Ralphie

Available

6 months - 2 years|Shih Tzu, Maltese|Male|Small|Winsted, CT

🤗 Affectionate🎾 Playful🐕 Dog Friendly👨‍💼 Adult Home Only🏠 Single Animal Home

Ralphie

Available

6 months - 2 years|Shih Tzu, Maltese|Male|Small|Winsted, CT

🤗 Affectionate🎾 Playful🐕 Dog Friendly👨‍💼 Adult Home Only🏠 Single Animal Home

Ralphie is a small, male Shih Tzu and Maltese mix, around three years old. He has a medium coat and is house trained. Altered and vaccinated, Ralphie is currently located in Winsted, CT, and weighs approximately 14 pounds. He craves affection and enjoys the company of other dogs.

About Ralphie

Meet Ralphie, a resilient young soul looking for his forever home after a long journey. This sweet Shih Tzu and Maltese mix, with his charming white and tan coat, has been in the rescue for about a year. Found tied to a chainlink fence in Hartford, Ralphie initially struggled with fear and anxiety, but after dedicated training and socialization, he is now ready to find a loving family. Ralphie is approximately two to three years old and weighs around 14 pounds. He thrives around other dogs and enjoys playing with them, regardless of size. Car rides and walks bring him joy as well. Although he once exhibited possessive behaviors and was fearful of brooms, Ralphie has made remarkable progress. He now comfortably shares food and has even shown affection to his vet during visits. While he adores companionship, he would best flourish in a home with an experienced owner who understands his needs and can help him adjust. We suggest no small children for his comfort. Ralphie deserves a patient friend who will savor the journey to trust. Ready to add this affectionate buddy to your life? Click apply to start the adoption process.

Adoption Fee

$525

Payment after application.

Help Ralphie find his forever home. Pay easily via credit card or other convenient payment methods.

Rescues & Shelters

Muddy Moose Mutts Inc.

Location Address: Winsted, CT 06098 Get directions

Questions about Ralphie

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Ralphie, as a Shih Tzu and Maltese mix, is well suited for a calm, loving environment where he can feel secure and comfortable.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
This breed typically does well in smaller spaces, like apartments or homes with small yards, as long as they get regular walks and playtime.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Due to Ralphie's past and need for a secure environment, he is best suited for homes without small children to ensure his comfort.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
Ralphie needs an experienced owner who understands dog body language and can help him adjust slowly to a new home.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Ralphie loves other dogs and shows great joy when playing with them.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
Ralphie's profile does not specify his behavior with cats, so an introduction would be necessary.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
His camaraderie with dogs suggests he might tolerate small animals, but careful supervision would be required.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Ralphie can be shy around strangers due to his past trauma, but he is improving and has shown affection to caregivers over time.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Generally, this breed prefers companionship and should not be left alone for extended periods to avoid stress.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Ralphie requires ongoing training to help him build confidence and adapt to new situations, especially with an experienced owner.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
As a small breed, Ralphie falls within the small size range, making him easily adaptable to various living situations.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Shih Tzu and Maltese mixes usually have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years, assuming proper care.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Ralphie has a medium coat, which will require regular grooming, but he tends to shed less than other breeds.