Dahlia Aka Dottie

Available

6 years old|Shepherd, Labrador Retriever|Female|Large|Tyler, TX

🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate🚽 House Trained🐕 Dog Friendly🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Good with Children

Dahlia Aka Dottie

Available

6 years old|Shepherd, Labrador Retriever|Female|Large|Tyler, TX

🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate🚽 House Trained🐕 Dog Friendly🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Good with Children

Dahlia Aka Dottie is a 6-year-old, large female shepherd/labrador mix in Tyler, TX. She has a short, white and tricolor coat and is fully house trained. She is spayed and her vaccinations are up to date. Dottie’s gentle nature shows through when she’s in a comfortable setting, and she benefited from living with children and dogs in her previous home. As a Cancer, she tends to form strong bonds with those she trusts.

About Dahlia Aka Dottie

Dottie (formerly Dahlia) had a family of her own for several years after her first adoption in 2019. When her family had to downsize in May 2025, she came back to the shelter, and the shift has been rough. At 6 years old and around 59 lbs, this large shepherd/labrador mix is now searching for stability again in Tyler, TX. Dottie is housebroken, crate trained, and handles a leash well, but her confidence has taken a hit since returning. She’s lived with children and dogs before and did well, but the shelter’s stress has made her anxious around new faces. Only a handful of people have earned her trust. She’ll need an adopter who is patient, calm, and prepared to give her real time and space so she can decompress and settle in. Dottie’s potential to be a loyal, affectionate companion is just beneath the surface; she just needs someone willing to give her the chance. Ready to meet your new best friend? Apply now!

Questions about Dahlia Aka Dottie

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Dahlia Aka Dottie, being a shepherd/labrador mix, would thrive best in a home with stability, access to a yard, and caring people. These breeds typically do well in family settings where they can bond with their humans.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
A shepherd/labrador mix like Dottie usually needs a moderate to large amount of outdoor space. Regular walks and time in a fenced yard would help her stay happy and healthy.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Dottie has lived with children before and breeds like hers are generally known to be good with kids, especially when introduced properly and given gentle supervision.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
Shepherd/labrador mixes like Dottie can do well with first-time owners who are prepared to invest time and patience into training, but experience with dogs is always a plus.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Dottie has previously lived with other dogs and this mix tends to be social with dogs when properly introduced.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
While every individual is different, many shepherd and lab mixes can get along with cats if they are introduced gradually and supervised early on.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Because Dottie is a shepherd/labrador mix, care should be taken around small animals, as herding and retrieving instincts can kick in. Supervision is recommended.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Dottie has recently become wary of new people, which is not uncommon for dogs in stressful situations. Normally, shepherd/labrador mixes warm up with time and gentle introductions.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Dottie shouldn’t be left alone for long periods, especially given her recent stress. In general, adult shepherd/labrador mixes do best with a consistent routine and companionship throughout the day.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Dottie already knows basic training, but her breed mix benefits from ongoing structure and positive reinforcement. These dogs are smart and willing to learn with the right guidance.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Shepherd/labrador mixes like Dottie are large dogs, and she herself weighs about 59 lbs.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Dogs like Dottie generally live between 10 and 14 years, depending on health and lifestyle.
How much does this breed typically shed?
She has a short coat but shepherd/labrador mixes tend to shed moderately year-round, with a heavier shed during season changes.