As the title states, Theo needs a new home. Of course we'll vet the potential new owners, not just give him to anybody, etc. If you or someone you know is interested in adopting him, please reach out. Located in the general ATL area. 

About Theo: 

A 4-5 year old purebred (no papers) ACD who's medium energy, great with cats, but is high anxiety and has a (unofficial) bite history. Theo is ultimately a good boy, but we're struggling with some of his behaviors and are therefore looking to rehome him. 

He was acquired from a guy in downtown ATL who gave this backstory: His neighbor asked him to watch Theo for a few weeks while on vacation, and actually moved but never came back for him. He had Theo for about 9 months before adopting him out (and being returned) twice, then adopted him out to us in May 2025.

Regarding training: 

Theo knows basic commands (sit, lay, drop it). He's housebroken and great about signaling at the door if he needs to potty. He enjoys sitting on furniture, will get down if you tell him to, and will not jump on furniture unless invited or shown where he's allowed to be without inviting. He does beg for your food, but can mostly be trusted with your food if you walk away from it. Theo walks great on leash with just a collar, or a gentle leader, and very rarely lunges at wildlife. He does bark if someone comes to the door, but is not an excessive barker. 

Theos problem areas: 

He does have a bite history, not just the typical cattledog nip, but has not drawn blood. He is extremely protective of his people-- my husband isn't able to give me a massage with Theo in the room because Theo will "defend" me. He does not do well with new people; Visitors cannot pet him without fear of biting, people walking past cannot pet him, etc etc. He pees submissively-- if you yell at him or in his general direction he pees, if you scold him he usually pees, if you try to do his nails he pees, bites, and sometimes poops himself. He \*does not\* do well with nail trims, does not like his feet being touched, and does not like his back half being touched (though he tolerates to an extent). He does not do well with brushing and will submissively pee. It is very clear that he has been abused and neglected in the past.

Positives about Theo:

He's well trained in most areas! He will defend you! He's medium energy,  so a daily 30 minute fetch session or a long walk is ideal for him. He does like to cuddle, and is gentle with taking treats. He does not try to steal food. He is \*phenomenal\* with cats and basically just ignores them. He does not bark at random noises, is not afraid of fireworks, and adjusts to change rather well. He is not a chewer, though he does obliterate some stuffed toys after a few weeks. He's quite soft and loves a good belly rub. Theo takes pills okay, but it's best to give them with a pill pocket or wrap. He does not try to steal cat food so long as you're within earshot of him. He does not try to get into bags of cat/dog food if they're stored properly. He does well in an apartment, or house, so long as he gets his exercise. 

Medically relevant info: 

Theo is on a daily dose of fluoxetine for anxiety (costs around $20 monthly). He is allergic to chicken (hives/itching, not severe). He has had mange, and was possibly hit by a car at some point. He is up to date on all shots, neutered, and is in overall good health. Theo has never had heartworm. 

Theo would do best in an environment: 

Without children or other dogs. With a fenced in yard, or daily long walks/hikes. With a cat friend. With humans who are able to work on behavioral issues. 

We know Theo is a good boy who deserves more care and attention than we can give him, so please reach out if you're interested in giving him a loving home. He is located just outside of Atlanta, and we're willing to drive an hour or so for him to find the right home. Unfortunately our circumstances do not give us the ability to have him meet with a behaviorist, or work on further training with him, which is why we're choosing to rehome him. If we can't find the right home for him, of course we'll keep him, but... we know we aren't the right fit for him. 