Meet Ruger, an 8-year-old, 100 pound Belgian Malinois with a heart of gold, looking for a fresh start in life. Unfortunately, Ruger was surrendered back to Freedom German Shepherd Rescue after six years due to behavioral challenges that stemmed from a lack of proper care. When he first arrived at his new foster home, it was clear he had been failed by humans—overweight and struggling to walk even a short distance. It broke my heart to see him in such a state. At Wild Child Dog Training, we've been committed to helping Ruger shed those extra pounds and build up his strength and endurance. After a month of dedicated work, we’ve seen a remarkable transformation, and I can confidently say that Ruger is ready for his own place!   Despite his past, Ruger has proven to be a sweet and eager learner. He deserves a loving adopter who can help him enjoy his senior years. Rescues are overflowing, and Ruger’s time is of the essence; he needs a place to call home to enjoy his golden years. A little about Ruger: he is indifferent towards kids, but would do better in a home with older children, gets along well with female dogs, and could potentially bond with male dogs given the right introduction. He previously lived with a cat and showed no issues, according to his previous adopter, and he seems uninterested in my birds. He is also housebroken and crate trained and is currently taking meds for his thyroid. It’s essential for Ruger’s new adopter to understand the energy needs of a Malinois. He is intelligent and thrives when given purpose and clear boundaries. Ruger does not require a fenced in yard because he walks well on a leash, has off-leash recall, loves to swim, and knows commands like sit and down. If you can offer Ruger his forever home, please reach out to your adoption coordinator. If you do not yet have an adoption coordinator, please complete an adoption application at www.freedomgermanshepherdrescue.org . Ruger is being fostered outside of Jacksonville, NC.