25/02/2026
UPDATE: ADOPTED!!!! 🥳
KENJI
As a chow mix, Kenji is hard-wired for loyalty and protection. Being glued to the side of his person and eyeing strangers with a bit suspicion is in his DNA, so you can just imagine how hard he's worked to fit in to modern suburban life, so that someone will bring him home and love him forever like he deserves.
He's been waiting for more than 4 years.
He’s adoring, wildly affectionate, and a total goofball. At about 6-7 years old and 50ish lbs, Kenji is gorgeous, healthy, and perfect. He's passionate about playing fetch, delights in his walks and adventures, is an eager and fun co-pilot in the car, and has an excellent off-switch — once he’s had his daily outing, he’s more than happy to curl up nearby and nap like a professional. He knows sit, politely waits for food, is house trained, and walks well on a leash. He may occasionally pause mid-walk for an impromptu cuddle, maybe for a bit of reassurance, or maybe just cause he's bursting with love. He does not have separation anxiety, as he is used to waiting alone for someone to come spend time with him....not that he's al all happy about that! There's nothing he wants more than companionship.
Kenji is thoughtful, highly observant and still a bit wary of the unknown. New situations, unfamiliar men, and first meetings with other dogs can make him feel unsure at first. With slow introductions, calm handling, and a few well-timed treats, he settles nicely and builds trust. Once he does, his affection is steady and sincere — the kind that sticks.
On top of being about the most loving dog you can imagine, Kenji is a smart boy and is super excited to learn new things. Engaging him in training exercises is both fun and hugely satisfying, because he thrives on engagement, and you can see all over his face how overjoyed he is to be rewarded for getting things right.
Kenji’s lingering insecurity at times makes perfect sense when you know his story. Picked up as a stray in the southern U.S., he spent far too long in a kennel, confused about what was expected of him, before finally experiencing foster life and learning what it means to belong. Through his challenges, he has emerged as a gentle, loving, and deeply people-oriented companion — proof of how resilient and special he truly is.
Kenji will do best in a quiet, predictable home, ideally with women, and only children over 10 who are good at respecting boundaries. He has a moderate prey drive and is not cat-friendly. He's a bit selective about his dog buddies, and does best with polite, low-drama canine companions.
Kenji isn’t a project dog.
He’s a relationship dog who sometimes needs a bit of time and patience to feel safe -- but man oh man, once he does, no one will ever love you more.
Kenji is ready to go home!
Name: Kenji
Weight: ~54 Pounds
Age: Adult, shelter was unsure of age but stated "young adult"
Gender: Neutered Male
Breed: Chow mix
Colour: Goldish red
Medical (past and present) & HW Status: Treated for HW, up to date on vaccines, no known health concerns
Fixed: Yes
Good with adults: Shy at first but warms up
Good with kids: Older, calm kids, pref girls 😬
Good with dogs: Yes, with slow introductions to friendly dogs!
Good with cats: No
House trained: Mostly!
Crate trained: If he has to, Kenji can settle in his crate, though he really doesn't love it. He comes with his very own heavy-duty crate which he prefers.
Crate aggressive: No
Food aggressive: No
Leash trained: Yes
Energy level: Medium
Suitable for an apartment: No
Can be handled: Yes, by his friends! He does need a little time to get comfortable with new people.
Barker: Average
To adopt Kenji, please complete this application form: https://app.sparkie.io/application?t=61b3a2d28d2d8f002d79fd55&m=DOG_ADOPT
Look in the comments for more pics and videos: 👇
