...A 3 yr old Shitzou that 'fell' in front of me.
Some of you know my travails in adopting a dog; finding a small dog for NYC and one that I can bring to the office...and the heartbreak of finding one and being on line and being told it went to someone else.
So earlier today a friend suggested taking a walk along Riverside Drive, and we come across the North Shore adoption bus. They rarely have small dogs, and purebreds are also rare, though that wasn't a criteria for me.
So long story short, tomorrow I pick him up in the evening after he gets neutered.
He seems real sweet, comfortable w/ people, but nervous around other dogs. Physically he fine. He was put up for adoption because his landlord complained about his barking. The volunteer said that's likely because of leaving him alone too long too often (NYC professionals).
It's been 15 years since my last dog & I've thought about this long and hard for years. I believe I'm ready.
I'm so nervous about caring for him and making the adjustments. Is he all screwed up emotionally? What are his issues? Will he learn not to bark too much? Will we bond? Will he pee/ poop all over? Is he an aggressive dog? Will he bite someone? All the usual I guess.
Thoughts on adoption anyone?

 

They aren't called mans best friend for nothing. I have a Tibetian terrier, a relative of the shit zou, only a lil bigger. You'll love it. My Taylor:

 

Thanks, looks like fun grooming that little guy!

 

At 3 years of age, the dog likely is sorted out pretty well. Observe him/her and determine his habits and insecurities, if any. Try not to untrain him from his positive habits. Reinforce many times every day that he/she is the dog, and you're the owner/boss. Trained dogs are happy dogs. Enjoy.

 

Woof!

 

It all depends on one's perspective, I guess. My five adoptees all say the same thing about dog owners.

 

If I read you original post correctly, it seems like you will be taking the dog with you to work, so the barking issue should not be a big problem. I guess if you go out at night and leave the dog home, he may start barking. You may want to crate train him. I think, but an not sure, that dogs who are crate trained bark less when they are in their crates.

 

I'd like to bring him in as much as I can, but I don't want to push it, 1 or 2 days a week (I'm not an associate and have only been there 2 yrs as an employee). Thankfully the Partner I work for is a dog lover and is sympathetic.

There's many books and websites that I'm sure will help, but in the end it's the love and effort in 'parenting' that'll make the difference.

I guess some people will view this as another 'manifestation' of middle age w/o children.

 

I adopted my little Annie almost 11 years ago and I was nervous just like you bringing her home. I did cage train her for the first year and they do say they make better pets but now she rules the house.

She is my best friend.

Every day you will work through your questions and issues and I'm sure you will make a great 'daddy'. Be prepared to make a few adjustments in your schedule now because you have 'someone' else to consider.

Just love him and he will love you unconditionally in return.

 

It's rough w/ adoption - can't 'plan' when the 'right' dog comes along.

I just booked a week vacation which I really can't postpone (believe me, it's complicated) and we nhave the NE'ster coming up.