Originally posted by WPRESTO 
Dahlia has very big paws to fill, as Tralee was inexplicably special to us. M and I both think and comment: "Tralee would have handled that" or "She doesn't have (this or that) good trait that Tralee had." For example, she's had trouble learning the doggie door, as she is more timid than T and gets spooked if the door sticks the tiniest bit, but she is progressing. T had years of training behind her when she passed, so when commanded to "down" she'd literally throw herself to the ground. Dahlia is just starting to understand that command. Dahlia is her own dog with her own lovable traits. She's very laid back and undemanding, happy to sleep peacefully on the floor at any time and incredibly trusting as she has no problem with being whisked off the floor and dumped tummy up on my lap, and in fact wants to get onto my lap more than T did. Dahlia has already endeared herself to us, but Tralee will always be sainted because of the time in our lives that she shared and the way that she did.
It is difficult to not compare pets, especially if one is 'filling the shoes' of another. We were spoiled with Daisy, despite her being a rescue, she's got a good manner (though a little noisy at times and with an insatiable prey-drive), is fantastic with kids, other dogs, happy to run up and say hi to anyone/anything etc. When we got Mabel, we noticed immediately how much more tentative she is, easily spooked as you describe Dahlia to be. Similarly, she's happy to lie down anywhere, loves attention and fuss whereas Daisy is more independent. Fortunately, they're both supremely soft natured and fantastic with children despite having very little interaction with them.
Same happened with my parents after the loss of their Toy Poodle. Charlie (previous) was very mum my Mam's dog, acted as her shadow, always with her regardless of setting or situation. Their new dog, Henry, is far happier to spread the love and always has a waggy tail for people coming through the door and that suits my parents more than having a dog solely attached to one person above all others.
I'm glad Dahlia is settling in nicely and bonding with you well.
Post #14026 by mattb123
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