Hi my name is Cali Red and I’m the final arrival from the Wines litter. The family I had for a little while in Texas couldn’t take care of me, so I hitched a ride to Minnesota – better late than never! My coloring is so unique – grey and tan brindle with eyes to match. I’ve got a goofy grin and perky ears that twist and turn as I observe the world around me.
Right now I stay in my own suite (the kitchen), gated off from the rest of the house. At first, I didn’t really like when my foster pawrents were out of sight and would whine a bit, but as I’ve settled in I’ve realized I can trust they haven’t gone far. I am crate trained and sleep in there at night with a couple stuffies. This home is structured so I have multiple times per day to burn off energy as well as time to practice laying low and going slow (napping!). My fosters don’t let me have free reign of the house yet, because I haven’t figured out a distinct cue to let them know I need to go outside to go potty, but I need to give myself some credit because I can wait 3-4 hours between outings with no accidents. I’ve been exploring the world on my walks twice per day and I’m learning to walk politely on the leash wearing a power loop around my nose. There are so many things I am curious about on our walks – birds, squirrels, strollers, rabbits – but more than a good chase, I like to observe.
I am friendly and respectful of the resident dogs in my foster home (an older Chihuahua gentleman and a 5-year-old female cattle dog) and I think they kind of like me. I get this impression because the cattle dog makes guttural hooting sounds while pretending my legs are corncobs to be eaten. 🙂 This seems like a good sign and I don’t mind, even though it is a bit strange. After our long trip up from Texas, I got to play with some younger puppies and even helped my dog friend who was a little shy come out of her shell. Not trying to brag, but I really get along with everyone. When I am in the backyard I am hooked to a tie-out and play fetch with the humans. I am a toy destroyer! Give me your squeaky, your fluffy, your ropey toys and I will work my hardest to dissemble them. Sometimes if I get too excited, I forget how big I am and where my mouth is when I’m playing so I will need help learning how to be in control even when things get exciting.
I’m still figuring things out – and what I need most is someone who believes in me. My dream home is a quiet single-family house with a yard where I can play and feel safe, and maybe a confident older dog who could support my ongoing development into a respectful young man. When you leave, I worry you won’t come back, so I talk to ease my nerves. It’s not ideal for apartment or townhome life right now, but I am a work in progress. With your patience, structure, and love, I know I can learn to feel secure, stay calm, and finally trust that I’m not being left behind. Are you the one who can help me find my peace?
