Update on Bonzo

cigwyllt · 05-08-2011

It has been three weeks since my parents adopted Bonzo and in that time he has not only dug a hole in my parents hearts but climbed in and pulled the earth back over himself! He is staying - they are all head over heels in love with each other.

He is very submissive and nervous - prone to weeing when stressed by meeting new people and is an excellent guard dog when he hears unexpected noises. He may be a soft and friendly puppy but he can give the biggest rottie a run for his money when it comes to letting folk know he is around.

His previous owners told us he was not playful but it seems that he is the sort of dog that thrives on living on his own. He has a huge toy box full of soft toys - he actually chose half of them himself from the toys my parents keep for visiting children! He throws them around the house and chases them and will play fetch for ages. His favourite toy is a small soft dog which we call "Baby". If you ask him "Where's Baby?" he will search until he's found it.

He is mouthing but so gently you hardly notice - he will hold your sleeve but that is as far as it goes, it's almost more of a suck than a chew. He uses his paws a lot -before he picks up a toy he prods it with his paw and when you stop giving him attention he doesn't just nudge you, he scoops your hand with his paw and licks you. He is absolutely gorgeous.

Today he had his first off lead run. We went to the beach as it is a safely contained area and we had a wonderful time. He and Ojo met other dogs and owners respectfully and cheerfully but focussed on us. He splashed in the sea, played with the seaweed and chased and raced with Ojo. His recall was perfect. Dad and I sat in the sun for a while and then when he had had enough Bonzo came and lay down beside us. Nothing could have been better. He was perfect. I think it is safe to say that he is 100% my dad's dog now.

lange · 05-09-2011

It sounds like true love has come around! I'm glad he is fitting in perfectly. He sounds like a wonderful little guy. I;m glad his recall didn;t falter since your Dad had been worried over it. I always wonder if any of my guys could be trusted off leash but I can't chance it. unless I ever end up moving to the country I just won't try. :P

cigwyllt · 05-09-2011

Quote:

I always wonder if any of my guys could be trusted off leash but I can't chance it.

Gosh, I would find that so frustrating! For me a big part of enjoying my dogs is watching them run and play. Ojo's recall has never been that reliable but now she is older (she's 8) she is brilliant. I don't trust Manny 100% with other people but if we are alone he is perfect.

lange · 05-09-2011

A down side of being surrounded in urban life. I wont do dog parks so there's not many options left. Though I do get to see the dogs run around and play in our yard. It's a decent size, we have a lot for a yard so considering most yards (ie:garden for you!! lol) in this area it's the good life for a dog.

Quote:

Originally Posted by cigwyllt

Gosh, I would find that so frustrating! For me a big part of enjoying my dogs is watching them run and play. Ojo's recall has never been that reliable but now she is older (she's 8) she is brilliant. I don't trust Manny 100% with other people but if we are alone he is perfect.

It's funny how much better dogs behave as they age. LOL
How old is your Manny? If I had to guess I'd say Kuma would be the one giving me problems on recall out in public. But you'll often hear Akitas shouldn't be off leash in public areas. She's testing her wings quite a lot lately but I'm hoping it'll be smoother sailing as she matures. Ree warned me it would happened & I wouldn't believe it. LOL Not my Kuma!!!

cigwyllt · 05-10-2011

Manny is 4 - he is very nervous of everyone and everything and very clingy to me. If we are alone on the beach we have a fantastic time but I don't trust him not to run off and swear at other people.

Toffee is 12/13 and her recall is great so long as we spot people before she does! She is 100% affectionate and adores anyone on two legs but not everyone is happy about a large Staffie type dog wanting to weave around their legs or lean up against them for chest rub - especially if she has been swimming!

goldie · 05-10-2011

It's amazing that he's come around! So glad that it sounds like he's happy with the family. Congrats!

lange · 05-11-2011

Quote:

Originally Posted by cigwyllt

not everyone is happy about a large Staffie type dog wanting to weave around their legs or lean up against them for chest rub - especially if she has been swimming!

Especially if they are dressed well I would guess.

mandygate44 · 06-09-2011

Quote:

Originally Posted by cigwyllt

It has been three weeks since my parents adopted Bonzo and in that time he has not only dug a hole in my parents hearts but climbed in and pulled the earth back over himself! He is staying - they are all head over heels in love with each other.

He is very submissive and nervous - prone to weeing when stressed by meeting new people and is an excellent guard dog when he hears unexpected noises. He may be a soft and friendly puppy but he can give the biggest rottie a run for his money when it comes to letting folk know he is around.

His previous owners told us he was not playful but it seems that he is the sort of dog that thrives on living on his own. He has a huge toy box full of soft toys - he actually chose half of them himself from the toys my parents keep for visiting children! He throws them around the house and chases them and will play fetch for ages. His favourite toy is a small soft dog which we call "Baby". If you ask him "Where's Baby?" he will search until he's found it.

He is mouthing but so gently you hardly notice - he will hold your sleeve but that is as far as it goes, it's almost more of a suck than a chew. He uses his paws a lot -before he picks up a toy he prods it with his paw and when you stop giving him attention he doesn't just nudge you, he scoops your hand with his paw and licks you. He is absolutely gorgeous.

Today he had his first off lead run. We went to the beach as it is a safely contained area and we had a wonderful time. He and Ojo met other dogs and owners respectfully and cheerfully but focussed on us. He splashed in the sea, played with the seaweed and chased and raced with Ojo. His recall was perfect. Dad and I sat in the sun for a while and then when he had had enough Bonzo came and lay down beside us. Nothing could have been better. He was perfect. I think it is safe to say that he is 100% my dad's dog now.

Wow I am amazed my beagle does not behave like this

camilaimac · 06-14-2011

Sounds like he is happy with your family.