Trout has standards. He does not rush into relationships.
He somehow manages to be ridiculously handsome and adorably awkward at the exact same time. When you first meet him, he can be a little reserved. He simply prefers to conduct a brief background check before handing over full access to his heart.
His screening process is fairly straightforward.
Are you kind? Do you have treats? Can you be trusted to provide additional treats when the original treats have mysteriously disappeared? Will you tell him he is handsome with the frequency and enthusiasm he deserves?
Excellent. Your application is moving forward.
Because once Trout decides you are one of the good ones, the entire operation changes.
The cautious little gentleman disappears and suddenly you have a goofy, affectionate shadow following you around, asking for attention and behaving as though the two of you have been best friends for years.
Trout also LOVES other dogs. A confident canine friend would be especially wonderful for him. Another dog helps remind Trout that new people, new places and new experiences aren’t nearly as intimidating as they initially appear. Basically, he would appreciate having a more outgoing coworker assigned to orientation.
We are beginning to suspect Trout’s whole shy guy routine may actually be an elaborate marketing strategy.
Step one: Act mysterious.
Step two: Make someone work slightly harder for your affection.
Step three: Reveal that you are actually an enormous softie.
Step four: Watch them become completely obsessed with you.
Frankly, it is working. The only problem is that Trout is still waiting for someone to take him home.
He doesn’t need someone who expects him to walk through the door and immediately perform a one dog welcome parade. He needs someone willing to give him a minute. Sit with him. Hand over a few treats. Let him decide you’re safe.
Because earning Trout’s trust is not the difficult part. The difficult part is figuring out how nobody has scooped him up already.
Some dogs give everyone their heart immediately. Trout makes you earn his.
And somehow, that makes being chosen by him feel even better.