Marbles

Our Marbles is a comical character who has had some string of bad luck! He was returned to us during COVID when his adopter became caregiver for an elderly parent, but his origins are Southern. Originally, Marbles came to us first from a Virginia rescue whose volunteers were smitten with his striking appearance, and beautiful merle colors. Marbles seems to be an Australian Cattle Dog, but head shape and floppy ears suggests some Lab DNA. After his original owners gave up on him, Marbles was left in a Virginia shelter without a strong adoption program. His options became tragically limited, so we invited him to Connecticut. Clearly, Marbles is is a double dose of working dog, so he definitely needs an active lifestyle and a job. Herders are hardwired to work, and if his adopters do not give Marbles a job, he will practice his herding skills within the household. A bored, frustrated herding dog is a recipe for mayhem. Exercise and obedience training are the keys to managing the Herding breeds. seven years old, Marbles is a high-energy dog, who would make a great running, walking or hiking partner. He's built for speed, but will adjust his pace to suit his handler. He needs at least three brisk daily leash walks, in addition to focused playtime. Adopters can increase the intensity of a walk by outfitting Marbles with a dog backpack, loaded with water, and a collapsable bowl. At each rest and water stop, Marbles will feel like he's got a job and will be quite proud of himself. Obedience training is essential to meeting the needs of a Herding dog. Marbles already knows all of his basic obedience commands, and has passed many of his Canine Good Citizenship tests. Structure and obedience work go a long way in providing him the mental and physical challenges that he needs. Adopters should be prepared to troubleshoot things that come up with Marbles, as he transitions to a new environment. Marbles is best suited to an active adult home, with a dog savvy single or couple, who have the time and energy to give him his daily exercise. Tranquility and calm suit Marbles best. In a chaotic, hectic environment he becomes anxious and demonstrates herding behavior in order to maintain social order. In a calm environment, Marbles relaxes and enjoys quiet time with his people. Kids and cats may provide too much stimulation, but Marbles could easily join a multi-dog home, with an energy compatible, well socialized dog. Marbles has good house manners and is house trained and crate trained, although adopters should expect to troubleshoot a few accidents during his transition to a new routine. He is in excellent health, has been neutered. He has had routine health screenings and vaccinations.  If you are interested in Marbles, please write to [email protected] or call/text Denise at 860-908-9738 for more info.