Charlie
As you know from a few posts back, our Leonberger Bismarck passed away suddenly in November. I am still heartbroken, but I also can’t bear not having a dog; it’s part of our family life to have that smiling, furry companion. It was like feeling two absences—both Bismarck and just the presence of a dog. I started a search very early on, knowing that I wouldn’t get another Leonberger for a while—Bismarck is just too special and irreplaceable.
We started our search with deciding which breed to get, I wanted a dog that could be quickly trained and that was well regarded as child friendly. The Golden Retriever just checks those boxes so perfectly. We are hoping to train Charlie as a therapy dog that I can use with Pet Partners, and we also want a dog that can grow and be loved by JV. I think Charlie will be up to the task for both. Already, I can tell that he and JV have a special bond.
Charlie is also learning to pose for pictures, and I love how intently he wants to follow directions. He is a puppy, but he has a very serious affect when he is trying to please. Hopefully he will be a picture-pro in no time!