Atlas Australian Shepherd & Border Collie Mix Falls Church, VA

Meet Atlas!

A spirited almost three-year-old Australian Shepherd/Border Collie mix from Falls Church, VA, whose zest for life shines as brightly as his black-and-white coat. This medium-sized bundle of energy, weighing in at 48 pounds, is a dynamo of athleticism and intelligence, ready to bring his unique spark to a new loving home.

Atlas is happiest when he's running full speed in a big yard, practicing his agility skills, or engaging in some mentally stimulating training games. He’s a quick learner, already fluent in “sit,” “come,” and “wait,” and would thrive with a guardian who enjoys keeping up with his active mind and body. If you've got a secure yard and a knack for turning playtime into fun learning, Atlas will be your star pupil!

True to his herding dog lineage, Atlas has a natural drive and a lively personality that thrives in a structured, active environment. While he loves playing with his current canine brother, he sometimes shows resource-guarding tendencies, so he may do best as the solo canine star in the home. His ideal family will appreciate his need for space and understand the importance of managing his environment to set him up for success.

It’s important to know that Atlas has a history of resource-guarding behavior, including instances where he’s bitten during high-stress or overstimulating situations. Most of these episodes occurred when attempting to take food or toys from him. With an experienced and patient caregiver, Atlas can continue learning how to navigate these moments using positive reinforcement and proper management. His new family should be prepared to create a calm, structured environment and avoid triggering scenarios.

Atlas is crate-trained, house-trained, and neutered, with up-to-date vaccinations, a microchip, and a regimen that includes anxiety medication and joint supplements. While he’s a lovable goofball who wiggles his butt at warp speed when he's excited, he also requires a guardian who understands his anxieties, such as door knocks and encounters with strangers on walks. A calm household without young children is best suited for his needs.

Could Atlas be the active and loving companion you’ve been searching for?

If you're interested in providing Atlas with a loving home, please email adopt@joyfulpets.com for more information on adopting him! Please note that Atlas will remain with his current family until a suitable new home is found for him.

Also, Atlas is open to a long-distance adoption—love knows no distance when finding your perfect companion!