Willow is a 5-6 yr old blue heeler, that came from a rural shelter in Ala. She had been there for a long time. We have had her for about 2 plus months, and it has taken her this long to come around. She was very fearful when we got her, and while she has always taken to people, she was terribly afraid when an arm was raised, or the broom was used for sweeping. She went thru a period of crate possessiveness also, when you went near her crate and she was in it. She was leery of being touched under the neck when you moved the collar. All point to some type of abuse verbal or physical. We have just let her sit and simmer and assimilate the goings on here at the house. She is now good with the other dogs, all of them but she does not play with them. If a dog tries to play with her, she just turns her head and goes back to the bedroom or heads for the house. Her crate is her safe place. We have worked with her to get her to come out of her shell, and she is doing way better. Walks great on a leash, almost perfect! She does get excited around people and just wiggles that butt right off!! She can play with a ball or squeaky, but if you throw too close she will think you are going to hit her. She is an independent girl and likes to explore but also needs the company of kind loving humans, and she will seek you out for petting. LOVES to be groomed. Willow is not really an active dog, she would be great for an apartment, provided she has an outlet for play, walks etc. She needs to go for more car rides, socialization. she is NOT a dog park dog. She is the kind of girl that would love to lie on the back porch soaking up the sun while you sit in your chair, go for leisurely walks, play a little ball. Not a good candidate for cats.. she can be a lizard pouncer. Likes to get up on the bed, and loves the car...Willow would do best in a home with no children or older ones, a stable household and quiet environment. She is very easy to take care of. She is a good alert dog and will let you know when someone is at the door. New situations frighten her, and while she may balk with encouragement she will rally and explore.. If you are looking for a low key homebody heeler, this is the girl for you!! Spayed, utd on shots. Willow is at the farm in Bradenton..