Let me introduce myself: I’m Samwise (Sam or Sammy or Silly Goose (#4233)), a one-year old Goldendoodle. I came to Golden Bond through a shelter. The shelter people were really nice, but have you ever been in a shelter? It is very scary for any dog, but especially scary for a young puppy without a lot of coping skills yet. All the barking and noises and people and kennels are a lot. Fortunately, my shelter human had good connections and was able to make contact to get me out of there. With that behind me, I am so happy to have a warm comfy home that is quiet. I’ve been enjoying long walks, consistent meals and fun new toys. My favorites are balls that make noise or light up and a chew bone. I really love humans; I will be a lap dog if you let me, but I am also fine if you prefer to have me just lay at your feet. I’m starting to show some silliness and will play run outside, bounce around the yard like a deer and run back in the house with my bone – it’s like playing catch by myself. (This makes my foster mom laugh.)
I am kind of sensitive still – loud noises or really fast movements will make me flinch, but I’m getting much braver. Speaking of brave, I might have a little trauma from other dogs at the shelter. I’m working on knowing I’m safe, and on walks I’m learning to not react if dogs bark or make eye contact with me. I like dogs but I need slow introductions so I’m sure I’m safe; once I make friends, I am completely fine. I just need to trust them first. Foster mom says I improve every day and says that I am a really smart boy. I would love to find my forever home so I can feel safe and know I will be loved forever. It would be nice to have someone home more than not, but it isn’t a deal breaker if it’s the right situation. I can be an only dog with doting humans who will let me be part of activities and teach me things. (Remember I am very smart!) I also would probably like a well-balanced canine friend to play with and learn from. I haven’t been face-to-face tested with cats, but I see them on walks and while curious I’m not trying to “get them”. I’m such a gentle soul, I don’t think I’d hurt anyone or anything. I’ve also met a bunch of kids; they were dog-savvy and let me come to them, but they were so fun, and I was not scared at all.
Foster mom says I am such a good boy and a quick learner. I will counter surf; we are working on that. I am an excellent leash walker; I just need help working on bravery when approaching other dogs. Mostly my reaction now is just becoming hyperaware and fixated, but I’m not barking. My reaction is maybe a mix of excited because I’d love to make friends, and terrified because I don’t know if they are friends. I sleep quietly through the night, I’m housetrained, and am working on cratetraining. I’m not a huge fan of the crate but I can do it. Once I’m trustworthy in the new home, I probably won’t need a crate, but I’m still a puppy so we aren’t sure if I might get into things that would hurt me.
Overall, as a 1-year old without a lot of socialization and training, foster mom says I’m doing a great job and am a wonderful boy. I really want to find a family of my very own, so if you think I might fit into your family, please hit me up. I’m accepting applicants.
