Buttercup is a 5-year-old, 14-pound Shih Tzu with a soft, sweet nature and a gentle personality that continues to shine more each day as she learns the world can be safe and kind. She is highly food motivated, which helps her build trust and makes her responsive during calm, structured interactions.

Buttercup has her favorite people, and once she has developed a bond and feels comfortable, she will solicit affection and ask for pets and chin scratches. She is still a sensitive girl who does best when given time to process new experiences and allowed to engage at her own pace. When she feels safe and comfortable, she can be very affectionate with the people she trusts.

Buttercup has recently mastered walking on leash and will consistently follow her handlers in and out of her kennel. While she has made great progress, she can still become a little flustered when she feels overwhelmed. An ideal household will understand that Buttercup is sensitive to handling and will provide slow, gentle, and predictable interactions. Her family should be comfortable recognizing her signals, giving her space when needed, and allowing her to build trust before asking too much of her. Going at her pace and setting her up for success will be important as she continues to adjust and learn.

Buttercup enjoys the company of other dogs and is generally comfortable socializing with them. She is also good at communicating her boundaries and will politely let other dogs know when their energy becomes too much for her and she needs a moment to decompress. An ideal canine companion would be respectful of these signals and allow her the space she needs to take a break and recover.

Buttercup has previously completed heartworm treatment while in NMDR care and may require follow-up veterinary care with her adopter's veterinarian to support her continued health and well-being.

A required in-person meet and greet at our shelter is part of the adoption process to help ensure a good fit for both Buttercup and her potential adopters.

With the right environment-calm, patient, consistent, and respectful of her boundaries-Buttercup has shown that she can continue building trust and making wonderful progress. She is looking for a family who will meet her where she is, go at her pace, and give her the time and support she needs to feel safe and comfortable.

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Many NMDR dogs have had limited prior socialization and may need time, patience, and support as they adjust to home life. Skills such as house training, leash walking, and handling may require continued practice. Progress will vary by individual dog. Homes with older children are often a good fit, depending on temperament. To learn more about NMDR and our adoption process, please visit our website.