Hazelnut Akita Minneapolis, MN

Hi, I'm Hazelnut, the sweetest nut on earth! Although I may have had a rough start to life, I don't let anything stand in the way of a fun day full of adventure and love. I have a carefree demeanor that demonstrates my resilience and adaptability in any situation and environment I find myself in. I'm a happy, brave, intelligent pup who loves to do most anything, but I especially love exploring the world around me on walks, car rides, or simply by resting my head by the window and hanging with my people.

My foster describes me as the perfect mix of independent and affectionate, as I have no issues keeping myself entertained while you're away but also appreciate the company of my human(s) for a good snuggle or nap. I'm a playful pup that loves toys, even though I didn't quite know what they were until coming to rescue, I now will gladly move around the house with a few of my favorite stuffed toys or long lasting chews.

My most impressive trait is how quiet I am, making me the perfect dog for a family with shared walls or an environment that needs quiet. I do great in my crate and can easily manage crate time when left alone, and will sweetly greet you when you come home without a fuss but some subtle excitement. Although I haven't typically free-roamed when alone, I'm sure I'd do great and spend my day looking out for squirrels, playing with toys or napping the time away waiting to welcome you home.

I'm a fast learner and will do most anything for a good treat, but already know sit, paw, and down, and will happily give you a paw for no other reason than to show off my cuteness. On walks I currently do best with an easy-walk harness as I adapt to leashed life. I've come a long way since coming to my foster home and am excited to show off in a meet-and-greet for you if you think I'm a good fit.

In terms of other animals, I do have a high prey-drive so cats are a no go. As for dogs, I'm a fan and want to be their friend, but haven't had extensive interactions beyond initial intros but can get a bit excited and am still learning to channel my play. I do well with on leash with dogs after slow intros and have gone on walks with other pups and done well, but off-leash interactions are a bit less consistent. I'm good with seeing other dogs out and about and I could adapt to dog friends with time and patience, especially with more mellow, submissive dogs and a dog-savvy owner but am still learning social ques and may never be the most secure in dog interactions so my people have to be ok with my lack of potential canine play-dates.

Although I came to my foster home slightly unsure, I quickly warmed up and became the social and affectionate pup I'm meant to be. My foster found my transition incredibly impressive, a testament to my confidence and trusting nature, as I also do great at the vet and with meeting new people.

I haven't spent time with children, but would likely adapt well in a home with kids over 5. I am growing out of some puppy play, if I don't get time outside, so don't want to knock over any young kids in my play interactions but have no issues being touched or moved in any way and am particularly gentle when grabbing a treat. I am still learning that clothes, especially socks and over-sized sweatshirts, aren't toys but will gladly have you pass me a toy instead.

Although my dream home would include a fenced-in yard to explore it's not necessary as long as I get regular walks. I should never be off-leash outside of fenced-in spaces due to my love to chase but will thrive with a confident handler as I'm great with redirection and with consistency and patience I'll continue to show off all my lovable traits. If you work with me I'll reward you with my loyal affection and show you how great of a dog I can be.

I'm a delightful companion for an individual or family and would likely make a great hiking or running buddy, errand assistant, or leisurely walking companion for anyone that simply loves a cute sidekick that will love anything and everything they do but will especially love you. By applying, my foster can connect with you to answer any questions to see if it might be a match!

If you are interested in this dog, fill out an application at this link to get the ball rolling - https://pethavenmn.org/adopt/adoptable-dogs/dog-adoption-application/

Adoption fee includes spay/neuter, heartworm/Lyme test, all age-appropriate vaccinations (distemper, rabies, and Bordetella), heartworm and flea/tick preventatives, and microchip implant (including registration). Adoption fees INCLUDE a mandatory sales tax of 7.525%.

Age and breed are based on veterinarian and intake professional’s recommendation and not guaranteed as a rescue animal’s history is often unknown.

Due to post-adoption services provided, we prefer to adopt within a 150-mile radius of the Twin Cities. However, we will consider up to 250 miles if the foster agrees to travel requirements and staff approval.