MATTHEW - APP IN PROCESS

Male | 4.5 months old | 25 pounds & growing | Medium energy | Minimal interactions with kids | Lives with dogs | Hasn’t met cats | From Mexico | Fostered in Waterloo | Happy-go-lucky & the absolute sweetest

Meet MATTHEW! He’s a happy young pup with confidence that’s swiftly increasing with each new day. At four months old, MATTHEW has that playful puppy energy that makes outdoor time and training particularly fun. His day involves a little bit of everything, including short training sessions, longer structured walks with his foster family’s two dogs, crate time for naps and even more time to play and explore outside. What can we say? He’s a busy guy! 

This busy young guy responds well to gentle guidance with lots of repetition. We also believe that MATTHEW would do well in a home as a second dog, with another scruff that he could look up to and learn from. Of course, it’s important he be set up for success. Having met his foster family’s two dogs on a neutral outdoor walk, that might be something to consider when introducing him to potential scruff friends. We’re happy to share that MATTHEW quickly settled into step with these dogs and soon began showing off his playful, silly side. Note that this scruff is also likely to succeed as a solo dog as well, if you don’t already have a resident dog!

MATTHEW has shown some curiosity towards kids, though he’s still working on building confidence, and will be more comfortable with older dog-savvy kids for the time being. Don’t get us wrong, though, he can still be super affectionate, snuggly, and full of love for his handlers. Interested in bringing this happy-go-lucky sweetheart into your home?! We love to hear it! As a pup, MATTHEW will require all basic training and a dedicated human(s) who is not only willing but excited to work alongside him as he learns all the ins and outs of being a dog. Apply today!

Please note: MATTHEW is looking to land in his new home by June 28th, so please only apply if you are able to bring him home by then!

TAMAR

Female | 5 months old | 22 pounds & growing | Medium energy | Dog friendly | Hasn’t met kids or cats | From Mexico | Fostered in Toronto | Smart, curious & cute

A curious star girl with a talent for stealing hearts, meet TAMAR 🌟 One look into those sweet green eyes and you’ll fall in love forever!

At only 5 months old, this smart cookie is taking in her new puppy life in stride. Speaking of cookies though, she’s less food-motivated besides the odd extra-delicious smell, and instead seems simply motivated by her ‘joie de vivre’. Super snuggly after a day of adventures, you’ll catch TAMAR in her fave spot, dozing peacefully by your side.

TAMAR is happiest surrounded by the people she loves. She’s playful and excited by the prospect of dog companions, and even open and affectionate with strangers (she loves a good ankle lick!). While she’s had limited interactions with kids and hasn’t met cats, with the right boundaries gentle TAMAR would likely love lots more company at home.

Fostered in the big city, TAMAR’s no longer fazed by the hustle and bustle, but she is still adjusting to having bathroom breaks outside. At home she’ll reliably use her pee pads every time, but she’ll need help continue building her confidence in her new routine and getting through her puppy teething phase (she can’t resist a toilet paper roll!). But this star is a quick learner, picking up ‘sit’ in just one quick session and she’s already fully crate-trained.

Want to give TAMAR the loving home she deserves to grow up in? 💖 Apply to adopt! 

SKIPPER

Male | Born May 2 | 6+ pounds & growing! | Puppy energy | Lives with a dog | Hasn’t met kids or cats | From Manitoba | Fostered in Winnipeg | Arrival date in Toronto TBD | Looking for an adopter

SKIPPER is our latest adoptable scruffy pup, and he is looking for a new home. We’d like to say that he’s coming in hot to Toronto, but his arrival date is actually still to be determined! By the end of June, this pup will be eight weeks old, meaning he will be ready to fly literally and figuratively into your arms at the end of June/early July. Let’s find him a really, really great home, shall we?!

Let’s talk size first. SKIPPER is likely to grow into a medium-sized dog (think 50-80 pounds). For a little extra info, his mum is a beautiful blonde husky mix! This five-week-old scruff is just as gorgeous as her. We’ve also heard that SKIPPER is energetic - jumping and playing at any given time. Obviously, he’s a keeper!

SKIPPER has experience living with a resident dog while in foster care, and will need all basic training - everything from house to leash to crate training. Up to the task? Please know that if you apply to adopt this scruff, you’ll need to be able to pick him up from the airport in Toronto. Again, that date is TBD!

Ready?!?! Apply to adopt.

