Meet Handsome Howard! Howard is the sweetest Texas boy you’ll ever meet. He has survived and overcome so much in his short life, and instead of hardening him, those experiences have made him gentler, softer, and deeply affectionate. Howard is very much a puppy at heart tucked inside a big boy’s body, and he is just beginning to experience many of life’s “firsts” in foster care after being found as a stray. Howard is curious, observant, and loves being close to his person. He happily follows his human from room to room, watching household chores and checking out appliances like a little apprentice. He thrives on connection and clearly finds comfort in being included in daily life. Howard loves toys of all kinds and is playful with dogs of all sizes. He can be a bit unsure around larger dogs at first, so slow, respectful introductions are important. He does wonderfully with small dogs and is especially polite with their boundaries (especially chihuahuas!). Like the puppy he is at heart, he may start play a little enthusiastically, but he responds beautifully to gentle verbal correction and quickly adjusts to playing softly. Howard is currently in a busy foster home with multiple dogs and enjoys the activity, but he would likely do best long-term in a quieter, more predictable environment, either as an only dog or with one or two calm companions. He has not been tested with cats or small children. A note about Howard’s past, Howard struggled in the shelter environment—which, honestly, who wouldn’t? The constant noise, confinement, and loneliness caused significant stress, and he injured his tail, resulting in a partial amputation. True to his resilient nature, he recovered beautifully, and his unique look only adds to his charm. Howard is currently on medication to help manage anxiety related to past kennel stress. This is not anxiety that presents as aggression, destructiveness, escape behaviors, or leash issues. He takes medication that simply helps him slow down, settle, and enjoy life. He walks calmly beside his person with no pulling and rests comfortably in a standard kennel with no special latches required. Howard thrives on structure and routine. A predictable daily schedule gives him confidence and helps him understand expectations. He loves to please and absolutely lights up with praise (as all handsome boys should). As Howard continues to decompress and grow, it is very possible that he will not need medication long-term. In just three months with his foster, he has made tremendous progress. With a knowledgeable adopter and, ideally, a trainer experienced in confidence-building and anxiety recovery, Howard has every reason to continue improving. What Makes Howard Truly Special • When Howard feels unsure or needs reassurance, he seeks comfort from his person by gently placing his paws on them for a hug. This is not jumping—it’s communication. Once he hears how handsome and wonderful he is and gets a reassuring hug, he’s ready to explore again. • While Howard enters a kennel calmly, he may experience mild stress for a short time after being released. A walk, shared playtime, and affection help him rebound quickly. Feeding time is handled best by placing his food in a private space before he enters. Howard is incredibly smart and quickly learns routines, making this simple and stress-free. Howard is a good eater but remains on the lean side (likely due to medication), so he gets to enjoy plenty of treats, pup cups, and enrichment as you build your bond together. Howard currently chooses where he sleeps and often pulls his bed alongside his foster mom’s bed. He is fully potty trained and accident-free, though he does need a morning potty break between 5–6 a.m. Howard’s love is deep, genuine, and incredibly special. George Strait sang the truth—All My Ex’s Live in Texas—and Howard has two Texas foster moms who think the world of him. Now he’s ready to find the person who will be his forever. Apply Here: https://www.trinafriendsk9rescue.org/new-page