short distances at a time. Bulldogs that come through rescue are seldom in "perfect" condition in terms of health, and preference will be given to families who have prior Bulldog experience.
Fonzie is a true love bug and will make an excellent family dog or companion. We will never understand how someone could give up a dog as cool as Fonzie, but their loss could be your gain.
To learn more about Fonzie, go to the Mutts Matter Adoption Page and fill out an application, or you can contact my friend Suzanne at suzanne@muttsmatterrescue.com
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