Gertrude, lovingly known as Gertie, is a gorgeous diamond in the rough with soulful orange eyes, a tender heart, and so much love to give.

 

People have let Gertie down before, and while that has made her cautious, it has not stopped her from sharing her love with the people who earn her trust. At first, Gertie can be hesitant with new people. If you rush her, she will run. But if you give her time to explore, observe, and figure you out on her terms, get ready — because once you are in, you are in, and the kisses are coming.

 

Gertie is making steady progress with her confidence. She still has moments of fear when approached, and leash work is very much still “work,” but she is learning. Point A to Point B can sometimes involve a dramatic pancake flop, but she is beginning to realize that treats, pets, and good things usually wait at Point B. Her biggest motivator? Sliced cheese. Use it wisely.

 

She loves her two foster siblings, and they are helping her learn that the world outside the house is not so scary. She enjoys car rides as long as her dog friends are with her. Getting out of the car and facing the big wide world is still a work in progress, but Gertie will get there in her own time and in her own way.

 

True to her Dane puppy roots, Gertie is part gentle giant and part velociraptor. She is still learning that not everything belongs in her mouth and that love nibbles can pinch, but her intentions are pure. She is simply trying to show you how much she loves you — sometimes with her whole face. Gertie enjoys having her own space, but she also loves cuddles, especially when she is tired. More than anything, she wants to be near her people or her pups. Her days are filled with wrestling in the yard, zoomies that can stretch into the evening, and “alone time” that still requires keeping eyes on someone at all times.

 

If you are not looking for a Velcro dog, Gertie’s not your girl. She spends very little time in her kennel and has mostly free roam during the day. She can generally be trusted, though the occasional stolen sneaker or sock may make a surprise appearance.

 

She is kennel trained, technically — she will go in with a treat, though sometimes getting there is the real production. Gertie simply does not like being separated from her pack. Gertie is looking for someone patient, kind, and willing to meet her exactly where she is. She needs time to decompress, space to build trust, and a family who understands that progress does not have to be rushed to be beautiful.

 

If you are looking for a sweet, loving, goofy, soulful girl and you have the time and heart to help her keep blooming, Gertie might just be your girl.

 

** Gertie is being fostered in Fort Mill SC.