The "O" Factor

Boris' best buddy lives next door to us. He's a strikingly handsome, all black, German Shepherd Dog. I don't know if it's because he's a GSD, but Boris completely relates to him and sees him as a "big brother" that'll show him the ropes.

Othello is a few years older than Boris; he's 9, Boris is 2. 'Thello is calm and reserved, and Mr. B is insecure and bouncy. When they're together, it's apparent who's the alpha. For example, the first time 'thello came to visit us, he immediately went to Mr. B's bed and plopped right down on it. Definitely alpha dog behavior to let Mr. B know who is in charge, but Boris happily defers to him.

Having Othello be a mentor is definitely a help for Boris. Since Boris was 9 week old puppy, he has pretty much known only Kola and me. He's gone to puppy kinder garden, doggie daycare, and other obedience classes, but never lived so closely to another dog to help socialize him properly. Before 'thello, I felt sorry for Boris not having another of his kind to just hang and be a dog with. He loves us - or, we think so - but it's not the same. Like needs like companionship.

Recently the two went on a walk together. Boris has been on millions of walks, but it's always about getting exercise, going from point a to point b, or doing his business. It was very cute to see Boris watch Othello's every move to find out, "what do we do when we see a person? a bike? a group of kids?" In those moments I could almost hear 'thello say, "chill, little bro. You'll see this everyday and they're harmless. Relax. Just enjoy the great smells around here with a big sniff. Occasionally, if you're fast enough, you can find a nice snack on the ground. Chicken bones are especially good."

Lessons learned: Every living thing needs a companion that reflects who they are, and every once in a while you get to enjoy a snack that is bad for you - which are the most fun!