Ted
Ted is a sensitive, gentle lurcher with a huge heart and a deeply affectionate nature once he feels safe. He is a quiet soul who has clearly experienced a lot in his past, and while the world can feel overwhelming for him at times, there is not a single ounce of aggression in him. Those who earn his trust are rewarded with the softest cuddles, face nuzzles and a dog who truly adores his people.
At home, Ted is very calm and incredibly lazy. He sleeps a lot, loves soft beds and sofas, and settles beautifully after a walk. He is fully clean in the house and can hold himself for long periods, especially in poor weather. Since starting Fluoxetine and with careful, gradual training, he can now be left for up to a couple of hours without distress, provided he has been walked first and is settled.
Ted is affectionate in his own gentle way. He may appear aloof at first, but with his trusted people he will happily climb onto laps, press his head into your face for kisses and show just how loving he really is. He is extremely docile and tolerant, with no guarding issues in his current home and excellent manners around food and handling.
Walks are Ted’s biggest challenge. He does want to go out and enjoys exploring, but he is highly anxious and easily overwhelmed by sounds, movement and other dogs. He may freeze when he hears voices, barking or unfamiliar noises, or become distressed if he sees dogs even at a distance. For this reason, he is always muzzled on walks and wears a red coat to signal that he needs space. Quiet, rural style walks with plenty of distance from triggers suit him best.
Ted is not reactive in the home, but visitors can be difficult for him. With a clear routine, calm handling and the help of treats, he can settle reasonably quickly, though he remains wary and may vocalise if people move around unexpectedly. He does not seek attention from visitors and prefers to keep his distance. An adult only home with minimal visitors, or adopters confident in managing introductions, would suit him best.
Ted would be happiest as an only dog. While he has tolerated brief, carefully managed greetings, other dogs significantly increase his anxiety outdoors and day to day life is easier for him without canine housemates.
He travels in the car and will get in willingly, though he can be vocal and anxious, particularly if he sees people or dogs nearby. His prey drive is high, typical of a sighthound, and he will need secure handling and a very secure garden.
Ted is food motivated and capable of learning, but training must be gentle, patient and entirely on his terms. Progress comes slowly, but it does come, and he has already made meaningful improvements with the right support.
Ted is not a dog for everyone. He needs an experienced, understanding home that values quiet companionship over busy adventures. In return, he will offer unwavering loyalty, deep affection and the knowledge that you have changed the life of a truly gentle soul who just needs the world to slow down for him.
If you are sighthound savvy, calm, patient and ready to offer Ted the safe, predictable home he deserves, he could be the most rewarding companion you will ever have.
