115-Pound Oregon Dog Returned To Shelter Twice Has One Strange Habit Involving The Backyard Chickens
After being returned to the shelter twice, a 115-pound dog named Charlie finally found an Oregon family who embraced his gentle soul and helped him overcome his anxiety.
A Giant With a Gentle Soul
Charlie is not your average lap dog. At a staggering 115 pounds, he commands attention just by walking into a room.
But despite his intimidating size, those who know him best describe him as having the sweetest, gentlest soul.
He behaves more like a needy toddler than a giant guard dog, constantly seeking affection and closeness from his humans.
Having a dog of that size climb on top of you can be overwhelming, but his family wouldn’t have it any other way.
An Unexpected Best Friend
Charlie’s gentle nature extends far beyond his human family. He has a surprising affinity for the other animals on the property.
His best friends are actually the family’s chickens, whom he adores with a surprising tenderness.
In fact, Charlie loves them so much that he tries to let them inside the house whenever he gets the chance.
He has also proven to be an exceptional foster dad to other dogs, showing a nurturing side that melts hearts.
A Heartbreaking Past
Despite his incredible personality, Charlie’s journey to finding a forever home was filled with heartbreak.
Tragically, this sweet boy had been left at the shelter not once, but twice.
It seemed that people were either intimidated by his size or unprepared for his needs, leaving him to wait for someone who would truly understand him.
The thought of such a loving dog spending so much time in a shelter was devastating to those who finally saw his true potential.
The Search for the Perfect Protector
Meanwhile, a mother with two young girls at home was feeling nervous about leaving them alone.
She began searching for a very specific type of companion: a dog who was great with kids and cats, sweet and adorable, but who looked intimidating enough to provide a sense of security.
Her search led her to Charlie, a dog who perfectly fit her complex criteria.
She hoped he would be the gentle giant her family needed.
Love at First Sight
The moment the shelter staff brought Charlie out to meet his potential new family, everything changed.
He was immediately happy, radiating a joy that was impossible to ignore.
The family fell in love with him right then and there, knowing he was the missing piece to their puzzle.
They brought him home, and Charlie was clearly thrilled to finally have a place to belong.
Zoomies and True Colors
Upon arriving at his new home, Charlie’s excitement could not be contained.
He immediately started doing ‘zoomies’ all over the yard, running with a goofy, joyful energy that delighted his new family.
He showed them his true personality right off the bat, proving that beneath his large exterior was a playful, happy-go-lucky dog.
It was clear that he was ready to embrace his new life with open paws.
Navigating New Challenges
However, once Charlie realized that this was truly his forever home, some unexpected behaviors began to surface.
The family started to notice his reactivity, realizing that the transition was somewhat overwhelming for him.
He displayed a complex balance between being super protective, occasionally anxious, and still maintaining his happy-go-lucky nature.
His family knew they needed to help him navigate these big feelings.
Putting in the Work
Determined to give Charlie the best life possible, his family sought professional help.
They began working with a trainer who specializes in reactivity to help Charlie feel more secure and confident.
Through patience and consistent training, Charlie has been making incredible progress.
He is learning to manage his anxiety and is becoming the best version of himself.
A Forever Copilot
Today, Charlie is much more than just a pet; he is a cherished member of the family.
He has become his owner’s copilot and bestie, wanting to go everywhere she goes.
After two failed adoption attempts and a long, uncertain time in the shelter, having a solid family means everything to him.
His family wouldn’t trade him for the world, and Charlie finally knows he is home for good.
