ADOPTED

Beethoven, affectionately known to all as “Moose,” is a big, lovable guy. He was found as a stray, so we don’t know anything about his background—but here’s what we do know. He loves human companionship, walks, playing with toys and balls, and swimming, and is reliable in the house all day. He’s smart, sweet, and very healthy, though he could afford to lose at least ten pounds. That means he’s on a restricted diet (oh no!!), but despite that, he doesn’t beg for food. Of course, he can be tempted—he did swipe some garlic bread off the counter when I turned my back, but, who could blame him, it smelled so good!

He rides well in the car, staying calm and relaxed throughout a long trip to the lake in a small space. Despite his size, he LOVES to chase a ball and is pretty darn fast on his feet! He is happy to see the leash come out and does well on walks. He loves to snuggle with us and is even tolerant of being laid on. He spent last weekend around a 14-month-old child and was very sweet and careful around her.

He has picked up a few items that aren't his and dragged them around, but he doesn't chew them. He appears completely housetrained and knows basic commands. He has a stubborn streak and thinks he’s boss, but he responds well to a firm, no-nonsense approach to compliance… and he melts if you give him a hug. By the way that he flinches when you bring your hand near his face, we think that someone may have been less than kind to him in the past; and he also drops and rolls over when he thinks he’s done something wrong.

He was a mass of mats when he emerged from the shelter, but he put up with extensive grooming very patiently. He has the biggest, bushiest tail, and the more you brush it, the bigger it gets!

His two weeks in foster care have made us aware that he’s not a good partner for cats – that is, he likes them, but as somebody to chase, not as room-mates! He gets along beautifully with our female golden, and often gives her gentle kisses even though she ignores him. He’s also very good with—and very tolerant of—small dogs, even if they’re a bit huffy with him. He takes his treats with a gentle mouth.

This big guy just needs some consistency in a stable, loving home where he can receive tons of affection and guidance in a firm but gentle way.

 Update 7/27/04

Beethoven is not the same dog he was 5 weeks ago. At some point, he decided he likes his new lifestyle. He’s gone from aloof and independent to affectionate and not wanting you to be out of his sight. He’s very watchful over us, especially when we’re swimming. He won’t swim out into the deep water (unless he has to save a ball) but will stand in neck-high water and stare at us until we come in.

We took him on our vacation to the lake. His first day on the boat, he lay on the floor under everyone’s feet. By the third day, he was up front with his ears flapping in the breeze. He rides very safely and we never had to worry about him jumping out.

He also experienced a party with tons of kids. He was a big hit. The kids loved him and he loved them (all ages). We think he would love to live with a family with lots of active kids.

Although he still needs some training (he doesn’t always come when he’s called), he’s turned out to be what we call a “movie” dog. You know, when you see a golden in a movie they always seem so perfect. He’s pretty close.

He gets along great with our female golden and he loves small dogs. Once in a while he can be pushy with larger male dogs if toys are involved.

Beethoven is a beautiful, healthy, fun-loving guy who craves a family of his own. He’s been good with his diet too, hasn’t stolen any bread in weeks!
 

View Pictures Here