Winston is part of our "For the Love of Mastiffs" adoption event and his adoption fee is waived!

Meet Winston, a handsome English Mastiff with a giant heart to match his size. This sweet boy was surrendered due to his previous owner moving and has been making incredible strides in foster care. Though the transition was tough at first—Winston had not been socialized or trained in his previous home—he has blossomed into a deeply affectionate, loyal, and goofy companion. He’s currently thriving with his foster dad, learning new skills, and enjoying a stable, loving environment.

Personality

- Calm, loyal, affectionate, and playful once comfortable - Velcro personality — he loves to be close and connected with his person - Loves car rides, pup cups, belly rubs, and playing with his favorite toy. - Enjoys brain games and needs mental stimulation to stay happy - Protective of his home and alert to new visitor

Dog & Cat Friendly

Winston does well with other dogs after proper introductions. He’s respectful and gentle—even in a recent playgroup where he met over 20 dogs of all sizes (from Chihuahuas to a Great Dane). He’s also cat-tolerant, showing only curiosity when encountering cats on walks.

Training & Behavior

- Housebroken with no accidents - Crate trained and does well with free roam - Knows sit, down, recall, leave it, and wait - Walks nicely on leash and stays close off-leash - Easily redirected when excited - Can be protective of his food—should be fed in a quiet, separate space

Winston has been diagnosed with REM Sleep Startle, a condition where he can react if startled during deep sleep. This is easily managed by simply calling his name before waking him. He responds happily and is improving every day with structure and a designated sleeping area. More on Sleep Startle: https://hectorsgreyhoundrescue.org/greyhounds-as-pets/sleep-startle-and-aggression/

Winston’s Ideal Home

- Quiet, adult household - Experienced with Mastiffs or large-breed dogs - Limited visitors; slow introductions to new people - A calm, structured environment where Winston can continue to build confidence at his own pace

Winston is a special dog looking for a special home. He is loving, protective, and smart—he just needs a patient adopter who understands that big hearts sometimes need a little extra time to open up. If you're ready to meet Winston and make a lifelong connection, apply today. He’s ready to find his forever home—slowly, of course.

Winston has been seen by a Veterinary Behaviorist and she has diagnosed him with a REM sleep issue. This just means he goes into a deep sleep quickly and if startled during this sleep he has a reaction. This is also called Sleep Startle. Read more here: https://hectorsgreyhoundrescue.org/greyhounds-as-pets/sleep-startle-and-aggression/

This is easily managed. If you are walking by him when he is sleeping just say his name, he will look up and wag his tail and he is fine. Having a specified place for him to sleep will help. We are continuing to work with the behavioralist to find ways to help alleviate this issue. We've already seen improvements on this during the time he's been in our care. He rarely has this reaction anymore while sleeping but it could re-occur with all of the changes that occur during the rehoming process.

Winston’s adopter will need to agree to hire a trainer to help work him through his adjustment period. Winston is being fostered in Abilene, TX.

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