Zena

Available

1 year old|Shepherd, Mixed Breed|Female|Medium|Shawnee, KS

🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate🎾 Playful🚽 House Trained🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Good with Children

Zena

Available

1 year old|Shepherd, Mixed Breed|Female|Medium|Shawnee, KS

🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate🎾 Playful🚽 House Trained🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Good with Children

Zena is a shepherd/mixed breed female, about 1 year and 3 months old, with a medium build and a lovely brown/chocolate coat. She’s spayed and vaccinated, and currently lives in Shawnee, KS. Zena is house trained and eager for a place to call her own.

About Zena

Meet Zena, a 1-year-old, medium-sized shepherd mix who still believes in people even after being abandoned at a school playground. She came in scared and confused, but her loving, trusting nature has not faded. Zena weighs about 45 pounds and strikes a great balance: big enough for outings but just the right size for cuddling up beside you at night. People—including kids—are Zena’s favorite, and she wants to be at the center of whatever is happening. Affectionate and playful, she soaks up attention and thrives on being included. Zena is already potty trained, kennel trained, and walks nicely on leash; she’s enthusiastic for new smells and adventure, and just needs a little patience if she gets excited by squirrels. Because she has a strong prey drive, she’ll do best in a home without cats. Zena prefers male dogs and benefits from slow introductions with other canines. She needs time to warm up to resident dogs, and a gradual, thoughtful process will help her build trust. Right now, she’s still learning to feel comfortable having her paws handled. Gentle, positive experiences will help her get there in time. Zena is eligible for Foster-to-Adopt, so you can see if it’s the right match before finalizing. She’s waiting for a family to give her the safe, loving home every dog deserves. Zena is in Shawnee, KS. Ready to fall in love? Hit apply and lets get started.

Questions about Zena

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Shepherd/mixed breed dogs like Zena thrive in homes where they get regular companionship and attention. They appreciate both active families and homes with plenty of stimulation.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Zena, being a medium-sized shepherd/mix, would benefit from a yard or regular outdoor walks to burn off energy and stay engaged. Even without a large yard, daily outings suffice.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Shepherd mixes are generally great with kids, and Zena herself has shown she gets along with children. She enjoys family life and wants to be part of activities.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
While Zena's breed can suit first-time owners, her strong prey drive and selective dog preferences suggest a bit of prior dog experience is helpful. Patience and willingness to keep working with her will serve best.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Shepherd/mixed breeds like Zena can be dog selective; she prefers male dogs and slow introductions. Careful matching and thoughtful introductions help her succeed in multi-dog homes.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
Zena has a high prey drive, so a home without cats would be best for her. Many shepherd/mix dogs share this trait and do better away from feline companions.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Due to her strong prey instincts, Zena would likely not do well with smaller pets like rabbits or rodents. The breed’s background often includes a chasing instinct.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Shepherd/mix dogs are often friendly but can be cautious around new people. Zena herself is loving and wants to connect, though she’ll do best with gentle, positive introductions.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Zena and most shepherd/mix dogs do best with regular human interaction and can become lonely if left for extended periods. Around 4-6 hours is about right, with breaks and activities.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
These mixes benefit from positive, consistent training. Zena already has basic manners, but ongoing practice and patience—especially around her feet—will help her continue maturing.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Shepherd-mixed breed dogs like Zena are usually medium sized, around 40-60 lbs. Zena is about 45 lbs, fitting right in that range.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Shepherd/mixed breeds like Zena generally live between 10 to 14 years, often enjoying robust health when given proper care, exercise, and regular vet checks.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Shepherd/mixed breeds tend to shed moderately throughout the year. Regular brushing will help keep Zena’s coat in good shape and minimize hair around the home.