Peteyfoozer’s Journey (because journaling’s not enough)

[peteyfoozer]

Fen is driving me to distraction. There is a bitch in heat on the ranch and he has been yipping and howling, which is causing Boone to howl, though he has no idea WHY they are howling. The vet wants $365 to neuter Fen. There’s no clinics or other place to neuter him. He needs it done as he absolutely doesn’t have the conformation to improve anyone’s gene pool. He’s got breeding up the ying yang and smarts but the worse rear I’ve seen on a dog.
I will neuter Boone as well, when he’s old enough even though he would have a lot to offer, he’s not a typical working dog so even if his OFA is excellent I won’t be breeding to anything and the thought of an accidental cowdog/LGD litter makes me cringe. Worst possible combination.

Went for a sniffari on the ranch today and Boone was incredible! He never pulled, except for one time when the dogs that used to beat up Fen approached from 2 directions. He wasn’t afraid, or aggressive, but he wanted to greet them and play. He was reluctant but he did follow me through the shop. Then we went for a walk with Fen. Boone was at the end of my leash but I was able to hold with just my fingers He stayed very close to me. He stepped in stickers a few times and stopped and allowed me to remove them. He is being the bestest boy, following me from place to place, watching over me constantly. As he learns to help me with things he is going to be the perfect companion as he’s happy to just hang out.

Most of the walk, as he explored, my leash just rested across his back

 

[peteyfoozer]

Fen wanted to lay on the couch but Boone pestered him. The biggest challenge is teaching Boone that he doesn’t get to resource guard me or the couch and to show Fen due respect. So we bought a chain and I crawled under and wrapped it around the bar to the sectional. Boone was pretty unhappy about being chained to the couch while I interacted with Fen but it was a good lesson for him to be restrained as putting him outside doesn’t teach him much. I know Fen was grateful. I think tomorrow morning I will lock Boone out back for awhile and give Fenny a new jug. He hasn’t played with one for awhile. Too many things changed when we got Boone and I want to see Fen’s joy come back.

I knocked the cover to the slicer off of the counter and Boone picked it up for me and handed it to me. Seems like it clicked for him all of a sudden. I am so pleased with him. He is the goodest boy. Heath would be happy for me. The best part is that Boone WANTS to be with me. I’m so grateful for him.

 

[peteyfoozer]

I got the legs done on the rag horse. I need to read the instructions 100 times to understand how to finish the rest.
Meanwhile Boone has been so good. He’s picked up my phone, my glasses, a scarf, the nail grinder, pretty much anything I ask him too
We went to get his antler out of the car and he jumped right in, he was ready to go!
I am really pleased with him. I can feel a bond

 

[Baymule]

An Anatolian Service Dog, who would’ve thunk it? I’m delighted with Boone as y’all travel this journey.

 

[Mini Horses]

But he may still turn up as a true LGD. @Baymule look at Mel -- latestarter's best bud and yet, when put to task has worked for Mike. But keeping the personal attachment element. Of course, most LGDs do the personal attachment with their farm people. Boone just goes the extra mile to help.

 

[peteyfoozer]

Planning to have Boone help with laundry today. He’s tall enough to actually put dirty clothes in the basket whereas Fen has to pick it up and hand it to me so I can put it in. We shall see what kind if success we have. Boone is a little slow putting things together. I’m used to the uncanny intelligence of the English Shepherd, plus I have to keep reminding myself Boone is still a baby, even though he doesn’t look 6 mo old.

 

[SageHill]

If he doesn't get it this time maybe he will the next time. Sometimes they need to think about it. At least I've seen that in the herding breeds.

 

[peteyfoozer]

@SageHill Boone has to think about it a LONG time It’s sometimes hilarious how things can escape him, like opening the door so he can go out but not figuring to let go of the door pull and put his head through the open space instead of slamming it shut again with his big front paw. Plus he hasn’t yet figured out quite how to move his suddenly enormous body so reflexes aren’t there yet.
He’s comical to watch! But he has a lot of try in him, so I think he’ll figure everything out

 

[EweAreKiddingMe!]

Wow you have a lot of work cut out for you.I have enjoyed reading this! keep em coming!

 

[peteyfoozer]

Have a vest ordered, after reading @SageHill ’s post. Should arrive before our next trip to town so I can get it fitted. It will hopefully be easier to walk as it has a handle I can hold onto. He is such a riot to live with. My last 2 LGD’s were raised outside with the goats and calves so it’s been interesting to watch him grow through stages. He’s SO different than non LGD breeds. Hope I survive the experience as, like a toddler, he makes me exhausted but I love him to pieces