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Copper

Belgian Shepherd Malinois (short coat) · Adult (5 years 4 months) · Male · Medium · San Diego, CA

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Notes from The Heroic Tail

Meet Copper – your smart, loyal, and oh-so-handsome best friend!

Copper is a 5-year-old Belgian Shepherd mix with brains, personality, and a heart full of love. This clever boy already knows an impressive list of commands like sit, stay, down, gentle, and even has release cues like “okay.” He’s bilingual too, responding to both English and Spanish, plus some hand signals! Copper thrives on structure and loves having a job, so he’ll shine in a home that enjoys engaging with him and continuing his training.

Like many intelligent working breeds, Copper has a bit of a playful stubborn streak he might give you a “did you really mean that?” look but a simple “What did I say?” gets him right back on track. He also understands when it’s time to relax with cues like “all done” and “enough.”

Copper is a medium-energy pup who absolutely loves his ball, tasty treats, and a good scratch (especially his favorite spot his butt!). He’s very food motivated, making training both fun and rewarding.

He does best with slow, thoughtful introductions to new people and dogs. Once he feels comfortable, his sweet and affectionate personality really shines through. Copper appreciates when new friends give him a little space at first and let him warm up at his own pace treats definitely help win him over! He has great commands like “place,” “leave it,” and “off” that help him stay calm and respectful.

Copper has successfully lived with other dogs and can do well with a canine companion when introductions are done properly and patiently. He would thrive in a home with experienced adopters who understand the value of structure, consistency, and positive reinforcement.

His ideal home would be with older kids (12+) and a family committed to continuing his training and providing mental stimulation. In return, you’ll get an incredibly smart, loyal companion who loves belly rubs, giving kisses, and being your shadow. (Fun fact: he’s even figured out how to open doors, this boy is that smart!)

About Copper

Gets along with

Kids
Yes
Dogs
Yes

Home and care

House-trained
Yes
Indoor or outdoor
Indoor Only
Needs a yard
No
Fence
Not Required
Energy
Moderate
Exercise needs
Moderate
Grooming needs
Moderate
Shedding
Moderate
How vocal
Some
With new people
Friendly
Training
Well Trained
Owner experience
Breed experience
Coat
Short

Health

Special needs
No

AffectionateCrate-trainedEager to pleasePlays fetchGood in the carGoofyIntelligentLeash-trainedObedientOlder kids onlyPlayfulPlays with toys

As listed by The Heroic Tail. Please confirm anything important with them before you adopt.

What happens next

  1. Contact The Heroic Tail using the button. AdoptNearby does not take applications.
  2. They will send you their application or ask a few questions about your home.
  3. Most organizations arrange a meet, sometimes a home visit, then a small adoption fee that usually covers spay or neuter and vaccines. That fee is paid to The Heroic Tail, never to AdoptNearby.
  4. Read the dogs care guide so you arrive prepared.
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