Feisty

Available

3-7 years|Parson Russell Terrier, Australian Shepherd|Male|Medium|Virginia Beach, VA

🙈 Shy☺️ Gentle

Feisty

Available

3-7 years|Parson Russell Terrier, Australian Shepherd|Male|Medium|Virginia Beach, VA

🙈 Shy☺️ Gentle

This male, medium-sized Parson Russell Terrier/Australian Shepherd mix is currently at the Virginia Beach SPCA. He is an adult who has been spayed/neutered. Feisty has a shy, gentle personality and has overcome a difficult past. He will need a calm, understanding home and would do best with experienced adopters ready to offer love and patience.

About Feisty

Ready to fall in love? Hit apply and lets get started. This medium-sized, mixed-breed gentleman came from a challenging past, having lived with 200 other dogs before his arrival at VBSPCA. Dogs from situations like his require extra time, patience, and understanding to settle into their new home. Adopters should be prepared for multiple meet-and-greets to ensure the best match for both you and Feisty. The staff is committed to addressing any medical needs and will guide you through common considerations when adopting an undersocialized dog. Feisty is a sweet but very shy dog who is beginning his journey toward a much-deserved new life by the beach. Because of his fearfulness, he will only be placed in homes with children aged 16 or older. Loud noises and sudden movements frighten him, so a calm and predictable environment is a must. He would thrive with another confident canine friend and should meet potential siblings before adoption. For his safety, please bring a crate for transport home, as he is known for trying to escape if scared. The kennel team is happy to share up-to-date information about his care and answer any questions you may have. Every animal deserves a happy ending. This one starts with you.

Questions about Feisty

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Parson Russell Terrier and Australian Shepherd mixes are best suited for active households with access to a yard or outdoor space. They appreciate environments where they have plenty of stimulation and opportunities to exercise throughout the day.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
This mix typically benefits from a securely fenced yard or daily access to a safe outdoor area. Regular walks and playtime are essential to meet their mental and physical needs.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
With proper socialization, these breeds can make great family pets. However, due to their energetic nature and sometimes sensitive temperament, supervision with younger children is often encouraged.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
This combination is usually best for owners with some dog experience, particularly those comfortable with intelligent, active breeds that may need consistent training and mental stimulation.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Both Parson Russell Terriers and Australian Shepherds are sociable with other dogs when appropriately introduced. Early socialization helps them get along with canine companions.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
With early introductions, these breeds can coexist with cats, but their herding or prey drive may require careful management. Supervision and positive reinforcement are recommended for multi-pet households.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Due to their working and herding backgrounds, this mix may have a high prey drive. Caution should be used around small animals, and interactions should always be supervised.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
These breeds are often reserved with strangers at first but warm up once they feel comfortable. Socialization can help reduce shyness or wariness in new situations.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
This mix prefers not to be left alone for long periods, as both breeds thrive on companionship and activity. Prolonged isolation can lead to boredom or separation anxiety.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
They benefit from consistent, positive-reinforcement training and mental enrichment. Their intelligence allows them to learn quickly, but they also need clear boundaries and structure.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
This mix usually falls into the medium size range, with an average adult weight between 20 and 45 pounds depending on individual genetics.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Both Parson Russell Terriers and Australian Shepherds are long-lived breeds. This mix often enjoys a lifespan of 12 to 15 years with proper care.
How much does this breed typically shed?
This mix sheds a moderate amount throughout the year, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. Regular brushing helps manage their coat and keep shedding under control.