His official name is Catawba Mountain Ronon….but he has been unofficially named TOBY. He’s named after Toby Zachary Ziegler from the West Wing (of course!). He’s a bit scruffy like Toby and a little bit of a renegade like Toby so I think it fits.
We’re still getting used to each other. And we’ve had a few disagreements….he thinks it’s fine to use my carpet as a potty and I think he should be doing his business OUTside….but eventually I’m sure he’ll come around and see things my way. Cuz basically in that department…it’s MY way or the highway!
I’m willing to overlook a few indiscretions while he’s getting used to his new environment, but I’m praying this phase will be short! I think he’s laying his territory since I’m sure the house is still ‘scented’ like Lucky. So Toby is just trying to make it his own. Right? Maybe some of you more experienced dog owners can help me out on this.
It’s a little hard not to constantly compare him to Lucky…but they are very different. Lucky was 10 years old when he died in March so he was a pretty mellow dude the last few years. He loved to lay right beside my chair. I always had to look before I moved so I wouldn’t roll over him. Toby doesn’t feel the need to even be in the same room. He’s also just 2-1/2 years old so he’s got more puppy in him. He still has some of that toddler walk going on. You know, kind of like he’s moving faster than his body can actually control. And, of course, he’s not used to this house yet so he’s constantly running into things. If I’m walking around, he walks with me but instead of watching where’s he’s going, he watches me. So bam…right into the doorway or cabinet or furniture.
This is definitely a new adventure. One more way CHANGE has made it’s way into my life this year.
Congrats on Toby! If you do not have a dog crate-get one. They are not cruel as some people think. It is the only way to successfully train a puppy. He will be in his crate when ever you cannot keep both eyes on his every move. Go to a pet store that knows dogs as opposed to one that just sells dog food, if you know what I mean. Go online and research crate training. Toby is probably missing his litter mates and is probably a bit depressed. Give it time. Again, for the life of your floors! He MUST be within your vision to avoid accidents. If you can't be with him, in the crate he goes. Good luck with him! He will love you, I promise! Just remember, there are no bad dogs, just bad owners who don't train their dogs! Congrats again!
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