About Benji

Originally adopted two years ago after a history of being a stray dog. At the time, the rescue had just treated for heartworms and is now heartworm negative. Benji is good on a leash and loves his walks. He loves toys with squeakers and playing tug-of-war. Benji's preferred way of playing with other dogs is play wrestling, but his play signals often get misinterpreted as possible aggression; this isn't helped that he can be suspicious and aggressive towards larger male dogs. However, he has found select male and many female play partners that do well in a one-to-one setting. Inside the home, Benji has an iron bladder and excellent accident control. He will voluntarily hold it for hours for the opportunity to mark something on a walk. Benji has been crate trained but prefers being able to sleep on the floor, furniture, or bathtubs. He has never damaged any personal possessions or furniture; at most, he likes to 'relocate' some items to a gathering spot outside but they don't get eaten or damaged. The reason that we are seeking to rehome Benji is his attitude towards human food. Originally he did have issues with resource guarding all types of food and water from both people and dogs, but we have worked through most of the issues. However, with his time as a stray, he does tend to scavenge for leftover food and can counter-surf. While interrupting his counter-surfing, he bit my hand and broke the skin. It was a one-time bite and in the weeks afterward his demeanor towards the family stayed happy and healthy, but I can't risk having a dog that could bite potentially bite our newborn baby, although he has shown no signs of aggression towards her. Benji would be a wonderful pet for a family with older children that could help play and show affection towards him. He would also thrive with a fenced-in backyard and opportunities for 1-2 walks a day. Benji loves the great outdoors and all opportunities to walk, run, hike, or play!

Franklin County
Westerville, Ohio 43081