Rusty

Available

3-7 years|Bloodhound, German Shepherd Dog|Male|Medium|Tucson, AZ

🐾 Friendly🎾 Playful🤗 Affectionate🏠 Single Animal Home🙈 Shy

Verified

Rusty

Available

3-7 years|Bloodhound, German Shepherd Dog|Male|Medium|Tucson, AZ

🐾 Friendly🎾 Playful🤗 Affectionate🏠 Single Animal Home🙈 Shy

Rusty is a Bloodhound/German Shepherd mix living in Tucson, AZ. This adult, neutered male weighs about 55.0 lbs and is considered medium-sized. He needs a secure environment due to his history as an escape artist, and he is currently taking medication for anxiety. Rusty has a spirited personality and benefits from calm, patient handling.

About Rusty

Rusty is a 3-year-old Bloodhound/German Shepherd mix in Tucson, AZ who’s had a tough time finding stability. He came in as a stray, was adopted, but returned after struggling with anxiety and some puppy-like habits. Rusty is a big-hearted, energetic dog who loves life but startles easily—loud noises send him scurrying, and he’s mastered the art of escape. He’ll need a high, secure fence and never be left unattended outside. A slip lead as backup (even with a proper harness) is essential since he can wiggle free when scared. Rusty should be the only pet at home. He’s dog-selective and very leash-reactive, and while dog intros are required, a single-animal household is best to keep him comfortable. He needs calm, patient humans ready to manage his high-strung side with consistency. He’s on Prozac for anxiety, so his medication needs to be managed carefully with a vet. No dog parks. Playful and affectionate at his core, Rusty thrives in a tranquil, secure environment with adults who get energetic, sensitive dogs. He’s available for adoption or short-term fostering through Pima Animal Care Center. What are you waiting for? Apply today!

Adoption Fee

Inquire directly with rescue.

Adoption fees can usually be paid via credit card, or other convenient methods. Please check with the shelter for specific payment methods.

Rescues & Shelters

Pima Animal Care Center (520) 724-5900

Location Address: 4000 N Silverbell Rd Tucson, AZ 85745 Get directions

Questions about Rusty

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Rusty, as a Bloodhound/German Shepherd mix, does best in a secure home with a high, sturdy fence and a calm, structured routine. His anxiety issues make a quiet household without much commotion ideal.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Rusty benefits from a yard to explore, but it must be secure and closely monitored due to his tendency to escape when startled. He doesn't need constant outdoor access but does best with room to stretch his legs safely.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Bloodhound/German Shepherd mixes like Rusty can be great with kids if they are respectful and calm, but due to his anxiety and jumpy behavior, a home with older children or adults is safest for Rusty.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
Rusty’s breed mix, plus his special needs and strong-willed side, make him better suited to experienced dog owners who are confident managing escape risks and anxiety.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Rusty is dog selective—he can get along with certain dogs after careful introductions, but generally, he thrives as the only dog in the house.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
There’s no specific evidence for Rusty with cats, but given shepherd and hound backgrounds, caution is advised around small animals. He’s best in a pet-free home.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Rusty's breed has a prey drive and high curiosity, so small animals may not be a safe match. Keeping him as the sole pet is safest.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Bloodhound/German Shepherd mixes can be wary or guarded with strangers, and Rusty's sensitivity to new people and noises suggests he may be shy until comfortable.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Rusty is anxious and a flight risk, so he should not be left alone for long periods; supervision and secure confinement indoors are important.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Rusty needs calm, positive training with patience and consistency—he's still learning manners and responds well to structured routines.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Rusty is a medium-sized dog, and most Bloodhound/German Shepherd mixes are in the medium to large range; he weighs about 55.0 lbs.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Bloodhound/German Shepherd mixes like Rusty usually live between 9 and 12 years, depending on overall health and lifestyle.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Rusty’s breeds tend to shed year-round and benefit from regular brushing to keep loose hair and dander in check.