When you think of all the wonderful qualities of a Golden, Marley is the Golden you are thinking of. She arrived in foster care a week ago with a smile on her face and a heart full of love. This dog cannot get enough attention! She is a sweet little gal that is happiest right next to her people. 

Marley grew up on a farm and was allowed to free roam. As stated above, a move caused her family to have to make a tough decision, but one that placed Marley's needs above their own. This means that Marley is used to living with a family.

She seems to enjoy my busy house because more people means more affection! She is crate trained and we did not hear a peep out of her throughout her first night. She will go in her crate to take a nap, too.

We have been warned that she has a high prey drive. She has killed a couple chickens in her time on the farm. For this reason, she cannot go to a home with cats. I would prefer her home have a physical fence, but since she has a history of living with free roam on a farm and not leaving that acerage, I do not feel it is required.

However, I feel strongly against an invisible fence. If Marley does chase a rabbit or squirrel, I don't know if an invisible fence will stop her, and she needs to be able to return to her yard. I will need to consider her adopter's set-up to make sure she is safe. 

Marley has no experience with a leash. She is a puller! I will be working hard with leash manners while she is in foster care, but this will be something a future adopter must consider. She would not be a good fit for someone who has arm or shoulder issues or who cannot properly handle 55lbs of pulling dog.

She will need someone who is patient and consistent in getting her acquired to a leash. Today we used a Gentle Leader and took a cruise around my backyard. Baby steps. She did well and is treat motivated and loves being told she is a good girl! She knows a few basic commands like sit and down.

Marley also had her first vet visit and bath. She let me scrub her up for a long time. Wash, rinse repeat! The vet did find a minor ear infection and removed some wax, but she is otherwise healthy and brought up to date on her shots. She will be going for her spay on 12/4. 

Marley is getting along wonderfully with my two year old Doodle. They play chase, have zoomies, destroy toys, and wrestle between naps. She has let my dog take all her toys and has not exhibited any resource guarding. However, I do feed them separately to limit the opportunity should either one suddenly change their mind.

This beautiful, happy dog is going to make a great addition to the right family. With a little consistency and a few treats, her manners will be polished up in no time! Marley is just a little gem and we are looking forward to meeting a family that has tons of love to give her.