Bellatrix (Bella) joined us recently and as with all pups, we like to get them settled into their forever homes as quickly as we can. Here is her foster-mum’s write-up…

“Bella is a stunning 4.5-month-old Labrador x Golden Retriever x Australian Shepherd mix, expected to grow into a large breed.

Bella is currently in foster with two Labradors and has been wonderfully friendly with them and every dog she’s met on walks. She loves to play and often jumps and mouths during playtime, so she’d do best in a home with either no other dogs or with an older, patient dog who can help teach her gentle play boundaries.

As she’s still puppy mouthing, a child-free
/older child (12+) home is recommended for now.

Bella adores people and is very affectionate — she can jump up and mouth when excited but will usually redirect to a toy when offered. Occasionally, she may mouth at jumper sleeves as she continues learning what’s appropriate to play with.

She loves her walks and does well on the lead. The world is still new to her, so she enjoys exploring and sniffing everything! Her recall is a work in progress, but she’s becoming more responsive as she bonds with her people. Bella knows basic commands like sit and wait and takes treats very gently. She shares toys and food beautifully with both people and dogs, showing no signs of resource guarding in her foster home.

Bella is crate trained — she barked a little on her first night but settled quickly and slept soundly. She can be left alone for short periods and usually settles after a few minutes. She’s also fully toilet trained and will sit by the back door and whine when she needs to go out.

She hasn’t been cat tested, but since she tends to think everything that moves is a playmate, a cat-free home is recommended. Bella travels well in the car, happy to watch the world go by or have a nap.

Bella is a sweet-natured, happy girl who would thrive in a patient, active home where she can continue to learn and explore the world around her”.

Bella has had both vaccinations, but will need to stay within a reasonable driving distance of Derby, Nottingham, Chesterfield, Burton or Stoke for her spay at an appropriate time in her season cycle.

Bella is going to be a big girl. At under 5 months, she is already a similar size to the two adult labs in her foster home!