Champion

Champion originally came from another local rescue after having been transported to CT from the south. He started having behavior issues while he was settling into her home, and because this was her first dog, she mistakenly started training him using correction-based methods. He also went to a doggie boot camp, which only made his leash reactivity issues worse. The owner started to experience increased anxiety with Champion’s size and management around other dogs. She also changed jobs and could no longer provide Champion the attention and training he needed to thrive. She did bring him to our training class and he was a star pupil! Once we had an opening, we welcomed Champion to our Sanctuary in 2022 at 3 years old.

Champion has been thriving at our Sanctuary learning new ways of interacting in the world where he’s rewarded for all of the good decisions he makes. In fact, in December 2025, Champion earned a “Willing Participant” badge which showed he understood consent behaviors with his handlers. Champ also has an award winning nose and has been absolutely loving his scent work classes. Prior to his arrival, Champion had surgery because of a broken leg and can present with some stiffness at times. We are consulting an Orthopedic Vet, as well as physical therapy and Adaquan injections, to help alleviate his pain and muscular changes. As a big doggy with some previous injuries to a hind leg, we like to provide Champ with lots of different outlets for his mind and instincts. As a prey-driven pup, Champ re-directs to us quite easily for our walks through the woods. No matter what, Champion brings huge smiles to our staff, volunteers, and visitors of all ages! He has been making more friends with larger, goofy dogs like himself and will need multiple “dates” with any new playmate to ensure a good match. We are happy to be a part of his journey and can’t wait till his pet guardians are finally found! Champ has a lot to bring to the table, including big ol’ snuggles.