More about Hot Dog

Adoption fee: $750 Meet Hot Dog, a 4 month old Maltese mix puppy weighing about 7 lbs who came to the shelter with his siblings Hamburger and French Fry— and yes, he is just as delightful as his name suggests. Hot Dog is a small pup with a big personality, full of charm, confidence, and a little bit of theatrical flair that keeps everyone laughing. He also has a soft, non-shedding coat, which will require regular grooming but is a great fit for homes looking for a dog that doesn't shed.   Hot Dog starts his day around 7:30 a.m. with an immediate trip outside, followed by breakfast at 8:00. He spends his mornings playing with his foster’s dogs, entertaining himself with toys, and zooming around the kitchen and backyard where he has most of his daytime access. Lunch is served at noon, and the afternoon is a mix of play, exploration, and cuddles. By about 8:00 p.m., he begins to slow down and happily curls up on the couch with his people. His last potty break is around 10:00 p.m., complete with a final burst of energy running around the bedroom, and then it’s off to his crate at 10:30, where he settles in easily for the night. He is an excellent sleeper and even enjoys sneaking in extra rest time after early-morning potty breaks.   Personality-wise, Hot Dog is confident, funny, affectionate, and delightfully dramatic. When he first arrived, he was a bit shy and introverted, sticking close and seeming unsure of the world. Within a few days, his confidence blossomed— he started playing with the resident dogs, venturing outside on his own, and discovering the joy of toys and puppy antics. Now, he’s a happy, playful pup who loves laps, snuggles, and being right in the middle of whatever is happening. He’s very much a “velcro” type who enjoys following his people from room to room and racing up and down hallways at top speed. He thinks being picked up is a game, often darting away playfully just out of reach, playing keep-away!   Hot Dog lives with two large dogs in his foster home and does great with them. He happily plays with the younger dog, while the older one politely ignores him. He’s also done well with several other dogs and has interacted positively with teenagers. His playful energy shines through— he loves to run, romp, and explore— and while he hasn’t been on formal walks since he just finished his vaccines, he’s beginning to learn about the leash in the yard. At the moment, he tends to sit rather than pull, clearly still figuring out how the whole walking thing works.   Like most puppies, Hot Dog is a work in progress when it comes to house training. He’s familiar with potty pads, is crate-trained, and is starting to learn about using the doggy door. With consistency and patience, he continues to improve. He is also teething and enjoys chewing on appropriate toys and the occasional stick from the yard. Supervision and chew toys help redirect his curiosity.   Hot Dog would thrive in a home that enjoys an affectionate, involved puppy with lots of personality. He’d do well with other pets or as an only dog, and he’d be happy in a home that enjoys spending time together and including him in daily life. His future family should be ready to continue his puppy training and grooming needs, and appreciate his enthusiasm, humor, and need to be part of the action.   What truly sets Hot Dog apart is his sweetness and heart. With his little tongue, heart-shaped nose, expressive ears, and joyful spirit, he has a way of winning people over instantly. He’s loyal, curious, endearing, and endlessly entertaining— especially when he suddenly takes off at full speed, racing joyful circles around anyone nearby for no apparent reason. Hot Dog is a lovable, snuggly pup whose confidence grows every day, and he’s ready to bring laughter, warmth, and a whole lot of love to his forever home.