Brooklyn (AKA) Cornbread

Jan. 21, 2008

Just wanted to send an update your way to let you know I am absolutely in love with Brooklyn. She is so sweet, and so smart... And definitely a little feisty at times (her brief morning and evening puppy displays).   My mom (the self-proclaimed original dog whisperer) is in town from Michigan and she is blown away by how connected we are and what a perfect dog she is for me.

The other night we had about 10 people over for dinner. After dinner we played a few games together, and Brooke was just content to lay in the midst of us the whole time - sweet and friendly to all, annoying and rude to none. Such a great dog! Such a great fit for my life! This past Saturday she had her third round of puppy shots, and did very well. She also had a bit of tar or something stuck to her fur between her pads that I noticed the second day I had her. They shaved that off for her as she just laid in my arms - no complaints. She was 25 pounds even, and is starting to look so much taller to me already.

Potty training is going very well. She now gives me this look, then goes and sits by the sliding door looking at the handle until I let her out. So smart! We've had a couple accidents here and there - but they are always my fault.   This week we are working on "drop it" command, as it seems she wants to eat anything and everything she finds on the ground. Chewing inside has not really been a problem at all, but as soon as we get outside every rock, stick, woodchip, flower, you name it - she wants it in her mouth. And I'm a little paranoid and overprotective for now, so learning "drop it" is a must.   She does love her toys (which she has way too many of), but she also loves ice. It is fun to watch her play with it, and good for that teething.

I am so glad we opted to crate train as she loves sleeping in her crate at night (next to my bed) and does very well in it when I am not at home. She has never soiled in her crate and this has really helped to accelerate the potty training process. Woo-Hoo!

At this time my biggest challenge is teaching her I am the leader of this pack (and that my hands are not for biting.)    She is a dominant and independent little girl (I think I've met my match) Although she does exhibit some dominant behaviors, she is also very laid back and sweet which makes for a great - kind and happy, yet strong and brave- disposition.

I am so glad Brooke is a part of our home now, and am daily convinced we were meant to be together. I am also so grateful that her foster family cared for her so much. They gave her a great start and that is evident in how she is today. Thanks Jeff and Rachel!

April 21, 2008

Hey Everyone,

I can't believe these pups are 6 months old! And how fast they have grown. On a recent trip to the vet, Brooke weighed in at a solid 58 pounds!

Brooke (aka Cornbread) is an amazing dog. From the start she has been quick and easy to train, very motivated by treats (or even her own dog food from hand), and loves people. She has a very sweet disposition and is a little love bug. She loves the beach (although she has yet to submerge herself), the dog park, taking walks, napping outside in the sun, and playing with her best pal Daisy (our neighbor's golden retriever.)

Unfortunately, Brooke gets car sick on long trips, so we haven't made as many trips to dog beach as I'd like. I recently got a larger vehicle with a hatch so she can have the whole back to herself. I think this may decrease her anxiety a bit so I will be trying again soon.

The one issue we've had is that she loves to jump on people - especially little kids - she doesn't have a mean bone in her body - it's just her way to get to the face and get a good lick. I'd really like to break her of this, though. She is proving to be a great guard dog. She accidentally got out one day through the open garage door. There were some people walking by, she stopped right at the edge of the driveway before the sidewalk and barked loudly and repeatedly. She stayed a few feet away and just "pointed" in there direction as if to say, "You are fine where you are, but don't try to come in my house." She's really only acted this way when she is startled. When people come to our house (which is quite often), and we welcome them in she is very happy to see them.

Brooke is a great addition to my life, I couldn't imagine a better dog. My best friend who is also my roommate has never been too sold on dogs, but she is blown away by what a good dog Brooke is, and is happy she is in our home. Her kids (12, 9, & 3) have, of course, fallen in love with her too! I am anxiously planning a trip to Hawaii in a few weeks, as I am anticipating having a hard time leaving her and missing her.

Someday, I would love to get all the pups together for a little "family reunion". It would be fun to see how they interact.

I have attached a some pics, I can't believe how much Brooke and and Coco look alike!

Be well,

Erika