Niko Rhodesian Ridgeback & Vizsla Mix Pittsburgh, PA

******Please note, once completing the initial screen you will be connected with the placement for a video chat. Transports run every few weeks and we will have the dog on the next available transport once approved. If you are not able to accept a dog until a specific time period, please apply at that time************

We are a volunteer run rescue and donate our time to these dogs. IF you are not serious about moving forward in our adoption process, please do not apply. If someone other than yourself is part of the decision-making process, please make sure you have spoken with them and they are on board. We really do not want to waste anyone's time if you are not serious about adopting this dog.

Niko is a 3.5-year-old, neutered male Rhodesian Ridgeback/Vizsla mix, weighing 75 pounds. Niko is in Houston, TEXAS and can transport out of state once an approved adopter is lined up.

Niko's story is different from many of our other pups - he was brought into rescue as an owner surrender when his parents' were unable to keep up with his high-energy mental and physical needs.

Niko is a sweet boy who enjoys playing with other dogs and lives with a small and mighty dog. Niko prefers the company of medium to large dogs and ignores his brother when he gets bossy or mean. Niko shows curiosity and sweet interest in other dogs when encountering them on a leash and wants to go say hi. He can pull while on the leash, but it is nothing excessive and is usually related to seeing someone/thing he'd like to go see more of.

Niko is cat friendly - he lives with a cat now but does like to bark at her when she walks by his cage. He will attempt to engage the cat in play but is usually rebuffed. Niko has several two-legged siblings (ages 8-12y) and fits in well with his brother's active lifestyle. He has a newborn sister and is very curious about her, sniffing and offering her kisses while wagging his tail. No matter the children's ages, we typically recommend a home with kids old enough to understand and respect animal behavior cues.

Niko is fully house trained and barks to alert when he needs to go outside, and is kennel trained. He's not demonstrated any signs of food aggression or resource guarding - other than barking at his brother if he gets too close while eating.

Niko likes to be moving. He is a high energy dog but he seems to adjust well to any type of environment and could live in an apartment if his new family were active enough. He would thrive in a home with kids to chase, another dog to keep him company and friends to play with, especially if that "play" included fetch. He's a gentle dog who enjoys being around his family and is most cuddly in the car, resting his head on your shoulder as you drive.

He is an outgoing, friendly and personable dog who gets along with everyone he meets - men/women, kids or strangers. He would be a good candidate for doggy day care or the park, play dates, and may enjoy joining you in your fitness goals - walking/running, hiking or going for adventures. He's a smart boy and would probably excel having a "job" - other than being your new Plus 1, of course.

***Listed BREED and AGE - We are taking our best guess & recommendations from our veterinarian on age, breed and size when fully grown. We rarely know a dog's exact age nor are we able to tell the true or full breed mix of dogs as our information is limited most of the time. ***

Interested in applying to adopt him? Fill out an adoption application at the link below!

https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/DDAR/Dog