Esme never got the memo that Frenchies are supposed to be lounging lap dogs. This girl is confused and thinks she may be part greyhound or weimaraner, so she runs and runs for hours on end. Esme spent the first two years of her life living in a puppy mill, so she’s probably still thrilled at really stretching out her legs and seeing just how fast they’ll carry her.

When she first came to FBRN she had some minor bumps, but after a round of antibiotics they’ve cleared up, and now she’s been spayed and is ready to find her forever home.

When Esme first joined her foster family, she was terrified of humans. She has made huge progress, but she is still very nervous around new people. However, she absolutely lights up at the sight of other dogs. This girl’s perfect world would include at least a couple of high-energy play buddies so she could take turns tiring them out with her endless games of chase, wrestling, and tug of war. The resident dogs in her foster home have been instrumental in not only making her feel comfortable, but also teaching her how to play with toys, and they are showing her the ropes on housebreaking.

As with any puppy mill dog, her housebreaking is still a work in progress. For two years she was forced to eliminate in the place where she slept and ate, but after a few months in her foster home, she understands how wonderful it is to have clean bedding. She now joins the pack in taking potty breaks outdoors, and her understanding of this newly learned routine is growing stronger every day. She is crate-trained and jumps right in and waits politely for her special treat when it’s her turn.

Most doctors recommend a brisk 30 minute walk every day and this little ball of energy can do that and then some. According to her foster mom, Esme means business when she’s out for a walk. It’s like she has a little drill sergeant keeping her in step marching forward.

It’s important that any potential family understand that at this point in her post puppy mill development, Esme simply prefers the company of dogs to that of humans. She is sweet and tolerates petting, and will come up and say hello often, but she is not a 'lovey-dovey need to be on the couch with you at all times' type of a dog. This may change with time as she learns that some humans are fantastic, but progress may be slow, so her family must be okay knowing that this Frenchie may never be a lap dog. Taking a basic obedience class with her is highly recommended to help her build confidence, bond with her people, and help tire her out.

Esme is looking to join an active family that includes a couple of dogs to pal around with all day long. She requires a fenced yard so she can continue to zoom around like a wild puppy. Any children in the household should be 8 years or older, because she has shown nervousness around smaller children who tend to be a bit less predictable.

She would do well waiting for her people at home as long as she could be let out for a mid-day break and a play session. The best case scenario would be a situation where someone stays home during the day or a family with alternating schedules so she’s not left alone for extended hours.

Here’s a brief word from her foster mom

“Esme is still learning what it’s like to be a real dog. She's finally realizing how nice it is to get a clean bed and regular food and even that toys can make life fun. She's realizing that she can have a lot of fun running around with other dogs in the grass. I want to find a family for her that is willing to work with her and take the time to rebuild her trust, so that one day, she'll jump on the couch and perhaps even snuggle with her new family.”

If you’re willing to work with Esme, and you already have a couple of active dogs, please apply for her. She is being fostered in Texas, and she will not be shipped.