About Lincoln

Adoption application for Lincoln: https://forms.gle/DtDoMySGMhwUN84L9 Location: Gaithersburg, MD Meet Lincoln: Loyal, Sensitive, and Ready for the Right Person Lincoln is a 6.5-year-old cattle dog mix (with hints of border collie, Pyrenees, and pointer) who I adopted at around 2 years old. He is now looking for a very special home. Lincoln is deeply loyal, intelligent, and happiest when he's out hiking or curled up next to his person. Once he trusts you, he's your shadow - snoozing nearby, nudging for affection, or joining you on daily walks. He absolutely loves car rides, sniffy walks, puzzle feeders, and nearly any trail adventure. He's hiked the White Mountains in New Hampshire and thrives in the snow and cooler weather. At home, he enjoys structured downtime and is currently being introduced to tools like a playpen and head collar to support behavior and enrichment. What Lincoln Needs Lincoln has a complex behavioral history and is best suited for experienced dog people, especially those familiar with fear-based reactivity, resource guarding, or working/herding breeds. He is not a candidate for homes with other pets, children, apartments, or city life. His ideal home would include: - A solo adult or calm couple - Fenced yard and nearby hiking/walking access - No other pets or children - Someone home most of the day (e.g., remote worker) - A commitment to ongoing structure and professional support Lincoln can be reactive to large dogs, unfamiliar people approaching on leash, and to being moved when he doesn't want to be. He is not currently muzzle-trained, but that may be helpful in the future. His behavior is improving with support and routine - he can be safely managed when his boundaries are respected. Behavioral Needs & Support Lincoln's adopter should plan to work with a certified behaviorist. I'm happy to connect you with the one we're currently working with (based in Gaithersburg, MD, also available virtually). I'm also willing to cover up to 5 hours of behavior sessions with her or another qualified professional of your choosing. Lincoln is sensitive to loud noises like thunderstorms, fireworks, and household sounds like dishwashers or ice makers. While his noise sensitivity has improved over time, I proactively give him Trazodone during especially stressful events. His new medication, Amitriptyline, seems to be helping more with reducing anxiety. Medical Notes Lincoln is being evaluated for diabetes insipidus, a condition that affects thirst and urination. While it has led to some indoor accidents, it is being managed and is under continued veterinary review. He also takes a daily antidepressant (Amitriptyline) to help support his anxiety. Why He's Being Rehomed I love Lincoln deeply. But after moving into a new home plus the addition of my partner and her dog, his stress and behavioral challenges increased, and his needs outgrew what we could safely provide. He is currently staying with my parents in Maryland in a quieter setting, where we've already seen a major reduction in his stress levels. This decision is not one I've made lightly. Lincoln has not always been an easy dog, but in the right home, he will be a devoted and loving companion. What's Provided Lincoln will come with: - A detailed behavior plan (available on request) - A direct connection to his current behaviorist + up to 5 additional training hours with her or another certified behaviorist, covered by current owner - Full veterinary records - Familiar items: enrichment tools, food, meds, jackets, leashes - Ongoing support from me to help him transition If you're someone who sees the dog behind the challenges, Lincoln could be your next great companion. Application, phone screening, and meet-and-greet (virtual or in-person) required. Willing to travel up to 8 hours from Gaithersburg, MD for the right home. Apply here: https://forms.gle/DtDoMySGMhwUN84L9

Montgomery County
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878