Coco

Who is Coco?

Coco is a very clever, quirky and endearing 8 year old female Border Collie.  She has medium length black hair with no other visible markings.  

Why did Coco come into the Home?

Coco arrived in to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home as a stray in June 2006.  She has had a long stay with us as she has specific rehoming requirements.  We remain determined to find the right place so she can spend her days of in a caring home.

What is Coco like?

Coco is ultimately an eccentric but very interactive dog. There is no doubt that the owners who take on this girl will be smitten by her communicative nature, her unwavering loyalty and her affection. But there is a cunning side to this girl to get what she wants so firm but fair owners are required. 

As a mature girl who is very set in her ways Coco is largely aloof and wary of new people but once she trusts you she becomes attentive and affectionate. She has a history of overbonding with owners so those interested in rehoming her will have to draw a line between showing the affection she craves and pandering to her every wish.  

Why has Coco been seen by the Behaviour Unit?

Coco has been seen by the Behaviour Unit in the Home due to an unpredictability in her reaction to strangers.  She often growls when approached by strangers, particularly within the home.  This territorial guarding is a status-related issue.  Owners will need clear rules in her new home on how to deal with the frequency and intensity of these reactions.  The Behaviour Unit who has worked with Coco on this issue will advise.

Coco's other behavioural issue is barking for attention. She certainly lets you know when she wants something! Owners will need to recognise and not reinforce this behaviour when it arises.  Furthermore they'll need patience with this issue and they must have realistic expectations on how much they will be able to improve the vocal tendency.

What kind of home is Coco looking for?

A calm home, without many people coming and going, in a semi-rural to rural location would suit Coco best. The proximity of neighbours must be considered due to her tendency to bark.  Coco will need a home with a garden for training and burn-off purposes.   

What kind of owners is Coco looking for?

A multi-carer household will reduce the likelihood of Coco overbonding with any one person.  All members of the home will have to work together to keep a consistent approach to her training and settling in period. 

Coco can meet and socialise with other dogs, but cannot live with dogs as her potential possession and guarding issues would not be pleasant for another dog in the home. Finally Coco cannot live with children but older, sensible, experienced teens will be considered.

I Think I fit that criteria. What should I do next?

Contact a member of the Behaviour team on 02076277884, or email [email protected] and quote the reference 2006/03987.  Coco will need some further training in her new home. To receive advice and guidance regarding this training from the Behaviour Unit staff that have worked with her, potential owners should be prepared to come into the Dogs Home for a minimum of two visits.

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