Toby Bichon Frise & Poodle Mix Claremont, CA

Toby is an extremely loyal little best-friend! His ideal owner will be around him a lot, and will be willing to stop what they are doing to play, for at least a quick moment, at least every hour or so when home. Else he’s happy to sit by his humans’ feet while you do whatever you’re doing, hover next to you in the kitchen, and jump on your lap when you sit down. He’ll drop toys next to you and flash an irresistible puppy face when he wants to play; he loves fetch with tennis balls and tug of war with raggedy toys (try to lift him up by the jaw when he’s really holding on - it’s amazing!)

Toby is about 2 years old and weighs much less that you'd think under his thick,lush coat. He's a scrappy little guy and, while he thrives on a lot of activity and excitement, he’s not high-maintenance. Anyone who can commit to games with him will make a big difference by doing so; just sitting and throwing a ball is great, but he’ll really love you if you show some enthusiasm. He’s very fit and happy to go on a five-mile jog every day. Or he can jump from a sit position to chest height if you hold treats up for him! Toby’s absolute favorite game is for his owners to chase him around outside when he’s got a toy in his mouth; you won’t catch him easily, but you’ll both have a ton of fun.

Toby will eat his two bowls of food casually throughout the day and knows he’s not supposed to grab scraps from the table, or even the floor if you start bending down to pick some up. He likes other dogs and will even tolerate those that yap or nip at him. Once you get to know Toby -- and he you -- he will never run away from you or your home. He’s a homebody and, when the front gate is open, he’ll walk out to the front porch, but that’s about it. He knows a good thing when he sees it, and is happy to be there.

Toby has come a long way in our care, thanks to the love and attention that his fosters have given to him. He was ignored and dismissed in his previous home and has thrived in his current loving home with several college students. This bio is only half of what was written, so it's obvious how much he is loved and how much his fosters want the perfect home for him.

Toby is housebroken, although he does piddle submissively (and slightly) when new people come to the house and reach down to pet him. Best to tell your guests to come in and get settled before paying him attention. His confidence is at an all time high and he has made great progress recently. With all that Toby has to offer, this behavior is small when compared to his larger than life personality. Toby is a really great dog.