Kiki

Kiki is a loving, affectionate girl who thrives being close to her people. At home she is calm, house-trained, and completely comfortable with everyday noises such as the vacuum and hairdryer. She has never shown aggression towards her current owner or anyone she knows, her food can be taken away without any issue, and she can be left alone without causing damage (though she has a mischievous tendency to steal anything she thinks might be edible!).

Outdoors is a different story. Kiki can become anxious and overstimulated, especially around other dogs and wildlife. When she spots another dog she may bark, lunge and appear frantic — this seems rooted in anxiety rather than true aggression, as she usually settles if given the chance to meet them. On lead runs with other dogs she often starts by barking but typically calms after about 20 minutes and may then want to interact. She has a strong prey drive and will chase birds or other animals, and once outside she is often far more focused on her surroundings than on toys or treats.

Kiki appears to have been under-socialised as a lockdown puppy and arrived with no training, which likely contributes to her struggles in busy environments. She knows a good range of cues — sit, lie down, catch, find it, yes, wait, bed, look at me, lick, no and leave it — but her recall is inconsistent. She will return when there are no distractions, yet often hesitates or switches off when something interesting appears. A long line will be essential while her recall is strengthened.

She is not particularly play-driven, especially outside, though she sometimes enjoys a brief game of tug or a squeaky ball. What she truly loves is running. She has canicross equipment and once even won a local running race (not a canicross event!). She is happy to travel by car — she jumps in eagerly and doesn’t get travel sick, though she may whine a little in the boot. She has stayed in local kennels and coped well, albeit pulling hard on the lead and losing a little weight.

Kiki’s nails wear unevenly on forest tracks, so the tips can grow long and split; she strongly dislikes nail trimming and will try to escape it.

Kiki needs a quiet home, calm walks, and a strong, steady handler who understands anxiety-based reactivity and can help her feel safe when the world gets overwhelming. In the right hands she is a loyal, affectionate companion who just needs patience, structure and understanding.

If you think you could give this special girl the calm, consistent life she deserves, please get in touch.