He is "incredibly loyal to those he trusts" - but hasn't been given a chance to show it. Three-year-old Kobe ended up at the RSPCA's Solent Branch after being brought to the UK as a young puppy.
The unknown crossbreed has been added to the animal charity's 'extra-special animals' list as he has received "very little interest" since being taken in about 600 days ago. A statement reads: "Kobe was initially brought overseas as a young puppy and shows classic behaviour of a herding or guard breed dog.
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"This means that Kobe acts as if he is on high alert at all times when out, and will bark towards the unknown.
"This is mainly people and dogs, but he could act like this in any new situation. Due to this, he is one of our 'complex' dogs."
Kobe needs on-going behaviour support in the home as he is very reactive to strangers and other dogs when on a lead.
He finds it difficult to cope in busy environments, such as walking along streets and other areas commonly used by dog owners.
The statement adds: "Kobe is fully muzzle trained and he must be muzzled when out in public and for vet visits.
"New adopters must be keen to learn how to continue his muzzle training, and staff will want to see this at the shelter.
"We would insist that Kobe is walked only in a secure rented field, so that he can fully relax and enjoy his walk. This is something that can be arranged at the shelter."
Kobe can take several meetings before he feels comfortable around new people due to being undersocialised as a puppy and therefore new adopters must be able to visit the shelter frequently.
He will also need a fully secure garden with 6ft fencing, preferably in a rural area.
"Kobe has formed close bonds to a few members of staff here, and acts like a big puppy around them," the statement reads.
"He loves toys, running around with you, and cuddles on the sofa, he is highly intelligent and loves learning new games and tricks.
"Kobe is incredibly loyal to those he trusts and is so affectionate- he thinks he is a lap dog at times.
"Kobe has been at the shelter since January 2021 and he has been having ongoing behaviour support, he has been looking for his forever home for many months now with very little interest.
"He will make a fantastic, loyal companion for an experienced owner."
If you're interested in rehoming Kobe, or any other dogs at the RSPCA's Solent Branch, contact their team on 01329 667541. The animal centre is open every day, except Tuesdays, from 11am to 4pm.
Do you have a dog story to share? Email paige.freshwater@reachplc.com.
