Adoptable pet of the week: Suzie the gentle giant

Published June 12, 2026 at 9:15AM

Meet Suzie, a perfect companion for fans of big dogs with gentle natures.

This 7-year-old dog at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria has settled into a calm adult life — a balance of relaxation time and running around with squeaky toys in the backyard.

“She would love to go on long walks in the forest or hang out near water on a fun summer day,” an AWLA volunteer told ALXnow.

Suzie weighs 85 pounds and has a black and tan coat and expressive ears. She is ready to enjoy leisurely walks, show off her tricks or simply be a companion around the house. A sponsor has covered Suzie’s adoption fees.

Suzie can be visited during the shelter’s regular adoption hours:

Noon to 7 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

About the Author

Emily Leayman

Emily Leayman is the editor of ALXnow and contributes reporting to ARLnow and FFXnow. She was previously a field editor covering parts of Northern Virginia for Patch for more than eight years. A native of the Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania, she lives in Northern Virginia.