2010-03-01T06:02:00.000-08:00

Maxx stretched out and calmly waiting for another walk...

2010-02-08T04:26:00.000-08:00

Foster home report:
Maxx is a sweet 8 year old pup. He has a beautiful white with black patch coat, and beautiful eyes. He gets along great with other dogs and cats don't seem to be a problem either. He does need company either in the form of another dog(s) or people - he doesn't like being left alone which is understandable as until recently he has had his "sister" (BT's Dawn - aka Lady) always nearby. He is happy to adopt new siblings though, as it took only a few days to adjust to his foster home and his two greyhound housemates (and his people).

Maxx's disposition is on the shy, sensitive side. He apparently doesn't like thunderstorms but we haven't experienced this. We have also been told he doesn't like crates which didn't cause any problems in our house as our 2 residents don't typically use a crate either. He would just prefer to curl up in his bed to pass the time.

There's one thing about Maxx that's very different from other hounds we have experience with - though we have heard and read of this behavior. Maxx is one of those few dogs that actually smiles when he's excited or very happy. A greyhound smile can be a little shocking for someone that hasn't experienced it as it reveals his teeth. We were a little shocked the first time we experienced it ourselves (even though we understood it). Under normal circumstances the only time you would see a dog curl his top lip back would be when he's growling and trying to warn you off. For Maxxthe emotion driving the behavior is clearly at the opposite end of the spectrum. For Maxx, curling up your upper lip is a way of showing maximum joy and enthusiasm.

We see Maxx smile most often when we are getting ready to head out for a walk (Maxx loves his walks) or when we come home. His tail wags all over the place and he will look up at you all enthusiastic with his nose and lip wrinkled up. There is nothing threatening about the behavior - Maxx has to be one of the most gentile dogs we have been around in fact.

Signandale (nka Maxx)