About this pet

Sweet 8-month old Zula is up for adoption! She's a spayed, house-trained, crate-trained, 20-pound Shepherd-Chihuahua Mix looking for a forever home. Fully up-to-date on shots and has clean bill of health as of 10/13/21. She isn't likely to grow any larger. Crate, bed, collar, harness, leash, food/water bowls and toys included in adoption fee. Her ideal owners would be individuals or families with some level of dog-owning experience. She is still in-training for basic commands, obedience, and socialization. She’s also very fit and needs space for running/playing and access to a yard or grassy area for exercise and bathroom trips. A home with very small children and/or big dogs may not be a great fit as she’s still learning to trust and feel safe in high energy environments but it’s clear from her loving personality that she’d be a great family dog once she’s settled. Zula was born in Tijuana and raised in a shelter in Oceanside. She's improving in her anxiety and defensiveness every day with immersion and positive reinforcement. When she feels safe and loved her true personality shines and she’ll either cuddle or play for hours, whatever the vibe of her environment. When we’re working at home and have music playing she’ll nap beside us (we’ve never met a puppy as capable of relaxing as she is). When we get excited and playful she perks right up and shows us how fast and energetic she can be (loves to run around). She’s also amazing on car rides, responds well to her name, and enjoys plenty of affection. Zula still needs basic social training and will require patience, though she’s a fast learner. We’ve been attending free classes in Mission Hills provided by the nonprofit Paws For Life and it has helped a lot mainly through consultation so they can tell us what to be doing with her at home to help her learn. We think it would be best to meet with anyone who’s interested in adoption in a neutral place and allow her to get acquainted and comfortable!