Graham

 

Graham came to stay with us three days before Christmas.  A certain amount of concern accompanied our decision to take Graham during this time.  We had a full house of guests and an upcoming day trip where he would be left crated for hours.  Also, on Christmas day 19 people were coming for lunch, six people ages 75-92.  How would a 2 year-old dog, described as large and energetic by shelter staff, fit into our Christmas?

Well, Christmas has come and gone, and Graham has been a perfect addition to our family.   Graham was surrendered by his owner to a shelter, yet he exhibits wonderful training and great obedience.   Graham knows “sit” and “down”, though “down” is actually “roll over on my back and wait for a belly rub.”.  He gently takes food from a hand and waits patiently for his meals.   He will come up to us for attention, but easily accepts a quick pat and leaves us alone if more is not forthcoming.

Graham does not jump on people, though he has started jumping on the couch and giving us the sad eyes as we tell him to get off.  He enters his crate easily and stays all night without even a whimper.    He gets along well with our 8 year-old golden.  Our neighbor’s 2 year-old St. Bernard now has a daily play date with Graham.   Within 5 minutes of meeting, they were simultaneously drinking out of a water bowl, heads bumping and tails wagging.

Graham did well at Christmas.  Our house was so crowded we only brought the dogs out for a short time during the party.  However, Graham easily met people and did not exhibit any inappropriate behavior.  We visited three children, ages 3-9 and he was very good.  He walked up to our test cat and sniffed the cat.  When the cat hissed, he backed off.  Graham does pester other dogs to play, so we would not recommend him to a family with a dog that does not like to play.  Smaller dogs are no problem for Graham.

Graham will be the perfect dog for the right family.  Who is the right family?  Almost anyone that is willing to give him daily exercise.  Graham has wonderful training and a gentle and quiet spirit.  However, he is still 2 and needs to burn off energy every day.  If Graham sounds like the right dog for you, please fill out an online application.