Warrior

More than anything in the world I’d like to have a family again. My first family lived in Puerto Rico, but they couldn’t keep me any longer. So, then I came to the U.S., and to As Good as Gold. I’m 9-years-old and my name is Warrior. Foster mom says that deep down I’m a lover, not a warrior!

My first foster family with As Good as Gold worked with me on basic obedience and manners. They discovered that I prefer affection to treats when being rewarded for learning new things or demonstrating good behavior.

To me, chasing balls is preferable to fetching them. I like going for walks but require a harness as I pull a bit. I’ll confiscate things like socks and stuffed animals, but I simply like to have them in my mouth, I don’t destroy them.

I have some allergies and a bit of arthritis in my hips; medication keeps both of these under control.  Storms can make me a bit anxious, but not severely anxious. I pant, pace, and so want to be cuddled when I hear the thunder. Once someone gives me a little boost, I do fine riding in a car.

People have described me as “affectionate, lovable, trainable, and a Velcro dog.” But I have some fears and behavior issues too. I get very afraid when someone from a standing position bends over me. Maybe it’s the surprise, but when it happens, I become assertive and leap towards them and get upset. Certainly I’ve never made contact or bitten anyone. A couple of times when I saw food on a counter and wanted it badly, I snapped at the person who wanted to prevent me from getting it. Again, I didn’t make contact, just gave my warning.

I’ve co-existed peacefully with other dogs in my foster homes. I don’t seek out their company or play with them, but I haven’t been aggressive toward them at all.

I don’t really think about it, but some people feel I prefer men over women. Maybe it was because in the one family I lived with I clung to a man in the house—perhaps he allowed me to feel safe. And he told me I was a “sweet guy,” so you bet I felt comfortable with him!

If I could just find a family who would give me the time I need to adjust to a new environment, and who would be willing to manage situations that might make me worried, I could be a very welcome pet who would be sweet and happy.

Note: Young people living in the home or visiting should be at minimum high-school age.