Smudge (adoptable)

Are you interested in a 48-pound love bug who wants to hang out and travel with you? Smudge loves playing with other dogs, chewing on bones, chasing tennis balls, going on car rides, hiking, and the occasional cat sniffing, but mostly he enjoys hanging out with his family and getting lots of petting. He gets excited and sometimes forgets to honor your personal space, but you’ll forgive him because all he wants to do is love on you and be your best buddy.
He’s a big puppy at heart and is house-trained. He doesn’t mind hanging out or sleeping in his crate, but when you get home, he likes nothing more than to go for a walk or hike with you followed by a nap on the couch. He has great recall off-leash and would make a wonderful hiking or camping buddy.
In his foster home, he’s enjoyed romping around with 2 dogs, keeping careful watch of chickens and cats, and chasing ATVs. Did you say car ride? If you’re not looking, he’ll jump in any open car door thinking it’s time to go. Because of his size, activity level, and sometimes bowl-you-over when following you around, he wouldn’t be suitable in a household with young children.
Smudge came into the rescue with limp due to a broken right hip that never got medical attention. He had FHO surgery in early August and has been doing great in his recovery—the vet says Smudge has great range of motion at 6 weeks post op. Smudge walks on all fours but when running over overly exerting himself, he still picks up his right hind leg a bit, which vet says will be normal for several more months. The vet has medically released Smudge for any physical activity he wants to do, so Smudge is down for everything.