Caliber

Caliber is a Miniature Doberman Pinscher that I adopted in June of 2002 at the tender age of four months. She was given up by her previous owner when she realized she didn’t have the time to devote to raising a new puppy. When animals are relinquished by their owner, they can be put up for adoption immediately. So I took her home that very same day and she never had to stay overnight in hard concrete pen.

We had many hurdles to overcome at first. As with any puppy, housetraining was an issue that we worked through. When it’s time to go out, she will go to the door and start spinning in circles to let me know. She used to be timid around strangers and untrusting. I think she prefers animals to people. But with proper socialization, she now she loves to have company over and even begs for a belly rub.

I named her Caliber because her energy level is high-caliber. She was a very tiny puppy so I knew she wouldn’t grow very big. She only weighs six pounds today! Her small stature made her an ideal playmate for my Toy Fox Terrier, Ricochet, who weighs in at five and a half pounds.

Even though we have a fenced yard to run and play in, we all enjoy evening walks around the neighborhood and occasional trips to the off-leash dog park. For a real treat, I take them to visit the farm where I grew up. The last couple of miles are gravel roads so Caliber knows when we are getting near and can hardly contain herself. She starts dancing around the car and whining with anticipation. She loves the freedom to roam and explore.

Caliber definitely keeps me laughing with her hilarious antics and acrobatic energy. She is highly intelligent and I’ve taught her several words. No cats reside with us but she is very fond of them. If you say the word ‘kitty” or make a “meow” noise, she starts searching the room for him. Just ask “where’s the bunny” and she does a leaping bunny imitation across the yards. People like to have us over because Caliber does the vacuuming for them. She scavenges the floors in search of crumbs and food morsels.

Because of her delicate size, Caliber is strictly an indoor dog but loves to sunbathe on the patio. I installed a doggie door so she can come and go freely but only when I’m home to supervise. She takes her guard dog duty seriously and rules her territory. Caliber can be pretty persistent when she wants something and is also very needy – needs constant attention!

Her favorite spot in the house is buried deep beneath the comforter on the bed. Her favorite food is Doritos (or any kind of chips). She goes nuts when you crinkle the bag. She’s not very interested in toys unless they contain food. Everyday, she enjoys a kong toy at breakfast and a treat ball for dinner. Cailber gives kisses on command and is absolutely lovable. She has truly stolen my heart.

Julie Faust

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