My Not-So-ADHD Dog

Santa left me the most adorable Labradoodle pup this year. He's covered with chocolate brown curls and has amazing green eyes. His arrival ended a five year "I'll never own another dog" phase. My previous pooch, a Lhasa Apso, was described by me, family members, groomers, trainers and even dog therapists as: stubborn, ornery, dominant, aggressive, un-groomable, and un-trainable. I loved her, but when she passed away, I welcomed the break and reveled in my dog-free life.

So when my new pup Dasher arrived on Christmas Day, I was ready for the challenge. And I assumed that it would, in fact, be a challenge. Imagine my total delight when Dasher was "sitting on his mat" the very next day, playing fetch the following day, and mastering "come", "sit", "down", and "stay" before his 8 week birthday.

I'd heard that Labradoodles were smart, but the real bonus is his focus. He actually has drive. He's completely alert and on task during his training sessions. He wants to learn. He's eager to please. And the more he succeeds, the more I'm willing to commit my time.

Dasher has no idea the gift he's become to my family. His attention keeps us all at attention. His drive is driving all of us. Who knew a focused little dog would be such potent medication to a family who struggles with ADHD. Welcome, Dasher! We needed you!