Buddy is a 3-year-old, 65-pound lab mix who after being found as a stray, ended up with Desert Labrador Retriever Rescue (DLRR) when the people who found him couldn’t keep him. With no foster home available, Buddy has been staying at Heidi’s Village, where he’s getting all the training and care he needs to be ready for his forever family.

Buddy is crate-trained, housebroken, and loves car rides! He’s had positive experiences with kids in his previous home and has shown he’s all about people, with no signs of aggression whatsoever. This sweet boy is just thrilled when he’s around his human friends – he loves to run, play with his rope toy or a ball, and radiates joy in every playful moment.

Buddy does, however, have some reactivity to other dogs, which means he’ll do best in a home where he can be the only dog. Being in a kennel environment with many dogs around has been a challenge for him, but DLRR is committed to helping him work through it. He’s been working with a dedicated trainer who says, “Buddy is like a Ferrari; once you get to know how to handle him, he’s a blast!” It’s a great analogy for this energetic and loving pup who’s learning to channel his energy in the right way and he will need a strong leader to continue to maintain his growth and success.

Here’s the good news: Buddy’s trainer is more than willing to meet with you and Buddy to help everyone get comfortable and answer any questions. This initial support will help set both you and Buddy up for success.

In return, you’ll get a loving companion who’s devoted to you, greets you with a wagging tail, and makes every day just a little brighter.  With a bit of guidance, some ongoing training, and a patient hand, Buddy is learning every day how to stay calm around other dogs and be the best dog for the right forever family.