We’re not sure who would want to hide the face of this handsome, 14-year-old Havanese gentleman, but welcome to Muttville: Helmut! Perhaps the helmut is to keep him safe – Helmut is a shy senior, tentatively exploring his new digs with a bit of apprehension. After all, it’s a big scary world out there, and it can be good to be cautious. Despite his timidity, Helmut is clearly enjoying himself; he has the biggest doggy smile that lifts the spirits of everyone around him. We’re sure that his confidence will grow as he feels more comfortable (in fact, it’s already starting to!), so maybe his the helmut is more of a safety blanket? His supermodel good looks and fabulous fur will immediately captivate your attention, so Helmut’s namesake piece of equipment might be to protect his money maker. Or, maybe YOU are the one who needs a Helmut so you don’t hit your head when dazzled by the glorious cuteness that is Helmut? There’s only one way to find out, so if you want to get to the bottom of this mystery, come down and meet him today!
Here’s some notes from his foster:
Helmut is a sweet little man who is mainly interested in fitting in and getting along with his new forever family. He is confident, curious, and definitely a cuddle-meister. When you pick him up he wraps himself around your arm and holds on. If you approach him with a leash in your hand he does a hoppy-skippy little circular dance …. he also dances when he sees a treat or his dinner dish heading his way. He loves his walks – not too long – but he’s pretty mobile. He’s been doing two walks a day with me – one mid-day and short second one before he heads off to Bedfordshire.
He’s happy to sleep on his bed by your bed. He can do stairs if you are patient and surprises you with bursts of energy sometimes. He is people-focused and wants to be wherever you are … he likes to watch you from his bed, but he’s happier sitting beside you getting belly and bum rubs. He doesn’t seem interested in toys but I would bet that his new person can develop his sense of toy play. I’ve observed no issues when I leave the house for a while.
On the practical side, he likes a schedule. He gets up when I get up and likes to head out for a good pee before anything else happens. After that he heads for the kitchen while I “prepare” his meal. From what I’ve observed he loves to eat, but will sometimes leave some and come back for it later. He’s treat responsive and will twirl for a good biscuit. He’s good with all things potty – no accidents so far – and uses the pee pad when necessary. He barks but not annoyingly … It’s a little high pitched bark (usually only once or twice) when he wants to go out, when he’s in the car heading for a walk, or when someone comes to the door. Not an ounce of aggression – when someone new approaches they get a sniff down and become his buddy. I have him in a crate when in the car and while he doesn’t like it, he doesn’t fuss about it either.
I don’t have cats or young children around so I don’t know how he is around them, but I do have a very grumpy senior girl (doxie-chihuahua) who he is still trying to win over. He seems to do well with other small guys; doesn’t seem interested in being a “top dog” but rather one of the guys.
He’s a very happy little guy who will bring lots of love and smiles to his new family.
