Gio Black Labrador Retriever Bethesda, MD

The Dog That Gives Bear Hugs!

Say hello to Gio, the 78-pound black lab mix who’s perfected the art of the bear hug! At 4 years old, this sweet, cuddly boy is all about spreading the love, and he’s got plenty to give. He loves to wrap his front paws around you in a big ol' bear hug, and once he knows you're a friend, he'll waste no time crawling right into your lap. When it comes to affection, Gio is all in. He'll freeze in place the moment you start petting him, soaking up every bit of love you have to give. He is a certified love bug who’s eager to be your new best friend.

Gio isn’t just about the cuddles, though—he’s got a playful side too! He's a big fan of walks and enjoys splashing around in the water, getting more comfortable in the pool each day. With a little more practice, he’s sure to be a great swimmer in no time! Gio loves his daily walks, and his balanced energy level makes him the perfect companion for both playtime and relaxation. He’s great in the car and always up for an adventure, but he’s just as happy to chill out with his favorite humans.

Gio's not just a lover; he's also a learner. He's been excelling in his obedience classes and is mastering leash walking like a champ. He's got a ton of enthusiasm for making new friends—sometimes a little too much—but he's learning to keep his excitement in check. While he can exhibit some food guarding, he's working on it and making progress every day.

Gio currently lives with three older female dogs, and he's great at respecting their boundaries. He's a gentleman around his smaller canine companions and knows when to give them space. However, he doesn't see eye-to-eye with the male foster dog in the house, so a home with female dogs or as the only dog might be the best fit for him. He hasn't been cat-tested yet, but with the right introductions, he could potentially be feline-friendly.

Gio is crate-trained and, like any curious dog, has been known to chew on a few items when he's bored. But with plenty of toys and activities, he's easily entertained. Whoever adopts Gio will also get a few training sessions to ensure everyone is on the same page, setting him up for continued success in his forever home.

If you're looking for a big-hearted pup who loves to give and receive affection, enjoys both outdoor adventures and cozy cuddles, and is ready to be your loyal companion, Gio is your guy. He’s ready to bring his bear hugs, infectious smile, and big heart into his forever home.

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ADOPTION APPLICATION:

https://form.jotform.com/210515484620146

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Gio is currently being fostered in Texas and will be transported to his forever home by our rescue! We have transports departing each week!

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Once we have received your application, we will review and reach out to set-up an interview with one of our volunteers! If you have additional questions, please email us at SaintMuttsRescue@gmail.com.

Note: As with all of our rescues, we recommend homes with children 10 years and over to ensure the best fit for both the pets and families involved.

Check out all of our adoptable pups and learn more about our rescue on our website: www.stmuttsrescue.com