*SKIPPER’s mom can be seen in photo #4 for reference!*

TRINEO

Male | 10 months old | 52 pounds | Medium energy | Has met older kids and some dogs | Hasn’t met cats | From Mexico | Fostered in Mississauga | Friendly, sweet & building up confidence

This right here is TRINEO! Cautious yet curious, TRINEO has been slowly settling in and learning what life looks like now that he’s made the big move from Mexico to Canada. Obviously, he’s been busy finding his footing in a new environment with his foster fam right by his side, whom he’s learning to become comfortable with around the home!

TRINEO’s typical day involves a few walks, which typically range from 15-20 minutes each. Being the quick learner that he is, he’s easily picked up walking on a leash (and house training for that matter!). Not only that, but having started to build up his confidence, he’s been enjoying going on longer walking routes to see more of his new neighbourhood.

While out and about, this scruff is cautious yet curious when meeting new dogs and will sniff them hello before moving on shortly after. As with anything, patience will be key as he continues to work through his initial nervousness in new scenarios. A consistent routine where TRINEO can easily learn what to expect will help.

Some of the things that TRINEO likes most include curling up with a good chew toy and lounging on his bed. Once he gets comfortable with people, he also likes receiving affection. 

Apply to adopt!

MUÑECO

Male | 10 months old | 52 pounds & growing | Medium energy | Living with dogs | Hasn’t met kids or cats | From Mexico | Fostered in Toronto | Shy, sweet & calm

His name translates to “doll” and it’s easy to see the resemblance. Meet MUÑECO!

This shy guy is slowly coming out of his shell, but the big city was initially quite scary for him. The noises and cars would spook him, and his instinct was to flee, so making sure his tracker is charged and he’s securely double leashed will be key. Safety first! Always.

MUÑECO is showing off how brave he is though, as he becomes more comfy around the hustle and bustle. He’s the type of happy camper who just loves his walks or a good hike, and would likely adore accompanying his furever family on a fun outdoor adventure one day. He’s also a big fan of his crate and settles on his own like a breeze.

He’s currently living with a few respectful scruffs that he’s (awkwardly 🤪) tried to initiate play with (our hearts 💖). While MUÑECO does sometimes stare at dogs he sees on walks, we imagine with the right boundaries he’d do great as a second dog. But honestly, soaking up all the love and attention as a solo-scruff would do just fine for this boy, too. With his loyal heart and strong bond to his humans, MUÑECO is destined to be someone’s soul dog.

Ready to see MUÑECO’s confidence continue to blossom? Apply to adopt!

P.S. Does his sweet face happen to look familiar? Believe it or not, MUÑECO is siblings with Copo, Botitas & Escarcha!

CHAMOY

Male | 1.5 years | 48 pounds | Low energy | Lives with a dog | Respectful kids | Hasn’t met cats | From Mexico | Fostered in Pickering | Sweet & building confidence | Lover of naps

Meet CHAMOY. CHAMOY is the kind of dog who doesn't demand the spotlight, but somehow ends up stealing your heart anyway. Quiet, gentle, and wonderfully easygoing, CHAMOY has a calm presence that makes him a joy to be around. He's happy to follow your lead, whether that's an afternoon walk, working, or a cozy evening on the couch. Wherever life takes you, CHAMOY is simply happy to be by your side.

While he may come across as a little reserved at first, his affectionate side shines through in the sweetest ways. His signature move is gently nudging your hand with his nose to request a head rub! He believes that every treat is a good treat and has yet to meet one he didn't enthusiastically approve of.

CHAMOY has a few charming quirks, too. He's currently working on a complicated relationship with the dog he sees in the mirror. Progress is being made, but negotiations are ongoing. When he does find his voice, it's less of a bark and more of a soulful, hound-like howl that perfectly matches his floppy ears and laid-back personality. One of CHAMOY’s most endearing traits is his sighs. Big, heartfelt, "I've finally found the perfect spot to relax" sighs. 

CHAMOY is building his confidence, and loud, unexpected noises can catch him off guard. He looks to his people for reassurance and puts his trust in those who show him kindness and patience. Watching his confidence grow is one of the most rewarding parts of getting to know him, and having a routine is what helps him thrive. He's great in the car, loves the comfort of his crate, and is content simply being near his people. CHAMOY doesn't need to be the center of attention. He's looking for something much simpler: a family to love, a few treats to enjoy, and a soft place to rest his head.

Apply to adopt.

