Simba

PUPDATE 11.11.26

Meet Simba:
If you're looking for a dog who will make you feel loved every single day, let me introduce you to Simba!



Simba spent time lost and alone in central MN before he was rescued. He came to us very skinny, with significant injuries (animal bites) and is still healing, both physically and emotionally. Simba is getting more of his personality back everyday snd and is so excited to find his forever family!



Simba is a young, sweet and affectionate boxer who seems genuinely grateful for every little thing life has to offer. His favorite things? Being close to his people, learning something new, looking out the window, getting treats, and lots of hugs. He's a head-on-your-knee, head-in-your-hand, "please give me some love" kind of guy.



He's incredibly smart and eager to please, especially when food is involved. If you're willing to cut up a hot dog into tiny pieces, Simba will happily train with you all day! He's already mastered sit and stay and is working on wait. He'll even politely sit for his leash, meals, and just about anything else you ask of him.



Simba is also discovering just how much fun life can be. He's transitioned into apartment living in the city beautifully, figured out how to ride the elevator, loves car rides (nap time), and has recently learned to play with toys when he gets bored or excited. He is also learning that he doesn't always have to be right next to his person to feel safe. Just recently, he chose to sleep in another room all by himself. That's a pretty big milestone for a boy who's still learning that his people aren't going to disappear.



He's also still learning a few things about the world. When outside, he tends to keep an eye out for food scraps, and squirrels are VERY tempting! These are likely habits from a time when finding food and looking out for himself were necessary. He's working on "leave it" and will benefit from continued positive reinforcement and consistency.



Meeting new people is another area where Simba needs a little understanding. He's wonderful when introduced to people who are already comfortably settled in the home. Give him a few minutes, and he'll likely be looking for affection from his new friend. However, unexpected visitors approaching or entering the home can make him nervous. He may retreat or bark a few times. He does best when introductions happen calmly and on his terms.



Simba is comfortable in his kennel and enjoys having it as his own space, but he's not yet kennel trained ("don't leave me"!!!). He's still learning to manage the anxiety that comes with being separated from his people. With patience, consistency, and someone willing to help him build confidence, this is something he can continue working toward.



Simba will thrive in a calm, loving home with someone
who understands that trust takes time. Someone who will celebrate the little milestones, continue his training, give him reassurance without making him feel pressured, and let him settle into his new life at his own pace.



In return you will get an incredibly loving companion who wakes up happy every morning, is excited about everything life has to offer, and will happily remind you throughout the day that it's time for a hug.



Simba has already met many of his foster's family members and friends, and he has loved them all. He's thriving in his foster home, learning new things every day, and showing more of his personality as he becomes comfortable.



Simba's Ideal Home



Simba would do best as the only pet in the home for now, giving him the opportunity to settle in, build confidence, and enjoy having his people all to himself.



He has not been around young children during his current foster placement, so we haven't had an opportunity to evaluate that firsthand. We understand he did well with children in a previous environment, but any introductions should be thoughtful and slow.



More than anything, Simba needs a calm, patient home with someone who understands that he's still healing and learning to trust. In return, you'll get an incredibly affectionate, loyal companion who will make sure you never go too long without a hug!



I'd love nothing more than for Simba to find his forever family before the holidays.

He deserves a home where he can finally unpack his bags, feel safe, and know that he's not going to be left behind again.