Nina Simone German Shepherd Dog Chicago, IL

My name is Nina. I am a petite (about 50 lbs) bi-colored German Shepherd with giant ears. I’m about two years old. Here is my story:

I used to live with THREE cats, and people who loved me. I was brought to Chicago Animal Care and Control because my family could not keep me. They tried to take care of me, which included having surgery on my front leg to remove it when I got a bad infection. So, I’m a “tri-pawed” dog. I do REALLY WELL on three legs, though. I have lots of energy, and run up and down carpeted stairs like a gazelle. I do well on painted wood stairs, too. Polished floors are a little slippery—but I’m a good sport about the occasional slide out.

I take walks with my foster dad and foster GSD big sister. My gait is a little bouncy, but I’m learning how to walk on a leash. If I get tired, I just rest in the grass for a few minutes, while people admire me. I am VERY cute. I also know how to sit and if you ask me to “settle down” I will lie down nicely. I love to play. I’m basically a puppy who is housebroken.

When I am crated at night, I curl up quite comfortably. During the day, I am not as happy to be in my crate, since that usually happens if both my foster parents are away….which brings me to the MOST important thing I’m hoping for in my new family.

I want to be with my person. I want to be with my person ALL THE TIME. I want to be near him or her while s/he washes dishes, or is in the garden, or even when s/he takes a shower. I can be quiet while my foster dad is working at his desk. I am a VERY loving and loyal dog. I already know how to alert my foster family to people who are coming to their door. I sound VERY impressive.

When my person wants me to pay attention—BOY do I ever pay attention. I will bring my stuffed squeaky toy, when asked, for a game of tug, or a game of chase. I will toss my other squeaky toy in his direction to show how generous I am.
I do not guard my food dish, or my water, but I am a little bit jealous if another dog wants more attention than I am getting. (Also, when my foster sister tells me to “back off”, I do not always understand, and she gets annoyed.) When it is my turn to be petted, I will gladly roll over for any belly rubs that may be available. I love to snuggle, and I believe I have mentioned that I LOVE to play.

Some things I need to work on are:
Not being such an enthusiastic barker or pulling on my leash, when I meet new people or dogs.
Although I take treats gently from an open hand, I need to work on not using my mouth when I want my person to pay attention to me.
When I am excited, I need to remember not to jump.

My foster parents think I would be good as an only dog, or with a young dog that likes energetic play. I would not be a good match for a senior dog, or in a home with little kids or people who might hurt themselves if they tripped over me. Here’s what I’m best at: Giving LOVE.
If you have time to give me both affection and patient training, I hope you will be the next chapter in my story.
Sincerely,
Nina