Ernie has overcome a tough start in life and made an amazing transformation, but he will always be a special needs dog. He requires a carefully managed diet of Rawbble turkey kibble soaked in hot water, along with daily probiotics and monthly Heartgard for heartworm prevention. Ernie thrives in a quiet home with no children, as loud noises or sudden movements can make him nervous. He'll need some time to adjust to new people and prefers not to be in anyone's face or picked up. While he has made great strides with men, he's still a little wary and may need extra patience in this area. Ernie is great with other dogs, provided they aren't overly dominant, but he's not a fan of small animals or cats. He's shown some curiosity about the chickens in his current home, so a pet-free environment would be ideal for him. Due to past injuries in regular kennels, Ernie needs a sturdy Ruffland-style kennel for safety, though he can be left crated for up to 8 hours if necessary. He's not fond of being crated, so a home where someone is around most of the time would be best. Ernie is looking for a patient and understanding adopter who can provide consistent training and a calm environment to help him continue to thrive. With time and care, Ernie will become a loyal, loving companion.