4-year-old rescue dog, Bacon earned himself the nickname “Old Man Bacon” due to his temperamental attitutude and crabby nature. The unique-looking pooch’s story began on the streets of Tampa, Florida where he was picked up by animal control.

Bacon was adopted out and returned twice with the owners citing behavioral issues. Eventually he found himself on the euthanasia list.

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Luckily, local rescue group, Guardian Angel Dog Rescue swooped in and pulled the adorable Pekingese/Dachshund/Chihuahua/Shih-tzu mix into their care.

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Bacon’s dramatically expressive face soon caught the eye of a gal named Meg, who struggled to believe the scruffy creature was real. She set up a meet-and-greet with the rescue and told PEOPLE she “fell in love as soon as he waddled down the driveway.”

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Although his behavioral problems accompanied him into Meg’s home, she was determined to make the adoption work. She contacted a local trainer who helped Bacon adjust and feel safe.

“We worked with Sam Ivy Dog Training out of Tampa and it was literally night and day,” Meg says. “As our dog trainer said, you don’t like everyone you meet, so why should your dog (which I can relate to on a serious level).”

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In addition to his improved attitude, the smart pooch also mastered several tricks and important commands.

“Now he listens and can perform all the basic commands plus dancing, high-fiving, shaking and (my personal favorite) sitting like a meerkat. As we worked on his training, his real personality was unleashed. He is a goofy, treat-loving dog who loves to snuggle and go on walks,” says Meg.

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Meg assures that Bacon still maintains a healthy dose of “sass.” Instead of expressing it through aggression, he now lets the world know how he’s feeling through a wide range of adorable facial expressions – which Meg shares on Instagram @the baconator. His intro reads:

“Hey there young whippersnappers! I’m Old Man Bacon, but don’t you dare touch my beard! I’m a rescue Peke/Doxie/Chi, now get off my lawn!”

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The former death row dog has more than 22,000 Insta-fans and often receives comparisons to some of Hollywood’s biggest personalities.

“People love to say that he looks like different celebrities. My personal favorite comparisons are: Samuel L. Jackson, William H. Macy, Mark Hamill and Peter Dinklage,” Meg shares. “I would say the best part is how much he makes people laugh. To think a little abandoned meanie like him has made so many people smile is amazing.”

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Join Bacon’s band of loyal followers for a continuous stream of new photos!