In spite of being a big boy, Ben was obviously the victim of some little bullies in his former home. Ben was surrendered to a local shelter along with three small dogs (two Pekes and one rat terrier) who apparently amused themselves by picking on the big, gentle guy. This didn’t make Ben mean or defensive. It made him shy and somewhat timid. He was allowed to sleep indoors, but must have spent most of his time outside in an attempt to avoid the little monsters who pestered him.

Since arriving at his foster home, Ben has begun to learn what it is like to live with other dogs who, like him, are gentle and friendly. He gets along beautifully with the other collies and is content to lie peacefully among them chewing on a toy or rawhide. He is a little hesitant to join in their play, but is gradually beginning to trust and feel at ease.

Ben is a handsome, one year old, light sable boy who stands 25 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 65 pounds. When he sits, he is the perfect “petting” height for an adult (which is very convenient because Ben loves to be petted). He walks well on a leash but is sometimes startled by strange sights and sounds. In his own yard, however, Ben loves to romp and play and particularly enjoys going on squirrel patrol, scouring the treetops for any sign of the evil little invaders. On these occasions he becomes the confident collie that he was meant to be, prancing through the flower beds with head high, perfectly tipped ears forward and big fluffy tail wagging.

Ben has been thoroughly vetted and is in good health except for a cough that has been treated and is resolving nicely with medication. It is believed that the cough was caused by some injury to his trachea.

Ben loves being in a gentle, caring environment surrounded by people and other dogs who are kind to him. He is overjoyed to see his foster mom return from work every day and though he can’t stop himself from jumping up to greet her, it is done in such a gentle way that it is impossible to reprimand him. He is hoping for a forever home with a patient, soft spoken person who will help him get used to the sights and sounds of the world. Although he is very gentle, he is still a big young dog, so he might be too much for children under the age of six. If his forever family works away from home all day, Ben would love to have another gentle dog as a companion. No mean little bully dogs need apply.

Ben is being fostered in Esko, MN.