Ralphy

Ralphy is a gorgeous, affectionate boy with a huge heart and a love for life’s simple pleasures. He is calm, cuddly and deeply people oriented, the kind of dog who wants to be wherever you are and will happily curl up beside you for a stroke or a snooze. He’s 8 years old and around 32kg, and a German Shepherd X.

In the home, Ralphy is a dream. He is relaxed, clean and well mannered, happy to follow you from room to room before settling on his bed when things are quiet. He has been brilliant while his foster carer works from home, calmly chilling all day until it’s time for a walk. He sleeps in his hallway bed overnight and greets you cheerfully in the morning.

Ralphy is very affectionate and thrives on human contact. Sofa time is his favourite time, and if the strokes stop, you might get a gentle nudge to remind you. He has no food guarding issues, eats gently, takes treats nicely and is happy to share. He can be left for a few hours without barking or chewing and is fully toilet trained.

Out and about, Ralphy has made fantastic progress. He initially pulled on the lead but is now walking nicely with consistent cues and praise. Loose lead walking is still a work in progress, especially if squirrels are involved, but he is eager to learn and improving all the time. He ignores bikes, runners and passing people, and responds well to “leave it” when spotting wildlife. He enjoys off lead runs in an enclosed field and is beginning to ignore birds too, suggesting his prey drive is often more excitement than intent.

Ralphy travels well in the car and loves looking out of the window. He adores toys, especially anything squeaky, and will happily empty the toy box in search of his favourites. He loves playing with his foster Labrador and would really enjoy having a confident canine companion. Although he has lived as an only dog for many years, he would benefit from sharing his home with another friendly dog, ideally another lurcher to run and play with.

He is generally good with other dogs when introductions are handled sensibly. He may bark at unfamiliar dogs at first but settles quickly when guided. He is fine with dogs he knows, including smaller dogs he has already met, though we would advise careful introductions with small dogs. Ralphy is not cat friendly and would need a cat free home.

Ralphy can be a little anxious around some strangers, particularly if he feels crowded. He prefers people to let him approach in his own time. He has been affectionate and relaxed with many male and female visitors, but a calm, understanding home would suit him best. Because of his size and sensitivity, he would not be suitable for a home with children.

His recall is improving and he responds well to his name indoors and in the garden, as well as to the promise of a squeaky tennis ball. Until this is fully reliable, he would benefit from a long line or secure spaces for off lead fun.

Ralphy is frightened of fireworks and would need a home willing to support him during noisy events. Adaptil has already helped him cope better.

Ralphy is a loving, loyal companion who just wants a peaceful home, gentle guidance and plenty of affection. In return, he will give you constant companionship, endless cuddles and a warm presence by your side.

If you’re looking for a calm, affectionate dog who will quickly become your shadow and your best friend, Ralphy could be the one for you.