Zoe will be eight years old next month. She’s a smart herding dog who can hunt and kill a mouse in seconds. She behaves indoors, but outside, she knows what she’s being asked/told and chooses not to respond.
This morning a ball came her way and the dog for which it was intended let her get it. I took her off leash and they chased the ball for five minutes. When she got it he was an absolute gentleman and didn’t take it from her, even though she cheated and stayed in the outfield.
When we were ready to leave she stayed behind. Knowing she hates separation from her pack I just walked home, shut the door behind me and began peeling off the layers of hat, scarf, layered jackets, boots and gloves. A few moments later I opened up the door and guess who was sitting on the mat? Zoe.
I silently let her in and we didn’t talk for several hours after that. She knew that if we had a dog house or even a crate (it’s being lent around the neighborhood for new pups) she’d be in it.
Bad dog mom? I don’t know. I knew she’d be right back, she just didn’t want to come when called. So, we’ll work on that. Perhaps she’ll have to do more than wear the jingle bell and wreath collars this year. Antlers may do the trick! Dee
Cooking with Dee 