About Caden

Cheerful Scamp Caden! Playful Caden is an approximately 3-year-old, 45-pound bob-tailed blue merle Plushie-faced Australian Shepherd mix. Caden's Foster Family describes him as 'a bouncy bright Best Buddy!' He's your bubbly best friend-life of the party, up for anything, and loyal to the end. Caden's an affectionate Aussie meant to be the Chosen Chum of someone who understands and appreciates the herding breed. Caden's infectious Aussie grin, bob-tail beat and whole body wiggle-waggle communicate his happy-go-lucky soul. He faithfully follows his Folks from room to room. Busybody boy wants to be in 2 places at once, checking on what's cooking in the kitchen while scouting out the front window. The front window is a favorite perch- he considers it his duty to use his basstone bark to alert the presence of passerby, or to scold a stray varmint. His foster family is working on helping him discern that not all 'invading' creatures merit a mention. This Rascal likes attention. He'll charm with face kisses or an entreating paw. If all else fails, his snout decisively flips any distraction aside, be it book or device. Caden Capers! A jig and a yip are an invitation to a game of tug. His chase skills are currently better than his fetch. Caden is a bit of an athlete and with the right coach has potential for sports, trail hikes, nosework, or overnight camping adventures. The sweet lad relaxes near his Person after a little recreation. Butt scratches, hugs, and extreme petting are Caden's 'love-on-me' faves. The affable Aussie does well with his house manners and crate. Impatient tip-taps alert 'enough crate time'. Specific vocals signal it is time to go outside. Caden's learning to express his enthusiasm without jump up greetings. Since car rides are exciting, and so are the views from every window, he does best tethered. Occasionally mischievous and independent, Caden is very responsive to loving, consistent guidance- treats are an appreciated incentive. He generally does well with recall inside the house. The pup is learning: 'Leave it', 'Calm', 'Sit', 'Come', 'Wait', 'Ah-ah', 'Back', 'Kennel', and 'Bye-bye'. Thinking he knows the most interesting route, tries to take the lead on leash. He has a strong pull. He will be a fun walking companion with continued training. Daily interaction and clear boundaries are this boy's sweet spot and comfort. Caden's former kiddie-chaotic, unstructured household had unrealistic expectations which caused him lots of canine confusion: 'What are the rules here?' During an unruly ruckus, he tumbled a toddler carrying food. Trying to get the food, he accidentally grabbed the small hand holding it. Caden's Foster home is calm; overstimulation is avoided around food. He is less possessive of yummies and toys. All Foster residence dogs have their own space to eat. Bones with peanut butter are a welcome treat. Carrots, apples, bananas, and other healthy tidbits are appreciated too. Caden enjoys fellow canines, but hasn't yet perfected reading dog signals. He can get too rough and tumble. This limelight-seeker wouldn't mind being the only dog star. Caden is great with cats- any curiosity is redirected with a mere 'Leave it' reminder. Outdoors, any squirrels, birds, and other critters lure his interest. Caden's an amazing party mix of sweet nature, independent spirit, nimble gymnast, comical antics, and intermittent social missteps. He is meant to be a Best Buddy: A companion for Someone who works from home and takes breaks for regular runs or long walks. Or, an active person who wants to train and invest time into a lifelong adventure pal. While not exactly a cuddler, Caden is content to be close to his Person in his favorite spot at the end of a full day. This fella is a 'me and my dog' life dream. Who are Caden's Chums? They are confident and herding breed experienced. Given his past history and enthusiastic nature, he is seeking an adults-only or dog-savvy kids 13 and up in a calm home. Caden craves connection with Someone who will enjoy engaging him mentally and physically and continue socialization training with realistic expectations. Caden does well with cats. Though Caden wouldn't mind being the one and only, he may do well with a laidback dog sibling about his size. Dog parks are not his thing. Introductions with all new people, places, and pets MUST always be slow and monitored. He'd prefer a fenced-in yard. Caden capers by, flashing a grin: 'Dear Forever Friend, I'm a cool dog and am just missing the cool Buddy I can be my best self with. I have a lot to tell you, and we have a lot to get to. Whaddaya say?' Are you this Cheerful Scamp's Forever? If so, the first step is to fill out an application at the link below to be considered as a possible adopter. (Only COMPLETELY answered applications will be considered.) https://www.emailmeform.com/builder/form/dDNce9yr0ChU0F -Located in Northern IL. Adoption Fee: $325

Winnebago County
Illinois