Since Goo Goo arrived, Shio there have been some changes with Shio’s personality at home.
1. Protectiveness
The day before Goo Goo arrived was the day that she was spayed. Immediately upon meeting her, Shio decided that it was his job to protect our foster from shadows and babies by ferociously barking at them. He also goes to her crate after greeting us when we arrive home or wake up in the morning to make sure that she’s okay.
2. Patience
Day after day, Shio begs for Goo Goo to pay attention to him and play with him. He will play bow, bark, and wag his tail. The works.
3. Food
Apparently now that we have a second dog in our home, Shio is determined that there will be a pending famine because he has to share some of his food. He gobbles up his food much quicker than he normally would and then charges for Goo Goo’s leftovers.
4. Less Competitive
Usually when Shio walks next to another dog on a leash, he makes sure that he’s in the lead even if only by a nose. Not so with Goo Goo.
5. Jealousy
I’m not sure whether dogs experience jealousy or not but we’ve noticed that he will make sure that he has more attention when we greet Goo Goo. This subject will have to further be explored.
Thank you for another update–I love reading about the saga of Shio and Goo Goo! The adjustments seem be to going great. FWIW–and if my memory is correct–don’t have time to research it, on the Loki and Juju blog, the humans recorded a similar jealousy situation. They consulted a behaviorist who told them to favor the first dog–pet him first, put his food down first, etc. That method would not be correct for all dogs in all situations, and I know you’ll figure it out and keep us posted. Please keep those pics and vids coming! (The jealousy is something to watch though. Two of my mother’s dogs once started a fight over me. They both seemed to be crazy about me–and I gave them lots of love whenever I was there–and on that particular occasion, all I did was arrive and open the car door).
#3 was definitely the case for us, and actually quite a welcome change. Bowdu was a bit of a grazer before, but now that he finishes his meals promptly and in less than uh, 2 minutes (unless raw, of course), dinner time is relatively efficient. Of course, we have to feed the both in separate rooms, otherwise Bowdu will go for Bowpi’s food. Eat ’til it’s gone!
I do love these updates. The transition seems to be going well.
I have to hand feed Shio now because he wolfs down his food in less than 20 seconds.
Life with two dogs is definitely challenging but worth it!
I remember reading that post from Loki and Juju’s blog too! We’ve made sure to make Shio priority during hellos, meal times, leashing up, and just about anything else we can. The two of them are really cute together. Thanks for always reading our blog!