Axel von Apolda is a very handsome 3 year old Shepherd mix.  Axel started his journey to Westside not knowing what life was really about. He previously lived in a rural area where we suspect he was not exposed to many people or different situations. Our professional trainer is working with this special boy who needs an equally special owner -- one who is experienced with dogs, as well as calm and matter-of-fact versus sentimental or overly-affectionate -- one who will continue Axel's transformation, together with some complementary training that Westside will provide in his new adults-only home. Axel has come so far.  He now starts his day calmly and happily when he leaves his kennel.  His leash manners, with just a little reminder, are great and he takes in all the smells of his new life as he walks down the street.  Axel enjoys playgroups and interacts with all the dogs.  He gravitates to the calmer dogs who match his personality and even enjoys playing with them.  Those over-the-top ones, he avoids.  At our rescue facility Axel has become an affectionate boy with the staff.  He needs a little time to become comfortable with new people, so he needs someone willing to be patient with his progress.  Axel will be so grateful for a confident owner whom he can trust to expose him to new experiences in life.