Tucker 14-039 [1]

Tucker is a 3 year old (approximately), male, neutered,  "Golden" Great Pyrenees (GP).  He currently weighs 91 pounds, but in consultation with the vet this morning we think his target weight should be at least 20 pounds less.

He is in very good health overall and is up to date on his vaccinations.

He joined us in our home on Tuesday  afternoon, so we are just getting to know Tucker.  He was in boarding for a few weeks after he came to RAGOM from a foster family with another rescue organization - so it may take some time for him to get comfortable and reveal his true personality.

As soon as I put his leash on to bring him home from the kennel, he was "ready to go."  And pretty much ran out the door and jumped in the car.  Tucker rode very nicely in the backseat - laying down when we were moving and sitting up to look out the windows when we were at stop signs.  All the attendants at the kennel were giving him love as he dashed by, and commenting on what a "sweet" boy he is.

He is very tuned into his collar and leash - and gets excited when he thinks it is time for a walk.  We are using a harness on him for walks - and while he zig zags a bit - he can be controlled with the right harness.  I would caution against using a gentle leader (it slips off his nose) or trusting a leash attached to his collar (collar can slip over his head because of his neck size).  Despite his size - he is very enthusiastic for walks and has good stamina.  

Tucker loves to be outside and does not appear to be bothered by the snow or the cold.  In an effort to make sure he is house-broken, we have indulged his frequent requests to go outside.  But most of these turn out to be sniffing and snow eating adventures rather than bathroom breaks.  He is definitely house broken and will go to the door to let you know he needs to go.

If he can't BE outside he is usually lying in front of the glass doors or looking out the front windows.  Like most GPs - it appears that Tucker feels like it is his job to patrol the house and yard and monitor the neighborhood and make sure all is well.  There are dogs that bark at him from the house next door - and while his ears perk up - he has not returned their barks.

So far interaction with our resident female has been minimal - giving them a chance to appropriately sniff one another and get acquainted so he doesn't get stressed.  He seems to be interested in where she is - but is not really seeking her out.  He seems to notice her and want to engage mostly when they are outside.

Tucker is not your typical "velcro" Golden and is content to be in his own space (this may change as he gets more comfortable with me and in our home).  But he does seek out affection and likes to be petted and have his paws rubbed.  From what we have observed so far - he is a very sweet and gentle boy seeking a relatively quiet home filled with love and security.

His coat  is a combination of coarse and soft hair.  And anyone who has managed a long-haired dog is thinking about grooming . . .   I had him groomed the day I picked him up and he did great.  Tucker let the groomer bathe and dry him and clip his nails.  So no concerns there.

Watch for an update in the next week or so as Tucker begins his weight-loss plan and settles into a routine.