Pippa

Who is Pippa?

Pippa is approximately 18 months old.  She is a Springer Spaniel cross Border Collie whose primary colour is black with white markings and 4 white socks.  She is already neutered and will be chipped before leaving the Home.

Why did Pippa come into the home?

Pippa was brought to the Home by her former owner who was unable to manage her nervous and wary character.  She arrived to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in March 2007.

What is Pippa like?

Initially Pippa is a very nervous and wary character, but once her trust in her handler grows we see a completely different side to her.  She has a fun, interactive personality and definitely has a cheeky side to her.  She is motivated greatly by people and by toys which can easily be used as tools with her training.  She knows basic commands, she is house-trained and she enjoys mental stimulation.  She is very social with other dogs and displays wonderful clear body language when meeting them.  She could live with another dog providing they have no issues regarding chase, toys or strangers.

Why has Pippa been seen by the Behaviour Unit?

Pippa has spent time with the staff in the Behaviour U nit of the Home primarily for her reaction to strangers.  She can be very vocal and wary around new people.  Further issues have also been seen and investigated.  These involve a chase issue around joggers or cyclists and also she has an excitable side to her which manifests itself in excessive jumping up.  Future owners will need to put time into establishing a routine in their home with Pippa.  They will also have to take on advice given by the Behaviour Unit in Battersea on controlling chase and introducing her to new people.

What kind of home is Pippa looking for?

Due to Pippa's reaction to strangers it is essential she be rehomed to a rural area with a low population density.  She also must live in a house with a large secure garden for burn-offs and training.  Within this home owners must provide a designated space that she will recognise as "hers" if she needs to get away for some quiet time. 

What kind of owners is Pippa looking for?

 It is compulsory that owners have experience of wary dogs and know how to maintain them in the home.  Ideally they will have owned Spaniels or other working breeds before.  Owners will have to have an adult-only household due to a need for consistency and a need for a quiet environment.  Owners should not have the expectation that they can somehow change her behaviours as we believe she will always be nervous of new faces.  Owners with a set and calm routine would be ideal. Finally owners must be prepared to listen to advice from the Behaviour Unit and to follow an ongoing training program.

I Think I would fit that criteria. What should I do next?

Contact a member of the Behaviour team on 02076277884, or email [email protected] and quote the reference 2007/01628.  Pippa will need some further training in her new home. To receive advice and guidance regarding this training from the Behaviour Unit staff that have worked with her, potential owners should be prepared to come into the Dogs Home for a minimum of two visits.

Send to a friend