Cooper

“He’s been a joy to train – he is so smart – and such a lover.” That’s what my foster mom says about me. I do love snuggling with my foster parents and often try to give them kisses. She adds that I’m “gentle and sweet.” I can tell she also thinks it’s pretty cute how I like to sit with my paws crossed, I’m just comfortable that way! She thinks I act like a person. Perhaps partly because I watch too when the TV is on at night.

I totally love people, and my foster dad has a special place in my heart. A few weeks after being with them, my foster parents put aside the baby gate to the upstairs for a minute. I took the opportunity and ran right up their tricky 1906 hardwood curvy stairs! It was great fun sniffing everywhere. Then I found foster dad and hung out with him while he worked at his desk. When visitors come over, I might give a few barks, but I quickly become my wiggly and happy self, parading around the room with my toys and nudging them for pets. Belly rubs are appreciated, and I groan with delight when they get just the right spot while rubbing my ears. I tend to get excited around children and often jump, so a home with young kids won’t be a good fit for me.

Going for walks is another passion! When my parents ask if I want to go and I see my leash — wahoo! We walk three or four times each day. My foster parents have worked with me on being a good walker. I sit nicely while they put my harness and leash on me. Through the magic of treats, they’ve reduced my sensitivity to other dogs, so I rarely bark at other dogs now. Foster dad bought me a Gentle Leader, which keeps me closer to him and attentive; I don’t try to pull very often now. I’ve also learned to sit first before crossing the street. We can “go” when I hear the “OK.”

A couple of times each day we have toy play time; tug of war is fun! I’m a 4-year-old with plenty of energy, so playtime and walks are essential — a fenced yard would be heaven! I need an active family for sure.

As to other dogs: I sometimes bark at bigger dogs but treats definitely divert my attention. I have no furry siblings in my foster home. And in my previous home and foster home, I’ve done some guarding of my food and toys. For these reasons, I’d do best as an only dog. Other things to know: Fireworks don’t concern me either. I guess some dogs get really scared. How I’d be around cats is unknown.