FRANKLIN
APPROXIMATE AGE: 3 YEARS
CURRENT STATUS: AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION
Meet Franklin (aka Frankie or Frank) — a 3-year-old Mastiff x German Shepherd mix weighing in at 74 pounds of goofball charm! This handsome boy is full of heart, resilience, and personality, and he’s ready to find his forever home.
Franklin’s journey hasn’t been an easy one. For the first three years of his life, he was locked away in a room with no toys, no enrichment, no vet care, no love. He had never experienced play, love, or the joy of being part of a family. But despite his tough start, Franklin’s spirit has remained unbreakable. The moment he entered his foster home, he blossomed — learning how to be a dog for the very first time. 🥹 His first toy was a simple stuffed animal, and since then, he hasn’t stopped smiling, playing, and discovering the world around him.
Franklin is funny, playful, goofy, and curious. He loves being around people, playing with his toys, and showing off his silly personality. He’s fairly independent — he’ll happily nap near you, though he’s not a huge cuddler. His favorite way to show affection is putting his paws on your shoulders for big hugs and sloppy kisses! He also gets the zoomies every day, sprinting joyfully from the bedroom to the couch, reminding everyone how far he’s come.
He’s smart and eager to please, already knowing heel, place, sit, stay, come, and ok as his release word. He walks nicely on leash, especially with structure, and has been trained with a prong and e-collar. He’s also lightly muzzle-trained for safe, positive dog introductions.
Franklin has a high energy level and thrives on activity and engagement. He loves fetch, chewing his Nylabone or rubber bone, and licking treats from his Kong. 🍎🍦 His favorite snacks are apple slices and ice cream — simple joys he never got to experience before. He also enjoys quiet downtime on the couch or decompressing in his crate throughout the day.
He’s crate-trained and house-trained, sleeps soundly in his crate at night, and does best when crated while alone to help manage mild separation anxiety. 💤
When it comes to other dogs, Franklin could do well with calm, well-mannered companions who match his playful energy without being dominant. He’s still learning how to play and communicate, but with guidance and patience, he’s improving every day. He would also be perfectly happy as the only dog in a loving, structured home. 🏡
Because he’s large and still learning to control his enthusiasm, Franklin would do best in an adult-only home. He can get mouthy when playing and sometimes forgets that hands aren’t toys — he’s still learning!
Franklin has environmental allergies and is recovering from an ear infection, both of which are being well managed in foster care. He’ll need a family committed to giving him the proper food, supplements, and continued care to keep him feeling his best. 🩺 He can be sensitive about his ears and paws, but with gentle handling and patience, he learns to trust quickly.
He travels well in the car and loves feeling the breeze on his face — it’s one of his favorite simple pleasures. 🚗💨
Franklin’s ideal family will be one that offers:
❤️ Consistent structure, boundaries, and gentle leadership
🐕 Daily exercise, adventure, and mental stimulation
💤 A calm, stable home where he can relax and feel secure
🍎 Quality food and ongoing allergy management
💬 Time, patience, and unconditional love
After a lifetime of neglect, Franklin is finally learning what it means to be loved — and he’s making up for lost time with every tail wag and goofy grin. He’s ready for his happily ever after with a family who will celebrate his progress, continue his training, and remind him every day that he’s safe and home at last.
💌 Apply to adopt Franklin today and give this resilient, loving boy the forever home he’s been waiting for