Duncan, the Handsome Devil

Hey there. My name is Duncan and I’m here to introduce myself. I’m a handsome and affectionate mastiff mix, with a unique, sable-colored coat and grey-blue eyes. Mutts Matter thinks I may even have some German short-haired pointer in me... You probably can’t tell I have webbed feet, but do you see those speckles on my chest?

I’m a goofy young pup, at only 14 months old, but I’m also very strong and a strapping 75 pounds. I still have some puppy playfulness and mischievousness in me, and like to test my boundaries, but isn’t that what youth is all about?

I was rescued from a shelter in Montgomery County after my owners surrendered me because they were moving. I was only 9 months old and left to fend for myself, just like a whole bunch of other pups in there… It’s a far too common story. Luckily, Mutts Matter stepped in and found me a great foster family who loves me and is working with me on my manners, which is especially important for a strong-willed pup like me.

I’m already crate-trained and potty-trained, and we’ve been practicing my leash walking skills every day. I’m actually pretty good on the leash now, and I've learned to sit when my foster mom stops walking. I still really want to sniff things, and will occasionally react if another dog barks at me, because it doesn’t feel like I should just stand there and take it. What can I say? I’m a dog. It’s my nature, and we’re working on it.

I also know other commands like “down,” “come” and “wait.” I will sit and wait for my food and wait before I go out the door, and even let my foster mom take the lead. She says I learn quickly and am so food-motivated that I will do ANYTHING for a treat, and I love them all.

I have tons of personality and am a constant source of entertainment for my foster parents. My foster dad affectionately calls me his little “ninja” because I like to sneak up behind him when he’s not looking, and hide under beds and tables to surprise him. I’m also quite adept at sneaking food when nobody is watching, and I've been known to gnaw on an occasional textbook. I’m going to blame that on being a puppy.

I make my foster mom laugh when I lay on the couch spread-eagle, or use the carpet as my own personal back-scratcher. If you’re looking for dog with pluck and personality who still knows how to chill out, I’m your guy. 

Taking a page from Oprah, here are some of my favorite things: food of any kind, treats of any kind and bones of any kind, real or plastic. I like long belly rubs and curling up next to you. I really love the couch, and that’s where you’ll typically find me when I’m hanging out at home. I also enjoy playing tug and wrestling with my foster dad. He’s a big guy, but I’m an alpha dog and can hold my own with him.

Oh, and did I mention that I love to swim? I stayed at a cool doggie resort for a few days that had a swimming pond and I loved playing in the water. These webbed feet of mine really came in handy. 

I would fit best with a family that has some big-dog experience, who will nurture me and spend some time on obedience training to help me to reach my full potential. A fenced yard would be ideal, and older kids would be awesome too... I’m very much a people dog.

I’m OK with other dogs, but would probably do best with a large, calm and confident dog to help balance my energy level and keep me in check. I’m probably NOT the best fit for a first-time dog owner, and I’m a little big for small kids, as I don’t always realize my size and strength when I get excited.

Like all young pups, I will need daily exercise and stimulation to stay healthy and balanced, and will benefit from a consistent routine. I’m a very smart dog, and I just need someone who can take charge and show me the ropes.

Mostly, I'm looking for a family who will love and commit to me.  I will be the best dog ever, if you give me a chance.

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To learn more about Duncan, go to the Mutts Matter Adoption Page and fill out an application.

Or, you can contact Suzanne at suzanne@muttsmatterrescue.com.

Follow Mutts Matter on Facebook to learn more about us and see new pups coming into the rescue!