Dexter the 11-Year-Old Terrier Mix Is Nearly Deaf, Fully Fabulous, and Still the Life of the Party

Here's What You Need To Know:

• Pet's Location: sacramento CA, 95851
• Pet's Age: 11 Years
• Pet's Size: small
• Pet's Gender: male
• Pet's Color: brindle
• Pet's Breed: Shiba Inu / Terrier / Mixed (medium coat)
• Pet's Activity Level: Slightly Active
• Pet good with dogs? yes
• Pet good with cats? no
• Pet good with kids? no

With his stunning reddish-brown brindle coat, perky ears, and a distinguished graying muzzle that proudly shows his years, Dexter is the kind of dog people can’t help but reach out to cuddle the moment they meet him.

He’s 11 years old, just 12 pounds, and still fully convinced that life is meant to be fun.

💛 Who Dexter Is

🐾 Age: ~11 years old
🐕 Breed: Terrier mix
⚖️ Weight: 12 lbs
💖 Personality: Playful, affectionate, social, joyful
👂 Hearing: Nearly deaf, but fully engaged with life
🧠 Energy: Surprisingly lively for his age

Dexter may not hear the world the way he used to, but he experiences it just as fully—through touch, movement, and connection with his people.

🎾 Still the Life of the Party

Dexter is not slowing down emotionally, even if his ears have.

He’s:

• A playful little guy who loves a good tussle
• Always up for interaction and games
• Deeply affectionate and people-focused
• The kind of dog who turns everyday moments into something fun

He doesn’t act like a dog who’s “older”—he acts like a dog who still has things to do, people to meet, and affection to soak up.

🤲 His Love Language

Dexter is extremely tactile and thrives on physical connection.

He especially loves:

• Back scratches
• Gentle touch
• Close contact with his people
• Engaging, hands-on affection

For him, touch isn’t just comfort—it’s communication.

🌿 Living with Dexter

Despite being hard of hearing, Dexter navigates the world confidently and adapts beautifully. He’s a great reminder that differently-abled dogs are often just as joyful, loving, and capable as any other.

He would do well in:

• A calm or moderately active home
• A family that enjoys affection and interaction
• A home that appreciates senior dogs with personality
• A household willing to use visual cues and gentle guidance

🩺 Medical Info

Dexter is:

• Vaccinated
• Microchipped
• Neutered
• Heartworm negative

💫 The Bottom Line

Dexter isn’t winding down—he’s still showing up every day ready to play, love, and be part of someone’s world.

He’s proof that age and hearing loss don’t dim personality.

They just make the love a little quieter—and a lot more intentional.

Rocky Kanaka