CANDE - APP IN PROCESS

Female | 4 years old | 18 pounds | Medium energy | Enjoys living with a dog | Hasn’t met kids or cats | From Mexico | Fostered in Etobicoke | Sweet, affectionate & friendly

Got yourself a sweet tooth? We have just the thing (err, dog)! She’s sugar, spice, and everything nice, meet CANDE! Just as sweet as her name suggests, this scruff is a loving companion and is looking for her person to be her perfect (or nearly perfect!) match. Her foster family has shared that her sweet disposition is exactly what makes her a pleasure to have around. Need we even sweeten the deal more?! Keep reading!

With a gentle and affectionate nature, CANDE brings a calm energy and loves spending time with her people or relaxing nearby. Being around people brings her joy, and she’s always ready to snuggle up to them. She especially loves a belly rub and has been known to fall asleep in her people’s arms! Clearly, this gal is friendly, eager to be part of the family, and has a way of making everyone she meets smile. 

CANDE is the kind of scruff who greets every day with a wagging tail. You can always find her sniffing all of nature’s smells while out on one of her walks, which is when her independent side comes out. She has fun learning new commands and is treat-motivated. Lately, she’s been working on leash training, respecting boundaries her foster family maintains and has learned to shake her paw! 

CANDE would likely do well having a yard or outdoor space to run and play, though just as important is having her own space inside the home where she can relax. Speaking of the home, she has been living with her big dog sister, who has been teaching her how to play with toys. She’s yet to meet kids or cats.

Treat yourself! Apply to adopt CANDE, today!

KEIRA - APP IN PROCESS

Female | 7 years old | 62 pounds | Mid to high energy | Good second dog | Older, dog-savvy kids | No cats please | From Ontario | Fostered in Toronto | Affectionate, intelligent & a snoozer

Her foster mom affectionately compares her to Princess Leia and with her cinnamon bun colouring and Husky heroine attitude - it makes complete sense. Meet KEIRA! 🦸‍♀️

While this angel is only starting to show off her sing-songy voice, it’s usually when she wants something or senses it’s close to walk time. “Personal Space” is also NOT in her vocabulary… yet, but she is starting to show more independence. KEIRA is now snoozing slightly away from her foster parents, like on the balcony, or brave girl, in the next room! KEIRA will only stop snuggling when she gets too hot, otherwise expect to find her curled up close by your feet, ever hopeful a hand might wander down for some scritches.

KEIRA is still pretty energetic for 7 and going out four times a day. Each outing consists of either walk-and-sniff time, some training like impulse control at doorways, or some time on the long leash to run and play at the park. Though she hasn’t had the chance to full-on play with another scruff yet, she is thrilled to meet every dog on the sidewalk and seemingly attempts to shrink herself for smaller friends.

KEIRA does have a bit of prey drive when it comes to critters like bunnies and squirrels, so we recommend a home without cats. Her foster says she barely pulls towards prey anymore and has made incredible progress on her leash manners. At first KEIRA would only pull on walks, but now this absolute queen can stay in a perfect heel beside you, or slightly ahead when she needs a sniff.

The main thing KEIRA needs help with is learning that being home alone isn’t so scary. Initially found with another dog, we do think she would benefit from a canine companion at home to help. KEIRA would also likely love being around kids as she is not shy at all with strangers, but she can get a little overexcited and jump up to say hi so a home with older kids would also be ideal.

She may cover you in a bit of Husky glitter and lots of cuddly charm, but honestly who could resist? Think you could be this sweet, gentle soul’s next adventure buddy? 💕

Apply to adopt!

MILEY

Female | 1 year old | 80 pounds | Medium energy | Has met kids | Friendly with dogs & cats | From Ontario | Fostered in Sharon | Affectionate, smart & goofy

Meet MILEY. At one year old, MILEY is a young and playful scruff looking for a forever home that’s just as loving as they are coachable! MILEY is likely to grow into a large guardian breed dog and, as such, needs a confident human looking to grow and learn alongside her with continued training.

Some of MILEY’s favourite things include playing outside, going for long walks (and hikes if you’re up for it!), and exploring nature to her heart’s content. She’s got a mild interest in small animals, but only ever gives them a half-hearted chase. After a day of play and outdoor time, you’ll find that MILEY does well with decompressing in her crate and is just as content practicing the place command. She’s well-trained, this scruff, and it’s that kind of structured day where she has time to practice skills that will have her progressing even more in a new home.

Before coming into SOS care, MILEY was living in a shelter environment, with few opportunities to work on her socialization skills and interactions with people. This led to bite incidents where this scruff acted defensively. Routine, patience, and structure, combined with gentle socialization and handling, will set her up for continued success going forward (just like it already has done!).

