Pops

Available

5 years old|Black Labrador Retriever|Male|Large|Torrington, CT

🐾 Friendly🧠 Smart🏃 High Energy🚽 House Trained👍 Knows basic commands

Pops

Available

5 years old|Black Labrador Retriever|Male|Large|Torrington, CT

🐾 Friendly🧠 Smart🏃 High Energy🚽 House Trained👍 Knows basic commands

Pops is a large, male, mixed-breed dog (border collie, staffy, shepherd, black Labrador Retriever) estimated to be about 4.5 years old and currently located at One More Dog Rescue (Formerly Ruff Start Happy Tails). He is house trained, neutered, and his vaccinations are up to date. Pops benefits from a structured, active environment with someone dedicated to continuing his training and providing lots of mental and physical stimulation.

About Pops

Ready to meet your new best friend? Apply now! Meet Pops, affectionately known as Popsy or Bubs, a strikingly smart and loyal male large mixed-breed (border collie, staffy, shepherd, and black Labrador Retriever). At 4.5 years old, Pops has overcome a tough start but thrived thanks to exceptional training and dedicated foster care. He completed a two-month board and train program, earning high praise from his trainer, and continues to build on his skills in foster. Pops is a true work-and-play companion. He has a medium-to-high energy level, always eager for hiking, running, playing fetch, and engaging games—followed by a deep, restful nap on his back. While he isn't a typical cuddler, he does love a good belly rub and pets. Earning his trust is essential; Pops can be wary with strangers and needs slow introductions, but toys and treats help build his confidence. He is happiest with structure, mental challenges, and physical activities. Pops knows an impressive list of commands—sit, heel, stay, ready, out, enough, paw, place, get it, bring it, leave it, middle, down—and is perfectly housebroken and crate-trained. He socializes well with other dogs but is not suited for homes with cats or children. His ideal home is quiet, with an adopter who understands his need for bonding and activity. Pops is neutered, vaccinated, heartworm negative, and microchipped. For those in Illinois, Connecticut, and neighboring states, Pops is eagerly waiting for his forever family. Make their next chapter their best one yet.

Questions about Pops

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Mixed-breed dogs like Pops, with herding and working dog ancestry, do best in homes where they have regular activity, structure, and space. They thrive with active individuals or families who can provide both mental and physical engagement.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Large mixed-breed dogs with herding and working backgrounds benefit from a home with a yard to run and play or regular access to parks. Daily walks and opportunities for activity are important.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
While many mixed-breed dogs can be wonderful with children, energetic and highly active breeds or mixes may prefer households with adults or older teens, especially if they can be excitable or wary in new situations.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
This type of dog thrives with experienced owners who can provide guidance, structure, and ongoing training. A knowledgeable adopter helps bring out their best traits.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Many mixed-breed dogs with herding or working backgrounds enjoy socializing with other dogs, especially if they were well-socialized early and get regular positive experiences.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
Herding and working breed mixes can have a strong prey drive or herding instinct, so they may not always be suitable for homes with cats unless carefully introduced and managed.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Due to possible prey or herding instincts, this type of dog may need extra supervision and training around small animals. Each dog's personality and background play a big part.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Some mixed-breed dogs with guarding or herding ancestry can be cautious or wary with strangers. Proper introductions and positive reinforcement build trust over time.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Active, intelligent mixed-breed dogs generally do best with company and engagement. Leaving them alone for a standard workday is possible with prior exercise, but they thrive with more attention.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Highly intelligent working and herding breed mixes need consistent training and mental stimulation. They enjoy learning new skills and benefit from both basic obedience and advanced enrichment.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Large mixed-breed dogs like Pops typically weigh between 50 and 80 pounds as adults, depending on the mix of their parent breeds.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Large mixed-breed dogs often live 10 to 14 years, especially with good care and regular veterinary attention.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Depending on their coat type, mixed-breed dogs with herding or retriever ancestry can shed moderately year-round, with heavier seasonal sheds. Regular grooming helps keep their coat healthy.