About Graham

Graham is a hero dog. He came to Southwest English Setter Rescue after leading a good Samaritan to a brush fire -- but for all his courage and intelligence, he needs a home and family to call his own. He is 7 years old, smart and spirited and ready for new adventures. Graham is his name, but you might as well call him 'Mycroft,' as he carries some of the traits of Sherlock Holmes's smarter brother. Like the fictional Mycroft Holmes, Graham is a big oaf, and he does have a mischievous streak. He enjoys his indoor time, and for indoor time there's nothing like a few quiet moments and something to chew. Rawhide bones are best, but when he's on a case he might sometimes make do with a readily available pillow or blanket. Even his dog bed can be good for a nibble when he's working through the facts. He's fully house-trained (of course), and with all that thought work, like the other Mycroft he likes to sleep much of the day. Quiet time or no, he already knows the best commands, like 'Want to go out?!' and 'Want a treat?' -- but as a mischievous boy he's also had the chance to learn the old standby: 'NO.' Graham is comfortable on a leash, but he may tug a bit and he will benefit from your guidance. He is confident going out in public places and greets strangers warmly and politely. Graham enjoys sleeping in his crate, and he's far too smart to work himself until fatigue sets in. He routinely puts himself to bed between 7:30 and 9:00PM, and from there he's lights-out until everybody rises at 7:00AM. He likes his outside-time, but he's not physically ambitious, and he could live comfortably in a house with a small yard, or even an apartment. When he's outside he'll bark and chase squirrels (who wouldn't?), but he mostly watches birds and doesn't have a huge prey drive. For Graham, outdoor time is for lying down on the patio in the sun, and easing some part of the day away. Graham is sensitive and sweet and velcro-y towards people, but he has his mischievous side. He will nibble and herd his people, and you'll want to tell him if you're not interested in the Border Collie side of his behavior. He's learned his name, and he'll come when he's called. He's treat motivated and he can be a bit stubborn, but he's smart and you can teach him anything if you have some patience and establish who's boss. He may yelp if you're firm with him -- directing him by the collar or the backside, but that's just him working you over. You're the boss, and he may be smart but you're the boss, and you're SMARTER. He's an eager student and good match for families with pre-teens and teenagers. He is playful towards all kinds of other dogs, and he adapts to new dogs quickly. He's not a bounding prey-Setter, so a yard with a 4-5 ft fence should surely contain him. He's a laid-back boy, and he's good with other dogs and cats. He may be a strong and sturdy dog, but only a picky eater who's happy to have his breakfast augmented with goodies like shredded cheese. After meals or at quiet times, he's happy to settle in for some cuddle and scratch time. Graham already knows the hero's life, but now he'd just love to settle into a routine with a person or people who will guide him and hang out with him as he ponders his family, his home and his new life. Graham is in a foster home near Dallas, TX. He is neutered and current on vaccines. If you're ready for 'the curious incident of the dog in the night-time' -- Graham can be that dog. He'll bark to defend his home, but he's mostly just a calm boy looking for the right home. If you're ready for Graham, then 'the game's afoot!'

Comal County
New Braunfels, Texas 78132