Athena

Available

7 years old|American Staffordshire Terrier, Mixed Breed|Female|Medium|Fairfax, VA

🐾 Friendly🤐 Quiet🧠 Smart👍 Knows basic commands🚽 House Trained

Athena

Available

7 years old|American Staffordshire Terrier, Mixed Breed|Female|Medium|Fairfax, VA

🐾 Friendly🤐 Quiet🧠 Smart👍 Knows basic commands🚽 House Trained

Athena is a medium-sized, gray/blue/silver American Staffordshire Terrier mix who is nearly 8 years old. She’s a senior female, spayed and up to date on vaccinations. Athena is housebroken and prefers an adult-only home. She is healthy overall with a manageable floating kneecap and possible mild allergies. Athena currently resides in Fairfax Station, VA and is ready for her next chapter.

About Athena

Athena is a sweet-natured senior girl, nearly 8 years old, searching for a quiet forever home. She’s a true people-lover—especially fond of adults—and greets visitors, cleaning staff, and dog walkers with ease. If you mention cheese, her favorite treat, she lights up and will show you her stash of tricks. At home, her comfort toy is a hedgehog she mouths when the world gets too busy, and she’s a fan of tennis balls for play. Athena enjoys long trail walks and sunbathing on the back deck. Her fashion sense shines through with every hoodie; she loves showing off her sweaters. This dog is housebroken, crate trained (though she doesn’t need it), and never destructive. She does beg occasionally, but it’s hard to resist her. Athena’s history is tough—she was abandoned with ten pups in a storm in Puerto Rico, rescued, and came north to find new beginnings. She’s dog selective and not good with cats or kids, so an adult-only, pet-free home suits her best. She knows several commands and enjoys agility. She’s working on leash manners; sometimes she reacts to larger dogs or delivery trucks, especially when overstimulated. Physically, she’s healthy for her age, though she manages a floating kneecap and occasional skin allergies. Athena is ready for someone patient, experienced, and willing to let her settle in at her pace. If you’re looking for a calm, affectionate companion who adores routine and comfort, Athena may be your perfect match. Adoption fee is sponsored and she’s waiting in Fairfax Station, VA. This could be the start of something paw-some.

Adoption Fee

Inquire directly with rescue.

Adoption fees can usually be paid via credit card, or other convenient methods. Please check with the shelter for specific payment methods.

Rescues & Shelters

Homeward Trails Animal Rescue, Inc.(703) 249-5066

Location Address: 11116 Fairfax Station Rd. Fairfax, VA 22032 Get directions

Questions about Athena

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Athena, as an American Staffordshire Terrier mix, does best in a calm environment with structure and routine. She thrives in a quiet adult household where she can be the only pet.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Athena loves her walks and enjoys time outside sunbathing. A secure backyard or easy access to walking trails would make her happy, but daily walks matter most for her breed.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
American Staffordshire Terrier mixes can sometimes do well with kids, but Athena prefers an adult-only home and should not live with children.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
Athena would be happiest with someone experienced, familiar with dog body language and patient training, as her breed mix can be strong-willed and she has specific needs.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Athena is dog selective and prefers to coexist quietly, rather than play or interact. This breed can vary, but Athena would be best as the only dog in the home.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
American Staffordshire Terrier mixes don’t always mesh well with cats, and Athena has shown she’s not comfortable around them. A cat-free home is best for her.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
This breed has a higher prey drive, and Athena’s terrier side comes out around small animals like squirrels. She would do best without small animal companions.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Athena is friendly and relaxed with adult visitors, happy to greet those coming into her home. Staffordshire mixes are known for their people-friendly attitudes when properly socialized.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Athena is crate and house trained, so she can be left alone for several hours, but thrives on companionship and a set routine. Ideally, she’s not left for a full work day, so she can enjoy walks and time with her person.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
American Staffordshire Terrier mixes are smart and trainable but benefit from clear leadership. Athena knows many commands and would enjoy further training, especially around leash reactions.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Athena is a medium-sized dog, and American Staffordshire Terrier mixes usually fall between 40 and 70 pounds.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
The typical lifespan for an American Staffordshire Terrier mix is around 12 to 16 years, and Athena is in her senior years at almost 8.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Athena’s breed mix has a short coat that sheds moderately. Regular brushing helps keep shedding manageable.