Meet Leo — The Velcro Shadow With a Trophy Collection and a Heart of Gold

At 3 years old and 25 lbs, Leo is a compact, snuggly, squeaky‑toy‑loving Frenchie who has decided his life mission is simple: be as close to his human as physically possible at all times. If you’ve ever wanted a shadow with a sense of humor, a dramatic flair, and a strong opinion about bath time, Leo is your guy.

 

♦ A Little About His Body (Because It’s Part of His Story)

Leo has had quite the medical journey, and he’s handled it like a champ.
• He’s been neutered and had surgery on his stenotic nares.
• At one point, he had some spinal pain that improved with pain meds, and he now shows no signs of discomfort. He saw a neurologist who said his spine findings are typical malformations for a Frenchie and that he has degenerative disc disease.
• He takes Dasuquin daily for joint support.
• He’s missing toes on his back left paw — this makes cold weather, long walks, and overdoing playtime uncomfortable.
• A boot was suggested, but Leo says absolutely not.
• He may limp if he plays too long, so his human will need to help him pace himself.

He’s not a fan of people touching his paws (understandable), and nail trims and baths require teamwork and emotional‑support snacks.

 

♥ Personality: A Sweetheart With a Sprinkle of Shenanigans

Leo is a Velcro dog through and through. He follows foster mom everywhere — and if he’s not right beside her, he’s probably:
• Standing on a table he shouldn’t be on
• Stealing something he shouldn’t have
• Or plotting how to open a door he absolutely should not open

He loves all people he meets and will happily hop into a stranger’s lap like he’s known them for years. He proudly struts around carrying his toys like trophies — including a rubber snake he treats like a prized possession.

He monitors the TV for suspicious animals and will alert the household if a dog appears on screen. He also checks on foster mom in the shower by gently nudging the door open, just to make sure she hasn’t drowned.

 

♣ Dog Interactions: Slow and Steady Wins the Friendship

Leo wasn’t sure about other dogs at first.
• When he met foster mom’s dog, he was nervous and sometimes reacted aggressively when the other dog got in his space.
• He also growled and went after her daughter’s dog early on.
• He never bit, and with time, redirection, and very slow introductions, he now loves both dogs, cuddles with them, and wrestles like a pro.

Because of this history, Leo will need slow, patient introductions with any new dog friends. Once he feels safe, he bonds deeply and plays joyfully — but he needs that gradual warm‑up to set him up for success.

He gives an intense little stare‑down before playtime — a “Game on” look that is both hilarious and dramatic.

 

♦ Energy Level & Play Style

Leo is low energy overall, but he LOVES:
• Playing ball (like a cat — nudging it with his nose and chasing it)
• Chewing tough toys
• Wrestling with his dog friends
• Squeaky toys
• Bones

He is a strong chewer, so only durable toys survive his enthusiasm.

After playtime, he wants nothing more than to be curled up between your legs on the couch or snuggled tight in bed.

 

◊ Home Needs & Lifestyle

Leo is looking for a home that understands his quirks and celebrates his big heart.

√ Needs someone home most of the day

He has separation anxiety and does not like being crated when his human is home. He will cry, howl, and make sure the entire neighborhood knows he disagrees with the situation. When left alone, he eventually settles, but he cannot be left loose — he will chew things he shouldn’t.

√ Crate notes

• He must be crated when unsupervised.
  • The crate must be latched at the top and bottom or he will wiggle his entire body out like a furry Houdini.
  • He hates being crated while you’re home but tolerates it better when you leave.

√ Potty training

It took almost 3 months, but he’s now reliably potty trained.
• He goes to the door to ask out.
• He knows the word “potty.”
• He expects a treat afterward — he has standards.

A new home may cause a temporary setback, but consistency will get him back on track quickly.

√ Daily care

Leo will need his tushy wiped after every poop to keep him clean and comfortable. He’s very tolerant of the routine once he knows what’s happening — and he appreciates the dignity of a quick cleanup.

√ Apartment living

He could do well in an apartment with:
• Someone home most of the day
• Minimal stairs (or someone willing to carry him)
• An elevator is fine
• Awareness that he barks at animals on TV and cries when you leave

√ Yard

A fenced yard is not required. He is great on a leash, walking right beside you and only walking when you walk.

√ Kids

He loves people, but because he’s strong when he plays and puts his paws up for attention, foster mom isn’t sure how he’d be with young kids.

√ Car rides

He loves them — but must be strapped in or he’ll try to drive from your lap.

 

♥ What Makes Leo Truly Special

Leo doesn’t just want a home — he wants his person.
He forms deep bonds, follows you from room to room, checks on you, and makes you feel chosen. He’s the perfect mix of playful and affectionate. He’ll make you laugh with his antics, then melt into you like he was made to fit there.

He’s not just a pet.
He’s a companion.
A shadow.
A cuddle buddy.
A tiny protector with a big personality.
A dog who will adore you with his whole heart.

If you’re looking for a best friend who will keep life entertaining, warm, and full of love, Leo is ready to be your little shadow.