Available Dogs LUKA (24-053)

LUKA (24-053) Luka, Luka, Luka! This handsome blond boy is nearly 6 years old, healthy, full of love, and a real heart-stealer. At around 100 pounds, Luka is a big, beautiful golden retriever with the softest fur you’ll ever pet. Thanks to plenty of walks, he’s been slimming down (though we haven’t put him back on the scale just yet). While he does have some quirks to manage, Luka has the basics of everything you love about goldens; he’s sweet, affectionate, goofy, and loyal. He adores people, loves to offer you his paw, and will not so gently nudge your hand for pets. His favorite things? Stuffies, tennis balls, hugs, cuddles, and being close to his people. Luka is a true “Velcro dog”; happy to relax quietly while you work but always up for playtime when you’re able to focus on him. We have brushed his teeth and cleaned his ears without issue, but he really only tolerates, not loves, being brushed. He’s a very good boy in the house and will slide easily into your routine. He is housebroken, non-destructive, does not require a crate and has free run of the house when we leave.

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The cameras show him mostly snoozing on the cool kitchen tile floor or the ottoman (his throne), but there has been the occasional whine. He is not bothered by thunder. He loves walks and happily jumps in the car and settles quickly. Like any dog, he has chased the squirrels and bunnies in the fenced yard but has also sauntered right by them on walks. Sounds perfect?! Close, but like many, he has some quirks that will require an experienced dog home with no small children. He gives clear signals when he’s uncomfortable, such as having his paws wiped after being outside, that you need to be conscious of. We have made it into a game, which helps—but he does have limits.  Also, while Luka has lived with other dogs in the past, he is currently reactive to most dogs on walks. We have made some progress with training, but he would benefit from additional training and exposure to quell this as his forever family learns to handle him. Everything is also better with a stuffie or ball in his mouth and he will carry it the entire walk. Given where he is right now, Luka is best suited as an only dog where he can enjoy your full attention. Luka’s world has been turned upside down in the past nine months, but through it all, he’s remained loving, loyal, and full of joy. If you’re experienced, dog-savvy, and ready to open your heart to a truly special companion, Luka may just be your perfect match