Jasper, STAR #2056

Jasper is a handsome, standard red-tri Australian Shepherd estimated to be 3-4 years old and weighing approximately 48 pounds. He is an athletic, intelligent dog who thrives when he is both physically active and mentally engaged.

Jasper has demonstrated great house manners in his foster home. He is fully house-trained, does not chew inappropriate items, and enjoys his toys and bones. He is comfortable being on furniture, including the couch and bed, as this is permitted in his foster home. Crate training has not been attempted, so his comfort with a crate is currently unknown.

Jasper should not be placed in a home with cats, as he does not do well around them. He has shown no issues with people and is friendly and confident with adults and children alike. In his foster home, he lives with two other dogs and, after a brief adjustment period, integrated well into the household. He is very playful with them and loves having a pack.

Jasper is a true “Velcro dog” who loves to be close to his people and follows his foster mom from room to room. He does experience mild separation anxiety and may scratch at doors or vocalize when separated from his person. He will also occasionally whine to seek attention or express discomfort when left behind.

Jasper loves his daily walks and gets very excited when it’s time to head outside. He currently enjoys a long walk in the morning and another in the evening before meals. While he was initially timid outdoors, as his confidence has grown he has begun barking and jumping toward other dogs during walks and through fencing. His fosters are actively working on leash manners and polite greetings, and his forever home should be prepared to continue this training with patience, consistency, and confidence. Jasper is strong and incredibly fast, so his handlers should be comfortable managing an athletic dog, especially if he spots wildlife such as squirrels.

He does not display food aggression and is not highly food-motivated, which can make training more challenging. Combined with a bit of stubbornness, Jasper will do best with an experienced adopter who has the time and commitment to continue his training.

Jasper has high exercise and mental stimulation needs and prefers not to be left alone for long periods. His foster family believes he would do best in an active home with adopters (and other dogs) who enjoy spending time outdoors, incorporating a dog into their daily routines, and working together to meet his exercise and training needs.

Jasper is a 4-year-old red tri male, approximately 40 lbs. He was adopted by a wonderful STAR volunteer who has passed away – so he is back with us, being cared for in a loving foster home as we get him assessed. He may be available after the holidays. His foster home is in Houston. [Was #1858]

Jasper has a potential meet/greet with a past adopter.