Hello, my name is BAILEY. I am about 8 months old and as you can see I am very cute! I am housetrained, and have learned all about using the doggy door. I love playing with other dogs!! Fostered by Jolee in IN.
Notes from “Mom”: Upon his arrival, all the dogs had a long enthusiastic run in the backyard last night and again this a.m. When he first arrived, he showed his teeth to my husband. He seemed afraid, not aggressive. Michael was petting him and rested his hand on Bailey’s head. A sharp “No”, and a repeat of the interaction with praise when he did not growl worked well.
I have worked with him on the food issues, feeding him from my hand and taking the dish away from him repeatedly – no issues. He now eats in mixed company and does just fine – no guarding or stealing. He sleeps quietly in a crate. He met another rescue Irish – a female he initially barked at and then followed all around. When a border collie arrived it was yet another new playmate. He does well with other dogs.
Regarding his social skills with strangers, so far he has done well. He does react somewhat fearfully to new sounds (copier, shredder) and our lawn ornaments gave him a start. He was very brave though and stood his ground. He has a deep bark for such a young man!!
He is currently trying to eat the leaves from one of my office floor plants and vacuuming the carpet for tasty treats that may have been dropped. He has a very good appetite! When not eating he rests comfortably on a blanket. I have a wall of glass window looking onto the street and he watches the world drive by.
MORE NOTES FROM "MOM":
I think this puppy has been mistreated in some way. He is good with women, although small women (the size of pre-teen?) upset him. He has not attempted to bite, but he is definitely afraid.
Bailey's family did not have a fenced yard and he spent considerable time inside and crated. He doesn’t want to come in when it’s time, he’s having such a fun experience. The dogs play tag, taking turns enticing each other to chase. They mock fight and bark and roll and expend a great deal of energy. It is very good for the pup.
He eats in the community room and there is no disagreement over food. He doesn’t seem to understand toys. He will snatch a kleenex in a heartbeat and is learning that he is tall enough to counter surf. In other words – he’s a puppy!
I have been bringing him to my office the last two days to see him in action and check his socialization. This baring of teeth started with a woman who is very very dog friendly and had brought him a squeak toy. He was fine, and then his posture became fearful (tail tucked, ears back and flat, eyes big) and he started a low growl and showing teeth. The woman and I worked through it several times, but he really persisted. She is a very small woman. I do not think I would put this puppy in a house with children. He needs some time with an experienced person who will help him work though these issues.
