Crosspost for Northern Virginia Sheltie Rescue Champ is a dog that must have a man in his forever home. Since Champ’s single dad died unexpectedly last fall, Champ has been moved around to various caregivers. At each home, he immediately bonded with the male in the household. When he came to NVSR, we observed the same phenomenon. Perhaps because his original owner was a single male, Champ shows a clear preference for men and has bonded most strongly with the male in each foster home. His foster moms clearly understood they were “second best” if his male hero was at home. While he is friendly and cuddly with humans in general, it is clear he will always jump first into the lap of his male caregiver. Champ has very good house manners and never has accidents in the house. He loves to be brushed and will readily shift from active playing to snuggling in his human’s lap. While he loves toys and will occasionally destroy less sturdy ones, he does not damage the property of others. Champ is a very enthusiastic little dog who is eager to learn and engages readily in almost any activity his humans offer. His intelligence, speed, and agile movement make him a great candidate for dog sports like agility or fly ball. While he gets along with other dogs, we think he might be happiest as the only dog if his humans give him plenty of attention and are willing to respond to his frequent requests to play with him. He typically needs a day or two of calm to decompress in new settings before his playful, affectionate nature emerges. The right home for Champ would have one or two active humans, including the calm male figure Champ seems to need who will mentor him and give this youngster the clear guidance and affection he requires. He is a very social dog and needs someone home much of the day. A good-sized securely fenced yard is an absolute must. An energetic resident dog willing to play with Champ would be welcome but is not essential. Because Champ was severely attacked in a dog park as a puppy, dog parks are definitely off limits for him. But training programs in which participating dogs are under good control would yield big benefits for Champ, who would likely be the star student. Champ has been neutered, tested for all parasites, and brought up to date on all vaccines. He is in excellent health and ready now to look for his forever home. Champ is 4 years old, weighs 18 pounds, and is 14 inches tall. His adoption fee is $350. A home visit and application are required before a meet and greet. Applications can be submitted through www.nvsr.org