Foster Update: Toby

Hi Sarah,

I thought I would send an update on Toby.

He's doing very well and as you can see from the photos is doing well with new people. When my neighbors stop by he barks a little, but nothing terrible. I think he definitely takes his lead from me and the other dogs - he starts to bark but when he realizes that no one else cares about the new people then he is fine with them.

Now that he feels like he's part of the family, his "wild" side has come out! I have to separate him from Ember when they're inside or I wouldn't have any house left from the two of them and their crazy games. You'll notice in the photo that I have to put a snood on Ember when they play. He chases her and grabs her by the ears, which doesn't work out well for a show dog that's growing coat! He doesn't bother Brewster at all, which is kind of funny. I think that the little dog rules! He loves the cat and they actually play together a lot.

He comes immediately when called, which is nice. He still pulls on the leash when we walk, but we're working on that. He is learning self control and has to wait to be released before going in or out of his crate.


He definitely needs a home with someone who can handle a high energy adolescent. He is great with other dogs and definitely takes his cue from them, but he would have to live with the right dog since I could see him being annoying to some dogs (even Ember gets tired of him at times). I did find that he's terrifed of the car. I went to take him with me once and as soon as we got within a few feet of the car he just hit the ground in terror and tried to run back to the house. I don't want to make it scarier than it already is, so we have been using Ember (who LOVES the car) and lots of treats. I walk him over to the car with her and she jumps in and out while I click and treat him for even being close. Hopefully we'll make some progress there.

Everyone who sees him thinks he's cute. Hopefully someone will fall in love with him!