Eugene

Eugene (aka Genie, Genie-baby, The Gentle Giant)<br/><br/>Big boy coming in HOT! Eugene is a leggy lab mix tipping the scales at around 80 lbs. He joined us in late September 2025 and settled into his foster home within just a few short weeks. Eugene was at risk of being euthanized at a local shelter due to the stress he experienced in the kennel environment. Thanks to Hamilton’s Cani-cross team, who advocated for him alongside shelter staff, we were able to bring him into our care.<br/><br/>Once he spent a few days decompressing in his foster home, it quickly became clear that Eugene is an incredible dog with tons of potential. Like many pups, he simply struggled with the noise, chaos, and pressure of the shelter. Essentially, he was begging for a chance to get out and show who he really is. We are so grateful to have him, and even more grateful to his amazing foster parents who are helping him grow into his best self.<br/><br/>Eugene loves dogs of all sizes and adjusts his play style beautifully to suit his friends. He can be hesitant when meeting new humans, but with proper introductions—especially when treats are involved—he warms up quickly. He may bark when greeting new people, especially men, but it’s typically out of excitement. Because of his size and the fact that he sometimes forgets it, we’re looking for a home with older children or no children to ensure everyone stays safe. Eugene is crate trained and loves taking a good snooze. He isn’t overly energetic; after an adventure, you’ll usually find him rotating through every comfy spot in the house for the rest of the day.<br/><br/>Eugene’s biggest challenges are his prey drive—particularly toward squirrels—and his strong desire to greet every person he sees. His foster parents have been working diligently with him, and he’s improving, but he’ll need a family committed to continuing his training. He’s also working on his leash manners. When he first arrived, he pulled quite a bit, but with the right tools, engagement work, and guidance, he’s made excellent progress. Walks are still his most challenging time—tempting squirrels and interesting passersby make it hard for him to focus—but we’ve seen significant improvement after just a few months.<br/><br/>A message from Eugene’s foster parents:<br/><br/>“Eugene is such a good boy—loyal, sensitive, and sweet. He needs a home with people who will love him just as much as he loves them. His barking when meeting new people is just one of the quirks that makes him who he is. Eugene had zero issues settling into our home; all he wants to do is please his people. I hope he finds a family who takes him on car rides and adventures, because he will happily go anywhere with you. He truly is the definition of a gentle giant and just wants to be part of a family.”

Eugene (aka Genie, Genie-baby, The Gentle Giant)

Big boy coming in HOT! Eugene is a leggy lab mix tipping the scales at around 80 lbs. He joined us in late September 2025 and settled into his foster home within just a few short weeks. Eugene was at risk of being euthanized at a local shelter due to the stress he experienced in the kennel environment. Thanks to Hamilton’s Cani-cross team, who advocated for him alongside shelter staff, we were able to bring him into our care.

Once he spent a few days decompressing in his foster home, it quickly became clear that Eugene is an incredible dog with tons of potential. Like many pups, he simply struggled with the noise, chaos, and pressure of the shelter. Essentially, he was begging for a chance to get out and show who he really is. We are so grateful to have him, and even more grateful to his amazing foster parents who are helping him grow into his best self.

Eugene loves dogs of all sizes and adjusts his play style beautifully to suit his friends. He can

Eugene (aka Genie, Genie-baby, The Gentle Giant)

Big boy coming in HOT! Eugene is a leggy lab mix tipping the scales at around 80 lbs. He joined us in late September 2025 and settled into his foster home within just a few short weeks. Eugene was at risk of being euthanized at a local shelter due to the stress he experienced in the kennel environment. Thanks to Hamilton’s Cani-cross team, who advocated for him alongside shelter staff, we were able to bring him into our care.

Once he spent a few days decompressing in his foster home, it quickly became clear that Eugene is an incredible dog with tons of potential. Like many pups, he simply struggled with the noise, chaos, and pressure of the shelter. Essentially, he was begging for a chance to get out and show who he really is. We are so grateful to have him, and even more grateful to his amazing foster parents who are helping him grow into his best self.

Eugene loves dogs of all sizes and adjusts his play style beautifully to suit his friends. He can be hesitant when meeting new humans, but with proper introductions—especially when treats are involved—he warms up quickly. He may bark when greeting new people, especially men, but it’s typically out of excitement. Because of his size and the fact that he sometimes forgets it, we’re looking for a home with older children or no children to ensure everyone stays safe. Eugene is crate trained and l