Girlfriend

Available

3-7 years|Lhasa Apso, Bichon Frise|Female|Small|Wheaton, IL

🐾 Friendly🐕 Dog Friendly🚽 House Trained🐈 Cat Friendly🙈 Shy

Girlfriend

Available

3-7 years|Lhasa Apso, Bichon Frise|Female|Small|Wheaton, IL

🐾 Friendly🐕 Dog Friendly🚽 House Trained🐈 Cat Friendly🙈 Shy

This sweet Lhasa Apso/Bichon Frise mix is an adult female with a small stature. She is spayed, house trained, micro-chipped, and currently living with A.R.F.-IL. Her journey from a puppy mill survivor to a loving companion highlights her resilience. Girlfriend does well in homes with other dogs and is also friendly with cats, and she's up to date on all vaccinations.

About Girlfriend

Ready to meet your new best friend? Apply now! Lucy, affectionately known as Girlfriend, is a 7-year-old female Lhasa Apso and a puppy mill survivor whose story is nothing short of inspiring. Rescued nearly three years ago, she arrived pregnant with what would become her last litter, and her journey since then has been a step-by-step process of healing. The scars of those early years are still with her, but Lucy has shown remarkable growth under the care of her loving foster family. Girlfriend is deeply bonded with her foster mom and the resident dogs in her foster home. She follows them everywhere, finding comfort and security in their presence. She loves cuddling and napping with her canine siblings and has even started to play with them—heartwarming progress for a pup who never had such freedoms before. While she's still cautious around humans and not quite ready for pets or cuddles, Girlfriend is learning to trust at her own gentle pace. She'll approach for a sniff and retreat, and will accept treats from people she knows and trusts. She continues to take small but courageous steps forward, and it's hoped that, with patience, she will continue to bloom. If you are searching for a pup who would thrive with another dog in the household, Girlfriend could be a perfect fit. She is looking for a stable home with another dog for companionship, ideally with someone who appreciates her quiet presence. Her forever home—apartments are welcome—will need patience and understanding, but the rewards of gaining her trust will be truly special. She is micro-chipped, housetrained, uses potty pads, and is up to date on her vaccinations. A forever home in time for the holidays would mean the world to her and those who care for her. Make their next chapter their best one yet.

Questions about Girlfriend

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Lhasa Apso and Bichon Frise mixes generally adapt well to most home environments, including apartments and houses, as long as they are provided with enough social interaction and enrichment.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Being small dogs, they do not require a large yard. Regular walks and access to a safe outdoor space for playtime are usually sufficient for their physical and mental stimulation.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Lhasa Apso/Bichon Frise mixes can do well with gentle, respectful children, but supervision is recommended to ensure positive interactions, especially due to their small size.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
They are suitable for both first-time and experienced dog owners. Their affectionate and intelligent nature makes them a lovely addition, though patience with socialization is important.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Yes, both breeds are generally sociable and enjoy the company of other dogs, especially if properly socialized from a young age.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
These mixes often get along well with cats, particularly if introduced gradually and with positive reinforcement.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
With supervision and gradual introductions, Lhasa Apso/Bichon Frise mixes can coexist with small animals, but their playfulness means care should be taken.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
They can be a bit reserved around strangers at first, but with gentle introductions, they usually warm up and show their friendly side.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
They prefer not to be alone for long periods, as they thrive on companionship. Leaving them alone for several hours is fine, especially if they have another pet as company.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
They are intelligent and respond well to consistent, positive-reinforcement training. Early socialization and basic obedience are recommended.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Lhasa Apso and Bichon Frise mixes are typically small dogs, often weighing between 10 to 18 pounds.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
The average lifespan for both breeds ranges from 12 to 16 years, with good care and regular veterinary attention.
How much does this breed typically shed?
They are low to moderate shedders and are often considered hypoallergenic. Regular grooming helps keep their coats in good condition.