Benny is an absolutely amazing and adorable pup. He is just 6 months old and is already over 60 lbs. Being a big boy however, he is one of the most gentle, calm pups I have ever seen. His fur is gorgeous as well - very soft. He is great with everyone and is eager and willing to please. He is going to make a wonderful addition to any family.
Here is what his foster family had to say:
Benny is an energetic and curious puppy. He is affectionate and loves cuddles. He really loves being with his family members, and helping out on daily tasks, however he is wonderful at keeping himself occupied and amused with toys and naps. Benny has done well staying at home alone during the work day when necessary, and does not have accidents in the house. He welcomes you home with kisses and a wagging tail. One of Benny's "trademark moves" is sitting between our legs and staring lovingly into our eyes as if asking for human arms to wrap around him in a big bear hug. Benny enjoys physical activity, including hikes on trails, multiple daily walks and most of all the dog park. Benny has proven to be a fan favourite at our local dog park and loves meeting new puppy friends.
Benny is social and friendly with everyone he has met, including men and children. He has not behaved with any aggression. He is your typical 6 month old puppy who simply wants to play with everyone. He does not growl when you take away his food or put your hand in his mouth when he has a bone. Benny has barked when trying to get the attention of a human friend to play, but quiets down when given a positive way to seek attention instead (ie. being asked to sit). Benny has also barked at the hair dryer. He has never shown shyness with others, quite the opposite with his curiosity.
Although there are no other pets in the home, Benny has been wonderful with other animals at the dog park as well as on walks. Benny has never had any direct interaction with a cat, however during walks if they catch his attention, simple redirection takes his mind off of the possible new feline friend. Benny loves to play with dogs of all sizes and ages at the dog park, and is well behaved, without ever having an aggressive altercation with another dog.
Benny should truly be named "Shadow". He wants to be with his family members all the time, however does not show any signs of excessive barking, urinating/defecating in the house or destructive behaviour if left alone. He has barked at the hair dryer before, however it seems to be more of a startle response than a fear, because it is not consistent and does not last for the entire length that the noise is being made.
Benny loves to cuddle, play fetch, tug-of-war, run and sniff everything. He seems to have "puppy bursts" of high energy, however with attention and exercise, tires out and enjoys a nice long nap.
Benny is fully house trained. He still does not "ask" to go outside, so we have learned his cues and pay attention to when he heads towards the door. Benny can hold his bladder and bowels for an entire work day. Benny is not crate trained as he sleeps in the boot room on a dog bed. Benny initially spent nights in his crate, however he does much better (during the day and night) given a little more space. He knows sit very well. He is now learning down and come. Drop it/leave it and stay are being worked on at the moment. Benny is leash trained, and is beginning to associate his leash with "it's time to go!". Benny is also a very good walker.
Benny does not beg for food as he has never been fed from the table. He may approach us while we eat, as he is curious about the smells, however will lay down when told and when he realizes the food is not for him. When Benny has silly moments, he enjoys taking personal items that do not belong to himself, because he enjoys the chase game of "keep away". When told to "leave it", "out" or "off" he generally listens well. He does not have "escaping" tendencies, however he has never had the opportunity to escape. When excited, he will leap out of the car once the door is opened, however still has his leash on at this point. Benny sometimes needs coaxing to get into the car and stay in the backseat, however both of these are rapidly improving. Benny settles and lays down as it is becoming more routine for him.
Benny has the ability to warm the hearts of everyone he meets. He would do so well in a house, with a family who can give him lots of love, affection, attention and time. Benny would probably be thrilled to have children and fellow animal family members. Benny is an energetic and growing boy. Benny does well with stairs and hardwood/slippery floors. Benny has also learned that house plants are not food. Benny's forever parents should be patient and warm but need to be willing to keep working on obedience and skill mastering to come. Benny is a fast learner and learns to associate praise and treats with good behaviour. It will not be difficult to have him achieve a high level of training/obedience.
If you think Benny would be a good choice for your family, please submit an application for consideration.
