Meet Spike.

Amherst, MA · 2 years 10 months · German Shepherd Dog / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat)

Listed since Feb 23, 2026. Listing dates do not establish shelter intake or continuous availability.

First seen by Goodmorph Oct 30, 2026.

Rescue last updated: Mar 31, 2026

In the shelter’s words

Meet Spike! A spirited two-year-old German Shepherd mix currently in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, whose striking black coat and bright white chest patch frame a pair of gorgeous, intelligent eyes that seem to study the world with curiosity. Weighing about 50 pounds, this medium-sized boy is a beautiful blend of athletic energy and tenderhearted devotion. Spike is affectionate, highly intelligent, and wonderfully playful! He truly believes he is a lap dog and will gently climb into your lap like a baby, leaning in for belly rubs and soaking up every bit of attention. His favorite treasures are squeaky toys, and he lights up when it is time to chase, pounce, and proudly parade them around! He is also an enthusiastic swimmer who will happily leap into the pool no matter the weather, making him a fantastic companion for an outdoorsy guardian who enjoys running, hiking, or active weekends. When Spike first came into his current home, he was very fearful and easily startled. Sudden movements would cause him to retreat, and he often kept his distance while he tried to feel safe. Over the past year and a half, he has grown tremendously in confidence! He now seeks affection, initiates play, and eagerly comes over for cuddles. While he may still bark at strangers out of uncertainty, he recovers more quickly and looks to his people for reassurance. He is crate-trained, house-trained, neutered, and microchipped. Spike knows sit, wait, crate, out, no, and comes when called. He waits patiently for treats and responds beautifully to structure and positive reinforcement. When left alone for short periods, he relaxes in his crate and naps peacefully. Loud sirens make him uneasy and he sometimes whimpers if he sees his people cuddling another dog. With patience, reassurance, and continued confidence building, he continues to blossom. He has lived peacefully with female dogs, though he can be selective and would benefit from thoughtful introductions. Great news for potential adopters, Spike’s adoption fee has been sponsored by the family! Spike needs a patient, experienced pet parent who can provide a fenced yard, loving guidance, and steady leadership in a caring environment. In return, he offers loyalty, laughter, and the sweetest lap cuddles you can imagine! Are you ready to help this bright, devoted boy begin his next chapter? To learn more about welcoming Spike into your family, please contact adopt@joyfulpets.com! Content Notice: This pet is represented by Joyful Pets. All photos, descriptions, and behavioral summaries are proprietary and may not be republished, altered, or used by third-party platforms. Any unapproved aggregation or rewriting of this listing is strictly prohibited.

RescueGroups record ID: 22286658

What this home needs

• Still to ask the shelter

  other dogs · cats · children · housing and stairs · medical and care. These details are not documented here; unknown does not mean no.

Roster last seen: Nov 1, 2026, 6:14 AM UTC
Goodmorph last synced: Nov 1, 2026, 6:14 AM UTC
Availability confirmed by a person: Not confirmed

Shelter staff and authorized volunteers: add a dated observation

This shared profile remains available for up to 90 days after it leaves the source roster, unless removal is requested sooner. Adoptions and applications are handled by the shelter.