Chihuahua / Rat Terrier · Waggytail Rescue
Adult · Male · 15 lbs · New York, NY
AVAILABLE FOR FOSTER OR FOSTER TO ADOPT
Charlie is a 5-year-old, 15-pound Rat Terrier/Chihuahua mix from NY who is looking for a foster or foster-to-adopt home where he can settle in, continue building his confidence, and show just how wonderful he truly is.
Charlie is a gentle, affectionate little guy with the sweetest soul. While he can be shy at first, he quickly warms up into an incredibly loving companion who adores cuddles, pets, and being close to his people. He's happiest exploring the neighborhood on walks, sniffing every interesting scent, or curling up next to you for a cozy nap. Charlie has the perfect balance of playful energy and relaxation, making him an easy companion for many different lifestyles.
He's a polite walker with lovely leash manners, though busy city noises can sometimes startle him. Charlie enjoys meeting friendly dogs of all sizes and has historically done very well with other dogs. He would be happy as an only dog or in a home with another calm, respectful dog who could help him feel more confident.
Charlie is fully house-trained and goes outside for all of his potty breaks. He's incredibly food motivated, eager to please, and enjoys learning when treats are involved.
Like many rescue dogs, Charlie experiences anxiety. He currently takes Prozac twice a day, which has made a tremendous difference in his confidence and overall quality of life. He also has gabapentin available as needed for particularly stressful situations, such as fireworks or thunderstorms. Since starting medication, the panic episodes he once experienced have become very rare.
Charlie's has experienced separation anxiety but has made meaningful progress and can comfortably spend over 5 hours home alone, though he will benefit from a foster who can continue helping him build confidence through patience, routine, and consistency. We believe a fresh environment and new relationship may help him continue making positive strides, as he's consistently done well with dog sitters after settling in.
Despite his anxiety, Charlie is an incredibly easy dog to love. Everyone who has cared for him describes him as cuddly, gentle, and low-maintenance once he feels safe. He forms deep bonds with his people and has so much love to give.
Charlie is looking for a foster or foster-to-adopt home that can offer a calm, predictable environment while he continues building confidence. Experience with anxious dogs is a bonus, but the most important qualities are patience, kindness, and understanding.
Underneath the worry is an incredibly sweet little dog who simply wants to feel safe. Give him that chance, and you'll discover a loyal best friend who will reward your love with his whole heart.
Vaccinated for rabies, DA2PP, and bordetella. Neutered and microchipped & heartworm negative. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention due the first of every month.
To apply for Ray, visit our website (www.waggytailrescue.org) for an adoption application. It is important to fill out an application as soon as possible for consideration, and we require a complete application for you to meet an animal. We are currently unable to respond to general email inquiries as an all-volunteer run rescue. If the dog is on our website, they are still available.
Waggytail Rescue CANNOT guarantee the exact age of any adoptable dog, or final size of any of our adoptable puppies. We rely on the information provided to us by veterinarians, shelters, owner surrenders and other circumstances bringing the dog into our rescue.
Adoptions: adopt@waggytailrescue.org
Bold and deeply bonded to one or two people. Chihuahuas are often wary of strangers and can be snappy if they were never taught that hands are safe — early gentle socialization matters.
Low — short walks and indoor play are plenty.
Extremely apartment-friendly and easy to carry on the subway. They get cold fast and need a sweater most of the winter.
Contact Waggytail Rescue about Charlie