At 6–7 years old, Ivan may have joined us later in life, but he’s making up for lost time with charm and charisma. This big, pony-sized boy is a true social butterfly who quickly figured out that the people at the Ranch are pretty great—thanks to a little observation of his fellow dogs.

Ivan had a chance to stay in a foster home recently. He is back at the Ranch now during his foster mom's very busy travel schedule each October - December. Here is her experience with our big guy.


"I had the pleasure of providing a short term (3 week) foster for Ivan to see how he would do in a home environment and he passed with flying colors.

He is very respectful and does all his potty business while out on walks. He never had any accidents inside, nor in the yard. He did not chew or scratch on anything inside or outside and quickly made his “den" on the shaggy white rug by the sofa. He would either sleep there or on the cool tile by the back door. He did not want any kind of mat or bed, although two different kinds were available. He also loved to lie outside by the pool and doze off in the cool breeze. He never barked while outside and only gave the pool man and gardeners a short warning bark if they got too close.

He knows sit, lie and stay commands especially when a potential treat is involved. He is very smart and learned the rhythm of the day quickly. He knew his food was kept in the garage and as soon as it got close to meal time, he would go a lie by the garage door and look at me longingly. He gets very excited about his meals and in order to slow him down when eating, I served half of his food in a muffin tin and he seemed to enjoy that. I would leave him outside for about 20 minutes after eating to relax and then he would usually sleep for about an hour inside on the cool tile. I would also give him a vitamin ball around 11 am and he would take it very gently to his ”den” and work on it for about 30 mins. He never tried to eat that ball but all other balls/toys are fair game so I avoided giving him toys since he seems to think they are for eating.

He loves long walks and towards the end of our three weeks and as it was getting cooler outside, he could easily walk 45 minutes to and hour twice a day - uphills and down. He could sometimes be a little hesitant to go on a walk and would yawn and lie down - but once his leash was on he would pop up and enjoy walking around the neighborhood. He is very good and easy on walks, never pulls, never reacts to other dogs even if they are barking and pulling. He can be a little hesitant around people passing by but again never barks or pulls. He is equally hesitant about sprinklers and Halloween decorations so I would just stop and show him that they are not that scary and we would carry on. He loves smelling all the smells but will also just walk nicely and keep up with the pace. So many neighbors commented on how great and regal he looks and how well-behaved - many saying they would take him if they could.

I only introduced him to my daughter and her boyfriend and he was hesitant at first. He wants to make sure they are friendly but after a couple of treats he would allow them to give him a pat. I am sure with more and longer exposure he would be fine in a multi-person household especially if it is somewhat calm.

He likes his own peace and quiet to relax which makes him ideal for someone who either works from home or wants to leave the house for several hours. He has no separation anxiety but is always happy when you come home or show him attention and will turn on his side for belly rubs. He also loves being wiped down with lavender dog wipes and being brushed - he definitely loves calm and gentle attention in moderation. When he has had enough he will either simply get up and walk away or calmly mouth you with a look in his eyes the says it is time to stop. He was never aggressive or assertive and was just a gentle giant around the house. He did not go up upstairs (he may not know how to) so he slept downstairs and was as quiet as a lamb. He likes his rest and is very happy to find a cozy spot to sleep whenever I was busy.

He can also mouth gently when he wants to show affection and I usually just told him very gently no and he would stop. I do not think he does well with harshness or roughness of any
kind, he prefers calm and gentle touch and play.

Overall, I think Ivan would do wonderfully in a calm home. He loves to watch the mourning doves in my backyard, as well a bunnies on walks and never tried to chase them.

He is such a sweet and gentle giant and easy to have around."

If you are interested in meeting this dog, please fill out our online application first. Contact us via email at info@coastalK9gsr.org. The minimum adoption donation ranges from $350 to $500. This amount only partially covers the cost of veterinary care, boarding fees, and other miscellaneous expenses involved in the temporary care and adoption of our dogs and is tax deductible. Prior to placement, all dogs will be spayed or neutered, receive current vaccinations, and are usually microchipped. If not, arrangements will be made on an individual basis. Special consideration may be given to those willing to adopt older dogs or dogs with physical problems.