Assumptions have a way of sticking, and dogs often end up carrying the burden of them. Certain breeds are still judged harshly, sometimes by people who are around dogs all the time, simply because of how they look.
Anubis, a Rottweiler, became a clear reminder of how wrong those snap judgments can be. At one point, a shelter volunteer looked at him and called him a “scary devil dog,” focusing only on his appearance.
But that label had very little to do with who he actually was. In reality, Anubis was calm, loving, and nothing like the image people tried to place on him.
What he needed was not fear or suspicion. He needed patience. He needed compassion. Most of all, he needed the chance to be seen for who he truly was.
Thankfully, he found people willing to give him exactly that.
A Rottweiler Misjudged By First Impressions
When Anubis, a two-year-old black and tan Rottweiler, arrived at Miami-Dade Animal Services, he was immediately branded aggressive, dangerous, and devilish.
Having survived on the streets for an unknown period, he instinctively reacted defensively to anyone approaching.
Anubis had relied solely on himself, naturally distrusting people who had abandoned him without food, shelter, or care.
Shelter staff quickly declared him unsafe, confining him to the back of the facility.
He was never walked due to his perceived aggression and a positive heartworm test, and the isolation only worsened his anxiety, placing his life in jeopardy.
With just a day before euthanasia, Humans And Animals United (HAAU), a Florida-based nonprofit rescue, learned of his case and stepped in to save him.
“Some staff at the shelter were scared of him, and Anubis wasn’t trusting anyone,” Rosa Fond, the founder of HAAU, told The Dodo.
The team believed a kind, loving dog lay beneath his tough exterior, and they committed to revealing his true self.
Patience And Care Uncovered His Gentle Nature
Before joining a foster family, Anubis needed time to relax, regain trust, and work with a trainer. The process demanded patience and consistency, but the transformation began as soon as he received attention and care.
“It took a lot of time and understanding, and I mean a lot! But we gave him the chance that he needed,” Fond said.
Removed from the shelter environment, Anubis revealed the loving nature that had been hidden beneath fear.
The dog once considered aggressive became a joyful, affectionate companion.
“When he left the shelter, he realized he was safe. He had a huge smile and happy eyes,” Fond said.
Once placed in his foster home, Anubis met an unlikely companion who became his closest friend and “little brother.”
A small bearded dragon lizard quickly won his respect, and to everyone’s amazement, the lizard became the one in charge.
“Anubis has to ask the bearded dragon for permission to enter a room or take a toy, as funny and hard as it is to believe,” Fond said.
The duo formed a bond of mutual trust and deep affection.
Now, Anubis thrives surrounded by his human family and his reptilian friend, a gentle giant whose story demonstrates the profound difference compassion and opportunity can make.
He simply needed one chance.
“The ‘aggressive’ rottweiler is now safe and loved. The family that he’s with now has gone above and beyond to love him and guarantee him the best future,” Fond said.