Ivan is possibly the most wonderful, even though highly spoiled, dog ever.

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Ivan has turned out to be the ultimate wonderful dog. If you remember, he had some "issues" with other dogs and even some people. But with a little time we've worked these things out. It turns out his dog issues are now limited to "intact" males (we term this as Ivan's "testicular envy") but generally he really enjoys other dogs and loves to play with them; quite a change from his previous behavior. A group of us have what we call "wine and dog" parties, and he's great with all the dogs there - it can be up to 10 or more! He also used to be uneasy with men, particularly with them petting him on the rump. Not only is he ok now, but I take him regularly to the Biltmore mall, and he's a favorite at a lot of the stores. He's got a whole lot of fans in Macy's shoe department among other places. He knows some tricks and men in particular love the "high five" he gives. He's so much fun that I get much better service!

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On the spoiled note, I bought a house (pretty much for him...) and he now has a whole back yard to play in via a doggie door. I found out that he fits the description and behaviors of the Australian Kelpie. So, I found a person who gives sheep herding lessons and he was great with the sheep!

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From the pictures, you'll see that I have taken him everywhere- the picture of him romping in the snow is when I took him up to Flagstaff to introduce him to snow. He's been to Sedona 3 or 4 times, and I even have a picture of him at the Grand Canyon! He's just perfect to travel with; he's obedient, quiet. I can't tell you how many times people have commented on his good behavior when I'm out to dinner with him (did I mention that he goes everywhere with me?)- we are inseparable.

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He's the easiest possible dog to have around: he is great off-leash, he doesn't bark, he obeys commands, he doesn't chew, get into the garbage, nothing like that- I keep his treats on a shelf on the floor and he won't even try to eat them, he doesn't beg. Basically, if he paid the bills and didn't shed, he'd be a perfect life partner.

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Not that I'm biased or anything, Ivan is just such a great dog. He's got great manners (he got his Canine Good Citizen certificate this year) and everyone loves him. Sometimes, when I'm petting him at night and he's so content and lovey-dovey, I think about him spending all that time in the kennel and being unwanted and I can't believe that it only took some consistency to produce one of the best dogs ever. He is a great example that there is a place for every dog.

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Well, I just wanted to share and let you know about a success story.