Welcome to the Pack, Max!

Max, a chihuahua-terrier mix, joined our pack a few weeks ago. Here’s how it went down.

Max did this little line dance when I stopped by with some hot dogs at the shelter one night as we were closing.

Never underestimate the power of hot dogs in dog training.

Who could resist that little diddy? A few days later I took him home as a foster with only the slightest idea that he might be my first “Foster Fail” by keeping him.

Macy and Max have different approaches to life (Macy = zaney and driven, Max = cautious and careful), but they did a pretty good job getting to know each other. Maybe it’s their affinity for back polka dots.

Max: Nice dots. Macy: Same to you, good sir!

Max is an expert finder of comfy and hidey spots around the house.

As long as Max doesn’t hog Macy’s “Neck Pillows”, everything stays peaceful and they often sleep with each other.

A few weeks into fostering and after some serious soul-searching (Max has some behavior concerns that he’ll need time and support with), I decided to welcome Max into to the pack 🙂.

So it’s Michael, Macy, and Max. The three M’s. Or maybe the Three ‘M-igos? 😂

We’re working to help Max become more confident around strangers and new dogs.

Honestly, there are so many humans I would love to bark at if I were a dog — I’m talking to you sunglass-wearing, staring, stiff-bodied, hat-wearing and or bearded human terrors! — so I’ll just grade Max on a curve for now and softly whisper “I would have barked at that guy too” in certain circumstances.

Max and his owner are probably going to need some extra help with building up his confidence around other dogs though. Max amps up to an 11 when a new dog gets within even 30 feet or so, hot dogs be damned.

No matter how much I learn about training, there’s always more to learn and a dog with a background that you haven’t experienced yet. Never a dull moment!

Welcome Max! And “Good Girl” to you Macy for being such an accommodating and friendly step pup. Good girl!