Rose
ROSE Looking for Forever Home....
Updated 03/2026 after a few months of training and being evaluated we have determined that Rose and Sonja would do best in separate homes.
Fawn, Female: Will be 3 in May. Spayed and up-to-date. Housebroken. Her history prior to becoming a Mastiff Rescue Dog was not a happy one. Came to us with her sister, a bonded pair, however Rose has become overprotective, which is not allowing either to discover their best lives.
She now loves to chase squirrels, lizards and butterflies. She seeks out and carries her stuffed toys around constantly. She is an inside dog,and a loving couch potato. Absolutely loves belly rubs! She walks well on a leash, but has not left Foster's yard . Rose is strong and she responds extremely well to minor adjustment (gentle tug on leash) and verbal correction. She has been over protective of her sister and has vigorously interfered with her sisters play time with the fosters other dog, making it necessary to muzzle her when other animals are present. She is a sweet loving dog with people and is going to need a dedicated person to continue working with her.
​
Rose (fawn) and Sonja (brindle) came into MRF Rescue on November 23, 2025 after horrific circumstances beyond their control. Sadly, their previous owner died. Unfortunately, they were alone with her, no food, water, confused and frightened. It is believed they were removed from the home via catch poles and immediately put into a (5) five day hold at a kennel. Both were scared and frightened beyond imagination. Rose was shutting down, basically had to be dragged at the shelter, resulting in soft tissue injuries. Vet records were found and they were well taken care medically, however their history of care, diet, and day to day activities unknown as friends or family members have not yet stepped forward.
MRF transported the girls to their fosters. Rose hesitant to enter or leave car, subdued in travel, while Sonja showed inquisitness. (From their foster) They came to us with tails tucked, reserved and frightened. Rose had a UTI. Although it is evident they were well loved, housebroken, neither seems to have leash training or socialization skills. They do know the command "sit". Every noise startles them. They do not know what a dog treat is, a toy, or how to play catch. Treats were refused initially. Gave milkbones & Rose carried it around for awhile then dropped it, didn't know what to do with it.
Sonja..... has a strong prey drive. Whether it be lizards, birds, butterflies or cars, she is going after them. She is always alert, stands at attention at any sound or movement even if blocks away. Very excitable and strong. We have found (under MRF direction) that calmly entering their room and maintaining the calmness always, speaking quietly and having them sit prior to taking them out helps tone down the "frenzie". Stop the excitement before it starts. She, at this point needs constant supervised corrections to control her urges. Her gait is beautiful... she prances like a show dog. She is a very active girl. Loves to run (but she is being kept on leash due to prey drive) and in great shape. Rose..... totally dependent on Sonja. It is felt that if the girls were separated, the affects would be devastating for Rose. She constantly keeps an eye on Sonja and wants to be near her constantly. We are trying to build her confidence by putting distance between them in the yard, but she does not respond well . No leash skills, has to be coaxed, gentle tug and release to get her attention and distance from Sonja, basically she is not having it. She is not as active, slightly overweight. If Sonja is chasing critters, she will join in. She is becoming more cognizant and alert to sounds and critters as time goes by.
Rose has a habit of running and/or hiding between your legs and staying... possibly for security. Readily shows when she wants to return to her safe room when she has had enough outside time.
Both, as stated are extremely affectionate. Want lots of belly rubs. Rose is jealous of attention given to Sonja and will push her way in between. She will "paw" you for more if you stop
No food aggression from either, you can pet them, move or take away bowls. Sonja is a chow hound and finishes way before Rose, then wants hers. Rose is a delicate eater....takes her time. if one morsel escapes she will stop and pick it up before returning her bowl.