UPDATE 2/6/06: Kona RRUFF #10 is adjusting wonderfully in foster care. Considering he spent the last year confined in a crate most of the time, he has not shown any negative effects…. at least not with his house manners. OK, if given the opportunity he will take food off the counter, get in the trash or jump on the couch, but he’s still a work in progress and is showing improvement in these areas. Kona weighs around 83 pounds and is slightly under weight. Our vet recommends he gain about 5 pounds. He was neutered not that long ago and should now start to put on some weight. In tact males are often on the lean side. Kona is a tall boy with a big head. At times he can be puppy like - all goofy and awkward with his big paws and long legs.
Kona needs to get out in public more to learn how to behave properly. He gets so excited that he can be a handful in hectic situations. He is extremely people friendly and wants to meet everyone. He does well with dogs of either sex that are his own size or bigger, but no small dogs or cats for him. Because he is easily excitable, its also recommended he be placed in a home without young children.
In foster care, Kona has learned to walk with a loose leash and not pull. He does enjoy a nice jog, but a long walk is just as good in his book. He has also learned sit, down and to wait at doors. He is now learning to shake/give paw and the concept of fetch. He is crate trained, house broken, neutered, up to date on shots and on heartworm prevention. He has shown no food aggression issues and is very gentle when taking treats from hands. If asked, he will bring the bone he is chewing to you and will put it in your hand (yuk).
Kona is a good boy with a big heart, but he does need someone with experience dealing with large breeds, as he has tested his foster parents to see what they will let him get away with. Just like any adolescent boy would do. Once he is corrected though he rarely tries it again. He listen well… well at least when he is not too worked up. A basic training class and some more socialization will make a huge difference with him.
Kona is currently in foster care in Southern NH.
If you are interested in adopting Kona, you must
visit our website and fill out an adoption application.
