Meet Anika!

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Anika is a total love bug with the sweetest, most gentle heart. At just 12 months old, she’s already been through more than most puppies her age, having spent her entire life in a shelter before arriving in foster care. Since coming to Barney’s, she has experienced the heartbreak of a foster placement that didn’t work out and was even returned by an adopter after just 36 hours. Despite everything she’s experienced, Anika is ready for her new home and will no doubt adjust to new routines.

Since starting her foster journey, Anika has amazed everyone with her resilience and courage. Her world has expanded so quickly, and she’s embraced every new experience with a willing spirit. She is crate-trained, house-trained, and learning her leash skills with the support of training tools. She is very manageable to walk and continues to make progress every day. She also has a sensitive stomach, but as long as her diet stays consistent, she does great.

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Anika is currently living in a small apartment and has proven herself to be a wonderfully considerate companion. She’s quiet, respectful of neighbours, does great in elevators, and has had zero accidents in her foster home.

Because of her extended time in a shelter, Anika is still building strength in her hind legs, which means she prefers shorter walks than many dogs her age and size. However, she still has plenty of puppy energy; she loves to play fetch and do zoomies in the backyard.

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Anika has now had the opportunity to meet both children and a cat. She was curious and respectful around the cat. Around children, she has been friendly and inquisitive, but like any young puppy, she should be supervised—especially around small children who may leave toys or other tempting items within reach.

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One of Anika’s biggest challenges is that she can be reactive toward other dogs while on leash. This can look intimidating at first, but it comes from excitement rather than aggression. When she is given the opportunity to appropriately meet another dog, she is incredibly friendly and often rolls over immediately in a submissive, playful manner. Her reactivity is currently best managed using an e-collar and prong collar. Her foster family would be happy to help demystify these training tools and share what has been working for her. Outside of seeing other dogs, Anika is able to walk calmly and nicely beside her handler.

Like most rescue puppies, Anika needs time. Even her current foster family didn’t see her full, snuggly, affectionate personality right away. It took about three weeks for her to fully relax, trust them, and show just how cuddly and devoted she can be. Once she lets you into her circle, she is incredibly sweet, loyal, and loving.

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If you’re looking for a dog with a huge heart and are willing to give her the time she needs to blossom, Anika just might be your perfect match. Interested in meeting Anika? Please fill out the adoption application on our website. We’d love to tell you more about this special girl. ❤️