Hi, I’m Canyon — a tiny, fluffy adventurer-in-training with a big heart and an even bigger curiosity about the world. I may only weigh 8.5 pounds, but don’t let my size fool you — I’m on a journey of discovery, and every day is a new chapter in my “How to Be a Happy Puppy” story. Life didn’t start out so easy for me, but now that I’m an Underdog, I’m finally learning what love, comfort, and safety feel like. And let me tell you — I like it.

I’m still just a baby (under six months old) and working through a few growing-up bumps. The vet says I have some dental drama (overcrowded baby teeth and a serious overbite) that might need the help of a specialist. Plus, I’ve got a small umbilical hernia that isn’t a big deal, but it’s something to keep an eye on. Nothing that stops me from bounding around with joy — just a little extra TLC needed.

At heart, I’m a gentle soul. I’m cautious when I first meet people or encounter something new, but once I start to feel safe, I can’t hide how happy I am to be exploring and learning. I love other dogs — all dogs. Big, small, mellow, playful — if they’re kind, I’m in. I rely on my doggie foster siblings to show me how the world works, and I’ll definitely need a canine companion in my forever home to be my guide and playmate (and maybe also my emotional support animal).

My crate is my cozy hideout. I tuck myself in there with all my favorite soft toys — though I do need supervision because I have a bit of a fluff-eating habit. I’m still working on potty training (okay, I’m pretty new to the whole idea), and I’m not leash-trained yet because I’m still learning to trust people with touch. A fenced yard is a must for me right now — I’m a flight risk when I get nervous, and the big, wide world is still a bit much for me without the safety of a secure space.

I’m not into treats yet, but I am very observant and starting to respond to verbal cues. I stay close to my foster mom — always nearby, always watching — because even though I’m not ready for cuddles, I want that connection. I just need time, patience, and a quiet home where I can blossom at my own pace.

If you’re the kind of person who believes in slow beginnings, gentle encouragement, and the magic of earning a shy puppy’s trust, then I think we’re meant to meet. I’ve got a lot of love to give — I’m just waiting for someone to help me find the courage to give it.

**Obedience classes are required when adopting this puppy from Underdog Rescue. Many of our puppies have a mama who was not properly socialized before coming to Underdog Rescue. Since coming to Underdog, this puppy has been in a socialized and loving home, but that needs to be continued with its Adopters. Training classes teach puppies the ins and outs of being a pet while creating a bond with their new Adopter. Obedience classes are key to creating a relationship with your puppy while having it be a happy and successful member of society. Proof of Obedience Class registration is required for this puppy before adoptions can be finalized. If you would like some suggestions, we would be happy to send some trainers who have experience with Underdog Rescue, but a Basic Obedience class in your area should work!

Please note that some of our dogs are obtained from shelters, surrendered to our care, or released from breeders. Each animal's bio is based on our experience of the animal within our care, an educated guess based on physical characteristics, temperament and information shared. Each dog receives basic grooming when coming into rescue, but for some dogs they have not received grooming attention until recently and grooming may be required shortly after adoption. This will be at the adopter’s expense, so we encourage you to research the breed and be prepared for grooming expenses. Underdog cannot guarantee hypoallergenic or non-shedding qualities of any dogs in our rescue. Some of the animals come from situations where they are lacking experience in a home and confidence in humans. In turn, they require another companion dog and/or a fenced in yard in their forever home in order for them to feel safe. If you are interested in a particular dog whose bio states those needs and do not currently have them, please understand that your home might not be the right fit. Please use the filter on our Adoptable Dogs page to find the perfect match for your home. 

This puppy requires an application fee. This fee must be paid within 24 hours or your application will be considered void.  We will not review or contact applicants that have not completed the payment portion.  

Puppy Applications will be responded to within 5 business days, after receipt of the application fee.  Please understand that paying the fee does not guarantee you will be approved to adopt the puppy. Our goal is place puppies in homes that are suited for their individual needs. You may be willing and able to provide a great home, but if it doesn’t meet the specific needs of the puppy, we will not approve your application.

We accept applications for puppies until we have a candidate that meets all of the requirements needed for the specific puppy and they have been contacted to review the adoption process as well as agree to all of the terms to move forward.

***Be sure to check your spam/junk folder as sometimes our emails end up there***