CHORIZO
Male
German Shepard Mix
HISTORY:
Chorizo’s story is one of resilience and heart. Found eating out of a dumpster as a skinny 6–7 month old pup, he was taken in by a shelter in Baltimore. Despite his rough start, he greeted everyone with tail wags and a sparkle of hope in his eyes. When the shelter became overcrowded, Chorizo’s name appeared on the euthanasia list- twice. The first time, his fosters stepped up to save him, and the second time, they made him a permanent part of their family to keep him safe. Though he’s had more than his share of instability early on, Chorizo has continued to show an incredible capacity for love and trust.
MEET CHORIZO!
This handsome, ~1-2 year-old German Shepherd mix is as charming as they come. Weighing around 65 pounds, Chorizo is all heart, loyalty, and personality. He’s affectionate, people-loving, and always eager to please. His favorite things in the world? Tug of war, chasing tennis balls, and curling up for a good nap after a long walk. He’s crate-trained, housebroken, food-motivated, and knows an impressive list of commands- sit, down, paw, wait, roll over and more. When he’s tired, he even tucks himself into bed!
Chorizo has a goofy, expressive face and a contagious energy that lights up a room. His joy for life is infectious, and his people say he can make them laugh every single day with his antics. He’s incredibly smart, learns fast, and thrives with structure and routine.
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING:
Chorizo has come a long way since his early days. With the help of a professional trainer and consistent structure, he’s learned how to walk nicely on leash, respond to cues, and redirect his energy when he starts to get overstimulated. He’s currently on Fluoxetine (Prozac), which has helped his anxiety tremendously.
He’s a fast learner and loves training—it keeps his mind busy and his tail wagging. He’s done a 5-week board and train program and made great progress. That said, Chorizo does have a history of dog reactivity and aggression, which has unfortunately escalated despite his progress. He’s not a candidate for dog parks or multi-dog homes, and needs a setting where he can be the only pet. His aggression has been directed only toward other dogs—never people.
WHAT CHORIZO NEEDS:
Chorizo would thrive with:
A quiet, structured home (ideally rural or suburban)
A securely fenced yard
An experienced, confident handler familiar with reactivity or working-breed dogs
No other pets or small children
He would make an incredible companion for someone who wants a devoted, affectionate dog and who has the time and environment to help him succeed. He truly just needs space, patience, and understanding to be the best version of himself.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
Chorizo is a dog who has beaten the odds time and time again. He’s loyal, intelligent, and full of potential. He’s also a dog who’s been let down by circumstances out of his control. His current family has done absolutely everything possible for him—training, medication, structure—but they recognize that he needs more space and a calmer environment than they can provide in the city. Their greatest wish is for Chorizo to find a placement—rescue, sanctuary, or experienced adopter—where he can feel safe, secure, and loved for who he is.
If you can offer this sweet boy the second chance he deserves, or know of a program that can, please reach out. Chorizo’s family is happy to provide his medical records, behavioral notes, and transportation to a rescue or evaluation.
Chorizo is located in Baltimore, MD, and is available for transfer or intake.
Please contact Allison and Chris at (203) 400-4342 or (802) 734-2773 for more information.
Posted Nov 11, 2025
