Meet Beans, a 15 month old female German Shepherd Dog cross Labrador Retriever.
Beans came into our rescue as an unclaimed stray. From the moment she arrived, it was clear she was a big, enthusiastic youngster with a zest for life and a lot to learn.
Health and Fitness
When Beans first arrived, she was showing signs of pain around her hips, which was concerning for such a young dog.
Our physiotherapist, Poppy, assessed her and confirmed she was uncomfortable, but also noted that Beans was poorly muscled for her age, something that can significantly contribute to joint discomfort.
While Beans was spayed, a full set of X-rays was carried out. These showed very mild hip dysplasia, which is extremely common in both German Shepherd Dogs and Labrador Retrievers.
Our vet advised that building muscle was essential, as increased muscle strength would provide better joint stability and reduce discomfort.
We are pleased to say that one month on, Beans’ fitness has improved significantly, and she is no longer showing any signs of pain after exercise.
Personality and Training
Beans arrived as a big, rambunctious puppy who genuinely believes she is a small dog. She approaches life with unfiltered enthusiasm and excitement.
Since arriving with us, we have worked hard on her manners, and she has come on in leaps and bounds, particularly in learning to regulate her excitement.
Beans is still young and any new owner will need to be committed to continuing her training. She is a quick learner and does very well when given consistent boundaries and support.
Dogs and Other Animals
Beans loves other dogs, but she is still learning how to read social cues. If another dog clearly tells her they do not want to play, she respects that.
However, if a dog corrects her in a way that also seems playful, Beans sometimes misunderstands and continues trying to engage, which can be intimidating given her size. Ongoing training and guidance will really help her here.
We feel Beans may previously have been a garden dog, as many everyday situations still seem brand new and incredibly exciting to her. The positive side of this is that she improves with every interaction and learns well when supported correctly.
Beans is very much a product of her environment.
High energy environment equals bonkers Beans.
Calm environment equals calm Beans.
Because of this, we feel she would be best suited to a home with another calm, well-balanced dog to help guide and support her.
Horses: Good, though she occasionally forgets herself and play-bows, trying to get them to play.
Sheep and goats: Generally good, but will chase if they run, not out of malice but because they think it is a game.
Cats: Not yet tested. We will update once we have more information.
With continued training, Beans is very close to becoming a dog that is reliable around most animals. An experienced and committed home could shape her enthusiasm into an incredibly well-rounded family dog.
Home Requirements
Beans would be best suited to:
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A home with another calm dog
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Older children only. She has shown no aggression but forgets her size when excited. At 40 kg, she could easily knock over a small child.
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Owners who can provide at least one hour of exercise per day
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A home with experience of German Shepherd Dogs, Labrador Retrievers, or similar breeds
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Owners who are committed to continuing her training
Beans can currently be left for up to four hours, as long as she has had a walk beforehand and is left with a canine companion. She has been absolutely fine with this routine.
Rough Monthly Costs
Insurance: £44.00
Food: £60.00
Supplements: £20.00
Vet Club (vaccinations, flea and worming): £23.99
Estimated total monthly cost: £147.99.
Adoption Info
Beans is fully vaccinated, microchipped, neutered, and up to date with flea and worming treatment. She also comes with five weeks free insurance.