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I have two!
1.Kaiden (napping on my lap) is my 11 year young, American Staffordshire Terrier(best guess on age based on first ever vet visit check-up and best guess on breed since he fits the “profile” ????) . We met 10 years ago on a cul-de-sac near a highway when I was on out giving an estimate for a job. He was loose frolicking up on the hill. There were only 5 houses on the street. The homeowner stated no one on the street had a dog. After about 15 minutes he came running down to us with the biggest open mouth. He stayed near the entire time, sniffing the ground. I called 3 surrounding town animal control and no one reported him missing. With very little coaxing, he jumped into my truck. After bring him to my vet to check for a micro chip and no owner coming forward for him, I was now his human. He had now gained 2 doggie siblings, too!
2. He honestly does nothing that nothing that drives me crazy.
3. He is a perfect fit for me since I am drawn to the pittie and rottie type breeds. He is a snuggler yet independent, confident, and overall bombproof dog. (to be transparent, recently after having corneal ulcers he has developed some avoidance behaviors towards some men-). He is very adaptable and an “easy keeper”. He is part of the reason I got into dog behavior and training!
1.Titan (with yellow bandana on) is my 12 year young rescue. His age is known due to a microchip that was active until he was 5. His DNA by Embark stated 55% American Pitbull Terrier, 25% American Staffordshire Terrier and 20% Chow Chow! We met 3 years ago at the shelter I volunteer at. He came in as an emaciated, heartworm positive stray from the south. He was there for 6 months before being adopted. Once in the home, he “barked, growled and lunged” at the new owners grandparents twice. He was returned and placed in the vet corridor to be euthanized. He never showed this behavior in the shelter and in fact, he was the favorite of everyone. I immediately wrote an email to a board member giving possible explanations for his behavior and pleaded for his life, offering to adopt him myself, and help him if I could, After several hours of waiting, I was notified they would adopt him to me as a “dangerous dog” if there was a chance to help him. Our journey together began!
2. The only thing he does that drives me crazy is not going poop on a schedule! I think he enjoys the “challenge” of how long I will keep him out until he does or, how long I will stand out in the rain with him! Yes, I stood out in a light rain for just over an hour one time!!
3. He is a perfect fit since I love the rottie type breeds- which he ended up NOT being! He is a gentle and fun soul to people in his circle. He is very clear with his communication. He is very independent yet goofy at times. He has taught me so much about behavior and understanding dogs. He reminds me everyday of the reasons I pursued dog training, especially the behavior side and the difference I made in his life. He has shown me the importance of how educating people can literally save a life. I continue to learn because of him (and Kaiden), to help others! He really is a perfect fit and all around “perfect” dog. By perfect, I mean the way dogs should act and think. He is not a robot. He is a perfect reminder that behavior does not fit in a box and dogs are suppose to “dog”!
