I've only just noticed this thread and would like to add something. I've seen Pongo with other dogs on our regular SW walks, sometimes as many as eight. He interacts well with other dogs, plays with the normal labrador exuberance, and I've never seen him show aggression. He sometimes tramples other dogs when chasing a tennis ball, but a 40kg Lab can't be expected to turn on the spot! OH and I went to that doggie daycare when we lived near Rosie as we needed to leave Holly for a day. In the end we decided to leave her with an overnight carer for 24 hours. Our worry was that a quiet dog like Holly would be overwhelmed by the number of dogs that they had. I agree that the problem is not Pongo but the number of dogs that the daycare centre accepts. I wonder if they've have problems with other "aggressive" dogs?
Just out of curosity I left my dogs for a while and peeked at them they sleep deep happy sleeps when I'm not there. When I'm there we do stuff and then they have a short nap and we do some more. My OH also reports that they just relax contetedly when not around they have khongs and chews but prefer a snooze. They seem to have a settle routine which they like, they seem to be happy and content. I sure you will find a routine which Pongo likes better. We are told that dogs need social interaction and stimulation but sometimes a relaxed rouitne with no suprises and the chance of a good nap seem to do them more good. I think what i,m trying to say is that Pongo is a gentle sensitive soul who doesn't need the hassle of a busy dog daycare.
just to add more of the same. I had my two at day care. Loads of dogs, Free running style as I didnt know better! Neither of them liked it, Cuilli did at first but gradually got reluctant to go. Brods never really wanted to go. Cuilli developed issues with groups of dogs running, still has them, so I took them both out. I worried loads that they would be unhappy on their own for 4-5 hours a day while i was at work, I can say quite categorically they much prefer it! they get couple hours walkies before i go to work and some training, and we do loads of stuff together when Im not at work. they are a very happy, health pair. They sometimes do a six hour stint at home ( maybe one day every 3 months) and they are completely fine!
