Now and Then: Puppyhood

Remember my first day home? It seems like so long ago! One of the first things I did was to attack my dad's face and give him lots of kisses:

Looks like my foster sister Kayna had the same idea...

Don't forget to kiss the ones you love today too! 

It's the Pits

Mom and Dad have long wondered about where I came from and what I am. People stop and ask my parents all the time, "what is he?" Their best answer is "we're not sure, what do you think?" because the truth is that they don't know either!

When Mom and Dad brought me home they were told I was a "German Shepherd mix" though I don't know how true that is. Here I am on my first day home. Do I look like a shepherd pup to you?

I might be part shepherd (given the dark nose and bushy tail) but we've considered a couple of other options as well. Maybe Boxer? Perhaps Ridgeback? Even Pit Bull has been in the mix.

I know what you must all be thinking - Pit Bull? And your mind probably jumped immediately to all the bad things you know about dogs like me. We are vicious, too violent, and mean. We have way too much energy and we bite unexpectedly. We like to fight, thanks to some football player that got too much press for a very bad thing. In truth, you are partially right. Some Pit Bulls are aggressive and some are mean. Some like to fight and some bite. However, those bad boys should not dirty the name of our breed. You can't say we are going to be violent or mean simply based on who our parents are.  I'm not going to say that about you.

In fact, according to testing by The National Canine Temperament Testing Association, the Golden Retriever, Poodle, Border Collie, English Setter, and numerous other breeds are considered more likely to become aggressive than the mix of breeds commonly referred to as Pit Bulls. According to an article by Modern Dog Magazine, "bully breeds" are usually extremely loyal, lovey and often goofy. They are also known for being very good with children and are even referred to as "nanny" dogs in the UK because they are often trusted to look after the children.

I guess my point is that prejudices and generalizations just aren't fair. I am not a violent dog and I have little interest in fighting unless it is with Dad on the floor of the living room trying to get my bone back. I am probably one of the lucky ones. I ended up with parents who love me no matter what I am or where I came from!

One last pic to try changing your mind if I haven't already. What's not to love about such a happy "Pit Bull Smile?"

Now and Then - The Fire Hydrant

Writing about fire the other night gave mom a flashback to a picture she took the first day I came home. We walked all around the condo complex, sniffing everything possible and meeting lots of new friends. In that sense, nothing has changed. However, I think I've grown up just a bit in the two years since then...

If nothing else I have certainly learned to pose for pictures!

Now and Then - My morning ritual

My mornings generally include a nice brisk walk, some breakfast and lots of laying around and pouting just hoping mom will give in and stay home with me. It never happens. Nevertheless I always try.

In fact, this was me begging for some lovin' at a very young age:

And look at me now:

I'm not gonna give up...there's still hope!