I think as long as a pet knows he/she will be loved they will answer to any name you want to call them. He is a beauty!!
Aw lovely boy. I couldn't help smiling at your comment about hair-welcome to my world Eileen,although mine involves long white hair not short black I love it that already he has decided that you are his Mum when he needs reassurance .I hope you all have a lovely long time together.
We've just found out that Merlin isn't a cross-Lab at all but a Rhodesian Ridgeback. My daughter came on a visit yesterday and immediately recognised the breed as her neighbours have them. When I checked on the internet I found pictures that matched Merlin in every way - even down to the white toes. His character matches what I have read too. Now don't get me wrong he's a great dog but I have to admit I'm a little worried that we taken on more than we intended to. At least now I know exactly what we are dealing with and not looking for Labrador traits in his nature. I'm going to 'phone the Dog's Trust to let them know just in case they make the same mistake again with another dog.
One of our vets had a ridgeback and she was the sweetest thing when she sat behind the reception desk.She also liked the treats they left on there for their clients
May I ask why, Eileen? Ridgebacks are sweet dogs. Very connected and faithful to their owners, a little reserved with strangers, but loving and gentle dogs. Just curious why you think you may have bitten off more than you can chew.
Ronnie it's absolutely nothing to do with Merlin himself as we've had no problems with him whatsoever so far. I had just been reading up about their natures on the net and it worried me slightly. However, we've decided to ignore all that and take things a day at a time. :-D When we took him to our own vet today for a check-up he confirms that he's more than likely a pure bred RR. He said that just because he doesn't have a prominent ridge doesn't mean he isn't a RR as approximately 33% don't have ridges at all - especially the black ones. Here are a couple of pics of Black RR's. The first two don't have distinct ridges.... ... this one does:- They do look the spitting image of Merlin don't they? He's an older boy though so has the grey on his face. Edited 'cause I hit the post button and then decided to add the last sentence.
I did some googling myself and was really surprised to see the similarities between the pedigreed RR's and Merlin. Definitely a match! Yeah, the show quality ones will have that ridge for sure, but that doesn't mean that purebreds will too. My two chihuahuas are purebreds are far as I know, but they are different visually as well as in temperament. For example, Tango has the bulging eyes typical of the chi, whereas Jazz's eyes are smaller and almond shaped. I'm glad Merlin's working out or you in spite of possible reservations.
Hi Eileen,..i am catching up on my absence from the Stew,..oh boy lots have happened ,..well congrats on your new pet Merlin,..he looks good and seems very well trained,..you have to take pity on him being in the Kennels since December he must have really felt abandoned,..he will appreciate you taking him to your home and showing him kindness,..dogs know things.
