I made a trip to see Max last Wednesday to get acquainted with him. He welcomed me - and did so for subsequent visits - with hard and full licks on my face. It was the most affectionate lick I have ever got from a dog. As I spoke to W.Yee, I noticed Max just went back to his little bed to rest. He came across as being aloof. It could be that he is already too matured to be concerned with what goes around him; or that one of the characteristics of his breed type is being independent. By the way, Max stays indoor. Later, W.Yee let me walk him around the neighbourhood. According to her, the only objective for Max of going out for walks is to chase cats. He aptly did this when we walked at the backlane of a row of houses. He did pull, but not as determined and forceful as other dogs I have walked; and that of my own dogs. Another habit pointed out by W.Yee is that he will sometimes insist on taking his own route. And if anyone were to do otherwise, he would sit down and plant himself on the ground. After that one hour acquaintance, I was awaiting eagerly for the weekend to arrive.
Saturday morning's session in the house started off well. Got my welcome licks after I entered the house. He minded his own business as I warmed up his meal in the microwave and swept his fur from the floor. His morning meal consist of pre-cooked rice, potatoes, meat and beans. Evening meal is kibbles and fresh milk. I have been told that Max has to sit before getting to eat. He did so without any resistance. His way of eating was very forceful. From putting it into his mouth to licking it. As a result, the floor was littered with the contents.
After eating, it was time to walk. The moment I opened the sliding door, he went right to the garden to urinate. He did this for the next three visits, even though I was holding the retractable leash to signal it was walking time. However he was eager to get out of the house. Guess W.Yee was right. He just wanted to see the cats. But something happened which got me worried for a moment. He was resting on his side (ie photo above) as I was wearing my shoes before leashing him. Suddenly his body quivered, and he was looking at his penis. He got up and the whole of his penis was sticking out. I approached him with the leash, and he growled. He was clearly uncomfortable, and was walking in staggered steps while looking down at his penis. He could not even sit down. So I decided to wait and hope it goes back in. It finally did after 20 minutes. The leash was put on and we were ready to walk. The first walk with Max was not easy. Especially his sitting down and resisiting to move when I wanted to take a route which he did not want to go. He wanted to see the cats at the backlane again before going home.
For the subsequent walks, I avoided the route where there were cats, and took him on other routes. Those walks were very relaxing, as Max was willingly following the route which I took him along. In this neighbourhood, there were many pet dogs. Despite all their barking at us, Max never once looked at them, and went on with his walk and sniffing. I admired this composure. Either he is already used to them, or he is naturally cool and relaxed. The true test of this character was displayed when we came across - on two occasions - dogs which were left out of their house premises by irresponsible dog owners. These dogs were ferociously guarding their territory, with teeth baring and all ready to set upon us. I did not realise, until after the episode, that I was the only one reacting to their threat - shouting, thumping my foot, and pretending to pick up something to throw at them. I know this not what one is supposed to do when encountering such events. But I have to protect my client's dogs, and these guys were approaching real fast and near toward us. I realised Max did not react in any way to these threats. No confrontational stance, no running away to hide, no growl and barks. He was still in his usual composed nature. While I admired him, I was also embarrassed that I was not at all composed. However, I wonder what Max would have done if dogs had attacked.
On the subject of elimination, Max did not defecate until the third walk (second day). And it was the only time he did it. This habit was affirmed by W.Yee. I guess she was right, Max goes for walks only to chase cats, and not to eliminate.
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| Pant! Pant! That was one good walk! |
After this dog sitting experience, I realised I learnt a lot about him. He is independent, obstinate and aloof. I have also learnt some things from him. Don't be too reactive to stressful events; and to adversity. Only then a person can make a clear and rational decision. However, I wish I could know what was Max thinking in those stressful incidents that we came across.
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