While MILEY doesn’t necessarily want strangers going up and petting her, she’s become more trusting and is affectionate and loving with those she trusts. Her interactions with people have progressed, and she’s recently started befriending kids during monitored interactions! While this scruff has yet to experience city living, we expect that with a little time and patience, she’d do just fine.

If you’re someone who’s looking forward to continuing this scruff’s training, then you might be the one for her! Apply to adopt!

DOUG - APP IN PROCESS

Male | 10 years old | 22 pounds | Low energy | Coexists with a dog | Gentle with young kids | Hasn’t met cats | From Ontario | Fostered in Peterborough | Quirky & cute | Easy going | A professional napper

It’s DOUG the pug’s time to shine in the adoption spotlight, and we are SO here for it! Described as “a very good houseguest,” DOUG loves his human interaction, enrichment activities, and getting excited for treats. He’s cute and quirky (it’s the expressive eyes and underbite combo for us) and especially appreciates when his people invite him in for a cuddle or two.

A day with DOUG often involves a healthy amount of napping, which includes structured crate naps, since he experiences some separation anxiety. He loves nothing more than being comfy and, yes, is a professional napper. While he likes to keep an eye on what his people are up to, you’ll find that he’s quite an easy-going guy. His foster parent works shifts, which means every day is a little different, and DOUG over here is pleased as punch to be going with the flow. The one thing that doesn’t please him as much is working through a little ear infection. Obviously, he isn’t the hugest fan of ear drops, but his foster fam has persisted, and it’s definitely gotten easier!

What else? DOUG the pug lives with an older resident dog, and, honestly? He’s indifferent to him, and they simply coexist. On the other hand, DOUG is a happy little scruff when meeting other dogs on walks! DOUG is all tail wags meeting adults, and he shows off his gentle side meeting kids, doing best with those who respect his boundaries.

Lately, DOUG has found his voice in foster care and sometimes barks at the window. Generally speaking, though, he’s a quiet dog and would likely do well in an equally chill home. A couple of short strolls a day (during which he walks well on leash!) plus some enrichment in the evening, suits him well. He’s not very playful, but he will always accept a belly rub. You know, if you were curious.

Apply to adopt!

NANDO - PENDING ADOPTION

Male | 10 years old | 22 pounds | Low energy | Has previously met dogs | Good solo dog | Has met older kids | Hasn’t met cats | From Mexico | Curious & sweet

He’s legendary. He’s got heart. He’s NANDO. Bringing the heat, or, rather, the affection when you need it most, NANDO is as loyal as they come. Some even consider him a Velcro dog :) You’ll soon find that all this scruff wants is to be with his people, which, in our books, is the best kind of soul-soothing comfort out there. Feel free to give him ALL the tummy rubs. 

NANDO is big on Netflix and napping, but, while he may be a senior, he’s got a sweet puppy-like energy to him with some goofball tendencies. Some of his fav pastimes include using his nose to sniff all the smells and playing hide and seek during a midday burst of energy. Then, of course, it’s back to his nap schedule.

Being a little shy in new situations, it’s your confident, calm guidance that will have him catching on quickly to what he needs to learn in your care! While he warms up to people fairly quickly giving kisses right off the bat, it can take him more time to get comfortable with males. With you advocating for him, he’ll quickly learn to trust you’re setting him up for success. He’s likely to do well in a calm, quiet home where his people are home more often than not.

Just like the first bite of that perfectly grilled peri-peri chicken, this scruff will add a burst of joy to your everyday life. Apply to adopt NANDO today. It’s a wing-wing situation after all!

Copy of BELLA

BELLA

Female | 6.5 years | 60lbs Hound mix | Low energy

About me

Needs proper intros | Good second dog | Good exposure to dogs and children | Not cat tested | Currently training with a prong collar

A Day in the Life

I love going for walks with my hooman, we go for 3 walks a day for 1 hour each. While my hooman is at work, I relax and nap in my crate. I love it!

Fun Facts

I am from mexico, I love hanging out with kids, and cats kinda make me a little too excited.

Skills & Qualities

Cuddling

Leash Walking

Crate Training

Copy of BELLA 2

BELLA

Female | 6.5 years | 60lbs Hound mix | Low energy

About me

Needs proper intros | Good second dog | Good exposure to dogs and children | Not cat tested | Currently training with a prong collar

A Day in the Life

I love going for walks with my hooman, we go for 3 walks a day for 1 hour each. While my hooman is at work, I relax and nap in my crate. I love it!

Fun Facts

I am from mexico, I love hanging out with kids, and cats kinda make me a little too excited.

Skills & Qualities

Cuddling

Leash Walking

Crate Training