17/02/2025
One year old Gretel’s journey hasn’t been easy. She and another Doberman were found dumped in Otero County and picked up as strays. It is obvious she had little to no human contact but she is learning to trust and settle into the warmth of her loving foster home. When she first arrived, she was nervous and unsure, spending most of her time by the front door, hesitant to let her guard down. But with patience, love, and a little training, Gretel is beginning to blossom.
Gretel is thoughtful and observant. It may take her some time to warm up, but she’s very sweet. Gretel is still learning that the world can be a safe place. She may bark or growl at her reflection, unfamiliar noises, and dogs, but she’s never aggressive, just cautious. She is still hesitant to allow you to pet her, but she loves if you hold your hand out for her to give you kisses. She doesn’t jump, she is still wary of getting too close to humans, but follows foster mom everywhere. Gretel LOVES seeing foster mom! She gets so happy whether she's in her kennel, or when she was in her area. She started out just thumping her tail but now she full on wiggles her body, shakes her tail, and just goes all out. Foster mom states you can feel her love the minute Gretel hears her coming home or walking by, and it's the best. 🥰😍
There are two older children (13 & 9) and Gretel is warming up to them as well. Foster mom is her primary caregiver, so naturally she is warming up to her much faster but willingly givies the kiddos kisses on their hands, and loves when they talk to her. She gets very upset if she sees a cat, I’m uncertain if she will warm up or not.
She loves a cozy spot of her own (a crate or a quiet corner out of the way of household activity) and likes to go to bed early! She gets little random bursts of happiness and hops and jumps around in excitement. She needs a home where she has an outdoor space where she can explore and take in all the scents and sounds.
Gretel is crate trained, and does very well in the kennel, once she feels safe. She is quiet and goes into her crate of her own free will and very easily when coaxed with bacon bits. She doesn’t love leashes but will allow you to leash her and walk in areas she feels comfortable in. She is a little uncomfortable doing her business outside and needs space from her people to feel comfortable to go – so a decent sized well fenced in yard is a must. She really enjoys finding the perfect spot and loves to smell.
Gretel needs patience and understanding in her new home and the ability to adjust at her own pace. She prefers a calm household with structure and routine. Lastly, someone who will celebrate her small victories—every step forward is a big deal for this girl!