Animal Profile: Nelson is a 2-year-old 28 lb hunky little short stack with a big personality and an even bigger smile. Originally labeled as a "Shiba Inu" mix, Nelson has since been DNA tested and is a Pit Bull/Cattle Dog/Fox Terrier mix, which explains his charm and his smarts.

Nelson is being returned to the rescue after a year and a half due to his incompatibility with one of the two children in the home. Nelson does not appreciate hugs and cuddles especially while he is sleeping and even with multiple warnings including snaps and tooth contact, has never offered an injury inflicting bite.

With his winning grin, compact build, and engaging personality, Nelson is ready to be someone's loyal companion. He just needs the right match to thrive.

Foster Update: Nelson is an active, engaging, and intelligent dog who truly wants a job to do and a person to do it with. He thrives when his days include a healthy balance of mental stimulation, physical exercise, and clear, confident leadership.

This handsome boy has already put in a lot of work to set himself up for success. He has completed a board-and-train program with Mayhem Dog Training and is fully e-collar trained, giving him a strong foundation in structure and communication. Nelson also did well in a daycare setting with Rocket Dogs, where he enjoyed appropriate social interaction and play.

He is currently in foster care with On The Mark Balanced Training in Snohomish, WA, where he gets to enjoy an active, structured lifestyle that suits him well. His routine includes off-leash adventures, treadmill workouts, and time with a well-managed pack of dogs-activities that help him stay balanced, fulfilled, and engaged.

Nelson would do best in an adult-only home, either as an only dog or with a calm, well-balanced canine companion. His ideal adopter is someone with e-collar experience or someone open to learning and continuing his training journey. He responds very well to structure and will thrive with consistency and clear expectations.

Ongoing support is available after adoption: Joy from Mayhem Dog Training is happy to provide follow-up lessons to help ensure a smooth and successful transition into his new home.

Nelson's journey hasn't been an easy one. He was originally found as a stray and taken to a shelter in early September 2024. When no one came forward to claim him, he captured the heart of a rescue partner who saw his potential and invested in his future. Now, after everything he's learned and overcome, Nelson is ready for his fresh start with the right family.

He's looking for someone who will appreciate his drive, guide his energy, and give him the structure he needs to thrive. In return, Nelson will offer loyalty, enthusiasm, and a true partnership built on trust and teamwork.

Adoption Info: Adoption fee is $575 which includes spay/neuter, core vaccinations per AVMA standards, heartworm test if applicable, and microchip with registration. Your adoption fee may be tax deductible as DGS is a 501c3 organization. All adoption fees go toward the care of all dogs in our rescue.

Apply Online: www.DogGoneSeattle.org/adoption-application

Animal History:
This dog was returned to the rescue after 18 months in a home, originally transported from Caddo Parish Animal Shelter in Shreveport Louisiana via Tail Lights Rescue Project in 2024. He will be available for adoption once evaluated in foster care in the Seattle area.