PLEASE READ HIS FULL PROFILE FOR HIS REQUIREMENTS BEFORE APPLYING

Say hello to our beautiful Olde English Bulldog Benson.

Benson is a 2-year-old boy who sadly has not had the best of starts in life and been in situations that have caused him some worry. Despite his start, he has settled really well in to kennel life and now he has settled in, Benson likes to take things at his own pace, so if you are often in a rush, then Benson is not the dog for you! He has been generally quite chilled out in his kennel, only starting to bark if the others are, and who can resist joining in!

Benson enjoys being out of his kennel exploring what the wide world has to offer. He is still unsure of those things that are unfamiliar for him, such as household items like brushes and mops, and can stop and become fixated on them so he can assess and determine whether this needs to be a worry for him. His new family will need to understand this and take time with introducing him to new things. Benson is a huge foodie and loves his treats, so this is a great motivator to help him with training.

Benson is such a loving boy, enjoys a good fuss and a groom, but as he can be initially a little unsure of new people, new introductions and interaction must be done at his pace. But once he trusts you, there’s a friend for life and here at the centre, all activities are put on hold when Benson is in the building so he can say good morning to everyone first!

Benson knows basic commands and walks well on lead, again as he loves his food, training is enjoyable with him, and for him! So ongoing training will not only benefit Benson but is a sure way to bond with him and gain his trust, and help him understand the world isn’t all that scary with his people by his side.
Sadly, Benson has not had very positive experiences with dogs before he came to us and this has caused him quite a bit of stress and worry if there are unfamiliar dogs nearby. However, he is working on this and with using his favourite treats, we have been helping Benson to stay focused on his handler with other dogs near so he knows he is safe until the worry has passed. Benson will need a strong and confident handler who is happy to continue this work in the home, but they must be prepared that Benson may never be friends with other dogs, and will prefer his own space, only able to see them at a distance. Even though Benson still needs ongoing training with certain things, it is all to make sure that he can be as comfortable and happy as he deserves.

Poor Benson has had quite a few procedures in our care, and at this point we think he keeps inventing new reasons for surgery just to be close to the vet team! Despite all the treatments he has needed, he has been so patient (cheese helped of course!), and the whole team is so proud of how far he has come.

Benson will need a patient owner who is willing and able to help him build his confidence, with experience with dogs. We are searching for an owner who particularly has experience with dogs who have needed a little extra help and support to be in the wide world. Benson would need to be the only pet in the house and could live with children over 16.

THIS ASESSMENT IS ON GOING AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE