Margarita pup: Mai Tai

My story

Meet Mai Tai – Your Future Adventure Buddy and Loyal Companion Mai Tai is more than just a foster dog—she’s a devoted shadow, a fast learner, and a bundle of joyful energy. This spirited pup is half Belgian Malinois, a breed known for its intelligence, loyalty, and elite working-dog qualities. True to her heritage, Mai Tai is eager to please, highly trainable, and thrives on both mental and physical stimulation. Whether it’s hiking, playing fetch, running around the dog park, or simply being by your side, Mai Tai is always ready for the next adventure. She’s incredibly treat-motivated and picks up new commands quickly, making her a dream for anyone who enjoys training and bonding with their dog. Mai Tai tends to imprint on one adult as her primary person, forming a deep and loyal bond. But her love doesn’t stop there—she’ll also connect with the rest of the family and close friends, offering protection, affection, and a sense of belonging to everyone in her circle. She currently lives with two children (ages 7 and 9) and regularly plays with neighborhood kids as young as 1, 2, and 4. While she may take a little time to fully open up, once she does, her sweet and loving nature shines through—and you’ll fall head over heels, just like her foster family has. Mai Tai is also emotionally intuitive. She’ll let you know when she’s ready to rest or when she needs a little space. She’s not just a pet—she’s a partner, a protector, and a best friend in the making. If you’re looking for a loyal, intelligent, and affectionate companion who’s ready to be your sidekick through life’s adventures, Mai Tai might just be your perfect match.   Mai Tai sleeps comfortably in her crate at night and also eats her meals there. When left alone, she is crated for her safety. While she may cry briefly after being crated, she quickly settles down and relaxes. As a strong and agile Belgian Malinois mix, Mai Tai is an impressive jumper and has been able to clear the backyard fence. When she does get out, she typically heads to a familiar neighbor’s house to explore and sniff around. Remarkably, she often jumps back into the yard on her own before getting into any trouble.   Guidance for Mai Tai’s Future Adopters: We strongly encourage Mai Tai’s future adoptive family to allow her 2–3 weeks to fully settle in and reveal her true personality. During her first week and a half with us, she was noticeably different from the affectionate, playful dog she is today. It’s essential that her adopters understand and follow the 3-3-3 rule—3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to learn the routine, and 3 months to feel fully at home. Giving her this time and space is crucial for a successful transition. Without it, she may not have the opportunity to build trust and truly thrive in her new environment.   ##2214261##

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Margarita pup: Mai Tai, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.