Max 04-064 [1]

Max is a four year old neutered male. He is very dark red and has a beautiful coat!!! He came from a loving family that consisted of a mom, dad, human brother under age 5 and an infant. He was surrendered because his family couldn't give him the attention that he deserved and Max doesn't understand his size in the presence of their infant. He has never shown any aggression towards the kids, but tends to knock them over.

Max's mom sent him with all of his stuff to make his transition more comfortable. He came with his extra large kennel, an extra large bed, two bags of toys and bones, a tall water and food bowl (so he doesn't have to strain his neck when he eats), and all his food/treats! The family who adopts him will get to take it all (and believe me, it's nice stuff!!). His mom has also said that she would like his new family to feel free to call her with any questions or concerns that they have about Max. She included a two page typed letter about him with her contact info at the bottom (and has asked me to send it with Max).

Max was very nervous coming to my house as he 'knew something was up' when he saw his stuff being collected and packed from his house. As he entered my house, he was immediately greeted by my 20 lb dog with a growl and a nip. Max was scared out of his wits! Poor guy. However, he is no longer afraid of my little dog but stays far, far away from my big dog, the alpha bitch, Diva. Max has a good sixth sense!

Medical Conditions - Max was born missing some bones in his front leg. The vet stated that there is no way to fix it but that he needs to maintain a healthy (lean) weight so that he doesn't aggravate the situation. I personally would never have guessed that he had any kind of 'condition' as he runs, jumps and walks like any other dog. He sometimes gets sore after long walks and gets an 81 mg aspirin to ease the stiffness. He is up to date on his shots but due this spring so I will take him in for a check up and updating.

Personality - Max is extremely friendly with people and submissive with both people and dogs. He immediately rolls on his back for belly rubs from new guests. He's good with kids, dogs and cats. He tends to be submissive and nervous of dogs who show any kind of dominance or aggressiveness. Max would probably enjoy being an only dog or with a very, very "dog friendly" dog. He loves to be petted, chew bones, go for walks, hang outside and look at the wildlife. His family said that he doesn't ride in cars but that has not been my experience (and I've only had one so far). He apparently doesn't like to swim (which reminds me of the Land of Misfit Toys on Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer .....a train with square wheels, a 'Charlie' in the box, and a golden who doesn't like to swim?!). haha. His mom said that he pulls on the leash so they used a pronged collar on him (which he came with). However, I used the gentle lead and he was fine after 10 minutes of playing bucking bronco.

He is potty trained and has never had an accident in his prior house (or mine). He has had two nervous vomit incidents since yesterday which is no big deal. He eats and sleeps well. He has no inappropriate chewing, scratching, or jumping habits. He likes walks, but doesn't need extended walks to be happy. He enjoys sleeping in his kennel and will put himself to bed when he's tired. He also likes to hide in small spaces (on top of my books on the shelf under my coffee table????). I have no idea how he fits there.

Future Family - Max would like a home where he is the only dog or with a very 'dog friendly' dog. He should be in a home without infants; merely because of he doesn't understand his size. He should go to a family that understands the importance and responsibility of proper weight management with Max to prevent any problems with his leg. Max would do well in just about any kind of home as he is what I call an "Instant Family Dog...just add food/water and enjoy. No assembly required."