Hi, I’m Dexter—a 5‑year‑old, 13.6‑pound Miniature Schnauzer with a snowy white coat, a funny personality, and a whole lot of love to give. I’m house‑trained, leash‑trained, neutered, vaccinated, and heartworm negative. I may be small, but I’ve got a big presence and an even bigger heart. I’m a sweet, playful guy who loves my people deeply. I’m also vocal in the cutest way—when you wake up in the morning or come home after being gone, I let out my little “aroooo” to say hello. I’m affectionate, funny, and full of personality, and once I bond with you, I’m incredibly loyal. I currently live with two cats and don’t bother them at all. I also live with two older dogs, and with time, I can coexist peacefully. But I do have some resource‑guarding tendencies, especially around food or treats, and I have gotten aggressive with the male dog in the home during those moments. I’ve also shown aggression toward unfamiliar dogs at the dog park or on walks, so I’m not a dog who enjoys meeting new canine friends out in public. I was raised by two seniors in a very quiet, rural home with little structure or socialization for the first four years of my life. This has caused me to have severe separation anxiety and issues with new people and dogs. Over the past year, relatives have worked hard with me, and I’ve made real progress. I even completed a board‑and‑train program, but I still need ongoing structure, patience, and understanding. For this reason, I’m good with older children, teenagers and up, but I’m not a match for homes with younger kids. I’ve bitten people before when I felt scared or protective. If a stranger knocks on the door or comes inside I used to react but through training, have gotten much better with this. Now I might fuss for a few minutes but then calm down. I do startle easily when I’m woken up suddenly, and I may react out of fear. I take Reconcile to help me with anxiety and it has been very helpful for me. It helps me feel safe and regulated, and I’ll need to stay on it as part of my care. I’m only being rehomed because my senior parents passed away. I’m looking for a family who has the time, patience, and commitment to continue my training and help me feel secure. I’m a loving dog with so much potential—I just need the right people who understand me and can give me the stability I’ve never really had. I’m located in Murfreesboro, TN, but I can be transported to other locations for the right home. A transport fee may apply. If you’re experienced, patient, and ready to help a sweet, sensitive boy thrive, I might be the perfect match for you.