I am Axel, a spunky black Lab mix who is about two years old. I was rescued by a kind woman who saw me in a crowded shelter and my foster family nursed me back from being malnourished and sick. For perhaps the first time in my life, I have a completely clean bill-of-health, with a soft, sleek coat and strong body resulting from months of good food, excellent care, and exercise. My two canine-foster friends have shown me the good life, living in a calm friendly house, with a soft dog bed into which I hop-and-flop upon command. I now exuberantly romp in the yard with my two canine pals, and always take my long walks seriously. The secure 5-foot tall fence I currently have is pretty much required, though, as I am still a late-stage puppy, and can bolt out a front door if someone isn’t paying attention. Small children are not a good fit for me because of my exuberance. I have ignored cats at the vet office but I do REALLY like to chase chipmunks! I love long car rides and am house-trained. I would be happiest with someone who is home most of the time. I love resting at my foster human’s feet while they sit at a desk. I also go into my crate while my foster family eats meals, but I sleep next to them in my comfy dog bed at night. I would benefit so much from a dedicated formal dog-training class with my new owner. I have excellent recall, a strong sense of loyalty, and will come and sit in front of those who would give me loving snuggles and attention. With a dedicated training regimen, I could easily become a super-responsive, loving and loyal companion to my Forever Family. I am being fostered on the southwest side of Chicago, IL.