Niko Australian Shepherd Collegeville, PA

This wonderful red boy is just a year old and full of potential and possibly one of the smartest Aussies the foster home has ever seen. His genetic results from Cornell Vet School's Embark are very interesting: 20% Lab—don't see that. 20% border collie-- definitely see that in his focus and intensity and desire to know what you want and do it. He's amazingly quick to pick things up. 20% Aussie-- yep, to the eye, he actually looks all Aussie. And 20% Golden Retriever, and that seems to be manifested in his coat which is incredibly soft and thick and luxurious, and oh the curls!

Niko just loves to be the focus of your attention, whether it's being groomed or just cuddled or following your direction, but he also is very good about going off to sleep by himself, and he will go into a crate and be quiet in it, just say the word. He's totally reliable in the house, and gets along great with other Aussies and really any playful dog with nice manners, so he is good to go for dog parks or play dates with other energetic and smart dogs, but he would also be terrific as an only dog. He likes to chase balls but then goes and lays down on the hill with them and waits for another dog to come get them-- so he's clear on the concept but playing by his own silly rules. Niko has all the energy you want if you're a runner or a hiker, but he also has a top notch off button.

One trait with Niko that requires understanding is his tendency to grumble at other dogs over bad manners: crowding him at his food dish, stepping on him, and so on. The same kinds of things you'd likely complain about-- but there is never any follow up. It sounds intimidating but he doesn't attack or in any way move toward the other dog or initiate any funny business. In fact, if he's attacked he is quick to back off and try to get out of the scrap, which is important since some dogs that are very sensitive or hair trigger or anxious might attack him, mistaking his trash talk for the real deal. All it takes is a sharp word from his person and he stops grumbling immediately.

Niko is fostered in Collegeville, PA.

To apply for Niko, please visit www.ns4ar.org