HERE’S PHINEAS….and it is really difficult to capture the physical activity of a black dog in a picture!  Phineas is a wonderful example of exuberance!  This 14 lb, black/charcoal with a white chest, 3 yr old, Shih Tzu Terrier is a bundle of life!  We don’t know his story, but he was found in a trash bin container when a good Samaritan found him and took him home.  He was a mess and obviously hard to see…but he made his way to our home…and hopefully to yours!

Phineas is small but he is absolutely NOT a lap dog…until you figure out his secret!  After he has been walked/hiked/exercised, Phineas would like nothing better than to be stroked/pet/loved on until he falls asleep!  To watch him mellow is a site to behold!  Otherwise, he could fetch toys for hours with you…and bring them back!  He can be a little dominant with other dogs, but he is more interested in you!  He doesn’t like being left alone (most dogs don’t) and he will let you know but he does settle down.  He might be a great fit with a medium/bigger dog who he can’t boss around!  Totally non aggressive with people or kids (0ver 8 yrs old) or most dogs.

If you like the way your room is arranged, then the best thing to do is make it “Phineas safe” because he is a very curious and likes to move things around to his liking!  Very smart and does listen and learn.  He can be an escape artist until you remind him “stay” and he listens.  Otherwise, he is off on another adventure!  Training MUST be in his future.  The positive thing is he is not only smart, he wants to please.

We can tell you that Phineas is great on walks, interested but not aggressive with other dogs — but he probably would not make friends with squirrels!!  He does his business outside for the most part, but he will need a little more time before you could call him 100% potty trained…but he is getting there.  A few walks a day will be great for him on many levels and a yard would be ideal! 

Do you need a little activity in your life?  So does Phineas and he’s ready to come home with you!