Willy

Willy is one of those once-in-a-lifetime dogs — the kind you don’t come across twice. Vets believe he is a Çatalburun mix, an exceptionally rare Turkish pointer breed known for its intelligence, sensitivity, and devotion to people. On top of that, Willy has a cleft lip and nose, giving him a look that is as uncommon as his breed. This feature is purely cosmetic and does not affect his health, eating, or drinking in any way — it simply makes him unmistakably Willy. His face tells a story, and once you look past the “unusual,” you see an incredibly gentle, soulful, and expressive dog who feels everything deeply.

Willy’s life didn’t begin kindly. He was found in a small village, tied to a short chain with nowhere to go and no one to care for him. A volunteer stepped in and changed his fate, but after being placed in a sanctuary, Willy once again came close to losing everything when funding ran out and he faced being released back onto the streets. Just in time, the rescue team we work with intervened. Willy then spent three long years in a dog hotel/sanctuary — safe, but without a real home, personal bonds, or the love he so clearly craved.

Recently, everything changed. Willy arrived in Amsterdam and is now experiencing home life for the very first time — couches, routines, soft beds, human attention, and safety. He is embracing it with his whole heart.

Since arriving in the Netherlands, Willy has received thorough dental and gum care, something that simply wasn’t accessible to him back in Turkey. His mouth has been carefully assessed and treated by professionals, and he is now comfortable and doing well. Going forward, all he needs is continued attention to his oral hygiene.

Willy is exceptionally good with people and dogs alike. He is affectionate and deeply attached to his humans, always wanting to know where you are. He loves being cuddled and petted. He is gentle, social, and emotionally tuned in, making him a joy to live with.

With other dogs, Willy truly shines. He adores canine company, greeting dogs with enthusiasm and pure happiness. He loves to play, engage, and interact, and would make an ideal play buddy for a lonely but energetic dog who’s looking for a friend to share walks, games, and daily life with. His play style is friendly and joyful, and he reads other dogs well. While he could also be happy as an only dog with enough social interaction, he would absolutely thrive in a home with another playful companion.

Willy is playful, goofy, curious, and food-motivated, which makes training enjoyable. Outdoors, the world is sometimes too exciting for treats — his nose leads the way, true to his hunting-breed roots. He can pull a little on leash from excitement, but responds well to gentle guidance.

At home, Willy already shows lovely manners. He is potty-trained, not a heavy chewer, and not an excessive barker. He does, however, have a dramatic side — he will happily “complain” when he wants attention, a potty break, or to say hello to a dog he’s spotted. It’s endearing, expressive, and very much part of his charm.

Willy is sensitive, affectionate, and wonderfully unique — inside and out. After years of waiting, he is finally discovering what it means to be loved, and he’s ready for a forever family who will treasure him for exactly who he is.

If you’re looking for a rare soul, a loyal companion, and a joyful playmate with a one-of-a-kind look and an even more special heart, Willy is ready to meet you. 🐾