Kobayashi

After a week with just the three of us, we both felt that David's rescued greyhound, Kobayashi,  deserved a dedicated post. We assumed he was named after the Japanese bonsai professional.

Kunio Kobayashi

But as it turns out, he's actually named after the competitive eater LOL.  

Takeru Kobayashi

On a side note, Ira tried to explain competitive eating to Melissa. She may still be laughing. It's kind of ridiculous when you think about it.

Kobayashi

This is Kobayashi. Isn't he handsome? Shanda called his coloring brindle or tiger-striped. David kept apologizing for his dog's weirdness. I think he didn't want us to change our mind. We admit Kobayashi has his quirks, but we pretty much worked those out by the end of the week. 

The main ones were pet him only when he asks and don't disturb him when he's sleeping or much growling could occur. Not unreasonable, right? Unless he falls asleep at your feet. Then you either walk on the couch to get around him or wait for him to wake up.

His other main quirk is his aversion to hard surfaces in the house. He prefers the carpet. As much as wants to follow you, he won't come, it's too long of a stretch without carpet.

The first time I watched him eat, I was so puzzled, until I remembered the carpet thing. 

Eating on the carpet

And when he's ready for a walk, you let him out the door by his food dish and he walks outside to the other door to meet you, because his people neglected to put carpet in the kitchen.

Waiting for his walk

It's sad to think about how traumatic a life he had as a racing dog. Construction noise scares him, so he wears a thunder shirt and scarf during construction hours to help with his anxiety.

but some days it's worse and we find him hiding in the closet. 

But with all his quirks he's quick to remind you that he's a very sweet dog who just wants to be loved.

"You can pet me now"

By the end of the week we had a new friend, but don't tell the neighbors!

"Beware of Dog"

Italy is everywhere!

A dopo.