Dog Details

Albany is a tiny Morkie with a big journey ahead of her and an even bigger heart tucked beneath her shyness. At just about 9 pounds, she’s a delicate little soul who has survived more than she lets on. Missing most of her teeth, she sports a permanently peeking tongue and needs her kibble softened, but she doesn’t let that stop her from enjoying life in her own quiet way.

Albany is very fearful of human contact and still prefers to keep her distance, often scampering away when approached. She’s cautious with men, women, children, loud noises, and new environments—pretty much anything unfamiliar. But she’s slowly learning that safety exists, and she’s beginning to show tiny glimmers of trust: a tail wag, a quick dash toward her foster to sniff a hand, then a speedy retreat. These small moments are her version of bravery, and her personality is just beginning to come out.  When she goes outside, she likes to do the back scratch boogie, but only if no one is watching because well, she is still working on that confidence.  

What truly brings Elfie comfort is the company of other dogs. She blossoms around confident, friendly pups—playing, following their lead, and learning how to be a loved pet by watching them. A companion dog is essential for her continued progress. She would also do well with calm, patient adults who understand that trust for her will come slowly, in tiny steps, over time.

This sweet girl is crate trained at night and sleeps quietly in her foster’s bedroom. During the day, she may bark a bit when crated but settles. Potty training is still a work in progress; she knows what she’s supposed to do outside but still has accidents, so diapers are helpful when she can’t be closely supervised. A fenced yard is required, as she is a flight risk and not yet comfortable on a leash.  Although she has started getting a bit better at it, she will still freeze when a car goes by so until she can master the leash, a yard will help keep her safe.  

Despite her fears, Albany has shown moments of joy—playing with toys, interacting with other dogs, exploring the yard, and even showing a little goofy side. She has great potential with the right family: one that is patient, gentle, quiet, and willing to let her set the pace. With time, love, and a confident canine friend, Albany will continue to grow into the sweet, quirky little companion she’s meant to be.

Please note that some of our dogs are obtained from shelters, surrendered to our care, or released from breeders. Each animal's bio is based on our experience of the animal within our care, an educated guess based on physical characteristics, temperament and information shared. Each dog receives basic grooming when coming into rescue, but for some dogs they have not received grooming attention until recently and grooming may be required shortly after adoption. This will be at the adopter’s expense, so we encourage you to research the breed and be prepared for grooming expenses. Underdog cannot guarantee hypoallergenic or non-shedding qualities of any dogs in our rescue. Some of the animals come from situations where they are lacking experience in a home and confidence in humans. In turn, they require another companion dog and/or a fenced in yard in their forever home in order for them to feel safe. If you are interested in a particular dog whose bio states those needs and do not currently have them, please understand that your home might not be the right fit. Please use the filter on our Adoptable Dogs page to find the perfect match for your home.