Nell

Nell is an affectionate cocker spaniel who would love the opportunity to snooze and snuggle all day. At seven years old Nell is discovering that the world can be safe, soft and cozy – three of her favourite things! Nell is 10.5 kg with a petite stature, beautiful light copper colouring and a sprinkling of freckles. The name Nell means ‘light and brightness’ and with her sweet personality, she definitely brings these traits anywhere she goes.

Nell started her life as a breeder in a puppy mill and this has made her a bit uncertain of unknown items and noises (snow shovels, buses etc.) but she is adjusting and becoming more comfortable every day. Nell will do best with a calm family who can be patient with her as she continues to open up to new people and surroundings. She has become an expert at sussing out the most comfortable spots in the house and closely acquainting herself with them. She loves couches, beds, comfy chairs and even a pile of laundry will do. Nell’s tail was docked but that doesn’t stop her from wiggling her bum to let you know how happy she is once she’s found a comfy spot.

Nell likes being outside but isn’t the type of dog who wakes up and has to get out the door right away. She would be fine in a home with a backyard or a condo/townhouse with more limited outdoors space. It’s unknown if Nell has spent time in the snow before this winter but she has taken to it instantly. She loves to bury into snowbanks and roll around in fresh powder. Nell has taken to walking on leash and has been enjoying neighbourhood walks twice a day. While she is always happy to be outside, she is equally happy to get back inside out of the cold. She will benefit from further leash practice as she continues to discover new sights and smells. 

Nell was a bit slow to find her appetite so training has been limited as treats weren’t necessarily a great motivator. As she’s continued to decompress, treats are becoming more interesting and she’s showing an interest in learning. She is working on ‘sit’ and ‘shake a paw’, but will need a family who continue to train her. She has so much affection to give, she will sometimes stand and put her front paws up on you, so she will need reminders about her manners. Nell is fine with being brushed and will tolerate the bath. She will require regular professional grooming to maintain her coat, including weekly brushing and consistent ear cleaning to prevent infections due to her floppy silky ears. 

House training came very naturally to Nell despite no previous experience with it. Sticking to a routine of twice daily walks around the neighbourhood helps her avoid any accidents. While she’s a good walker she does sometimes find it a bit challenging to not be distracted by the snowbanks and the opportunities to roll around in the fluffy snow! Nell has also done well on car rides, going for both short and longer rides without challenges. 

Nell continues to become comfortable with her crate; she will go in without complaint and is usually very quiet, but if she knows someone is home, she won’t hesitate to let you know she’s close by for a snuggle. She can manage overnight and daytime stretches, but she would always rather be on the comfy couch, when allowed. When letting Nell out of her crate, the first thing she wants to do is give you a hug. She’ll put her paws out and climb up onto your lap, asking for affection before anything else. Nell has the tendency to be a bit of a ‘shadow’ in that she wants to be close by, she will happily nap away in the same room as any activity but will want to move with you if you change locations.

Nell has been fostered in a quiet home with no other pets or kids, but as her confidence has grown, she is showing great interest in meeting both. There have been a few opportunities for her to meet other dogs/cats and young kids and she has been very curious about both. Nell would do best in a home with children over the age of 10 and other pets who can be patient with an enthusiastic new family member who is still learning her manners. Potential adopters will need to consider how they can support her in further socialization and learning proper etiquette for meeting new friends.

Nell is quiet, apart from the occasional vocalizations about her crate, she really doesn’t make a lot of noise. The only (adorable) exception to this is that Nell is a bit of a snorer. You’ll often find her curled up on her choice of comfortable surface making a few snuffling sounds. She is a champion napper and her snores are a lovely reminder of her relaxed presence. She is learning how to play and has been caught trying to sneak socks into her bed for a chew. She reacts very well to having these taken away, but she is still learning that toys can be just as much fun to play with.

Nell is up-to-date on all of her vaccinations and has been spayed. She also had extensive dental work done and as a result had multiple teeth pulled. She has handled all of her vet visits very well and has no problems enjoying her meals now that her mouth is pain free. Potential adopters will need to continue to keep an eye on her dental health.

Nell is a calm and cuddly companion and she’s often found lounging on her back with her paws up in the air, her hushed snores letting you know that she’s completely content. She is a laid back presence who has very quickly mastered the art of relaxation. Between the warm welcomes after her crate time and her ‘shadow’ approach, she has made it clear that she wants to be around people and will give her new family a lot of love.