Phoenix

My story

🐾 Meet Phoenix – Loyal, Intelligent, and Looking for the Right Shepherd-Savvy Home 🐾 Phoenix is a striking 3–4-year-old German Shepherd whose journey with us has been filled with both hope and heartbreak. She first came to us as a stray, so her past is unknown—but from day one, she showed herself to be sweet, outgoing, and remarkably well-adjusted for a dog in her situation. She handled the shelter environment with confidence, kept her kennel clean, and won over staff and volunteers with her intelligence and affectionate nature. Phoenix was adopted and thrived in her home in many ways—she was house trained, crate trained, did great at the dog park, and loved car rides. However, she began showing typical German Shepherd protective behaviors toward guests, barking and nipping when people entered her home. Out in public, she was friendly and appropriate, but at home, she was defensive of her space. She also showed some prey drive toward the resident cat (no contact, but intense interest), so she’s best suited for a home without cats. Phoenix was later adopted again, but unfortunately returned a second time. This time, her family reported that she could be controlling with other dogs, which led to scuffles with their resident dog. She was also possessive of her toys, food, and other belongings around people. While she never bit or made contact, she gave clear warning signs when she wasn’t comfortable and didn’t always take correction well in those situations. Phoenix is not a “problem dog.” She’s a German Shepherd in every sense—loyal, intelligent, confident, and protective. But those qualities require an experienced home that understands the breed and can provide clear leadership, structure, and boundaries. She will thrive with someone who is comfortable managing her instincts, setting consistent expectations, and providing her with a job or outlet for her energy. Phoenix’s Ideal Home: Experienced with German Shepherds or similar working breeds No cats The only dog in the home (or possibly a very experienced multi-dog handler who can manage introductions and dynamics) Adults or older, dog-savvy children Someone committed to continued training and structure Phoenix has so much to offer the right person—loyalty, affection, intelligence, and the kind of bond only a Shepherd can give. She’s waiting for the home that will truly understand and appreciate her for who she is. 📍 Come meet Phoenix and see if you’re the one she’s been waiting for.

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