It's early morning, because Pooh got up whining at 4, and Wilson is just laying on the deck looking around. I guess that's what dogs do? Pooh would be waking up the neighbors, full beagle style if she'd been laying on the covered deck on a cool, rainy morning...she might be full beagle even it it was 75 degrees out there. She's snuggled on the couch, buried in blankets. He doesn't mind temperature changes at all, but she is always a bit chilly and she will tell you about it if it gets to be too much. (maybe she got that from me?) Anyway, I like having a dog that can just BE. As long as he's fed and gets his ears rubbed now and then he's pretty content. If I want to throw his favorite ball for him, that's super, but if I'm busy he'll just carry it around, drop it, and jump on it happily. When I have time to sit on the floor and cuddle he will flop down on my lap and snuggle right in like he's a small dog. In the past couple weeks he's learned to lay down, though his sit seems like it could use some reinforcement now, eat meals in his crate, and just hang out politely in the house. He's also pretty good at going for walks, though he's still pretty slow because he has a lot of sniffing to do. He is NOT good at meeting new guests in our house so I sure wouldn't recommend you stop by unannounced. We're hoping some training can make Wilson a bit more open to the idea of having company...or at least not protect us from our own reflections in windows at night. I would keep your cats in inside if you live near us, he loves to play chase. Our little cat has made her princess role very clear and will not run. The big cat wasn't as wise, then went on a short hunger strike, but seems to have decided to continue living here.
Interestingly, on a walk we stopped at a construction site and realized that Wilson doesn't jump. After some serious coaxing, treats, and a bit of peeing he jumped up into the framed house with the rest of us. (We've also noticed that his jealousy can be a motivating factor in training and we're using it to our advantage when possible. If you want him to go somewhere, take Pooh there, sweet talk her, and give her snacks.) He doesn't get UP on things, which explains why we haven't had any problems with him getting on the furniture. One regular step seems to be his max, as though he hasn't noticed how tall he is. He is a great big klutz that could definitely benefit from some agility training, but he seriously doubts his abilities. I had no idea! That's what the issue is with the truck. Wilson still won't get in the truck on command. He did it once for jerky when Pooh was in there, but we couldn't repeat it yet.
So, we're learning a bit more everyday and trying to reinforce good behavior, but it sure would be easier if the little old lady that likes comfy beds would go in her crate, lay on her comfy bed, and be quiet.