Don’t let their age fool you! As they are smaller dogs, they still have a zest for life and will still keep you on your toes. Their energy level is still well-suited for walks around the neighborhood and possibly even to try out hiking. (That would require a bit more socialization and time to experience the outside world as they spent the majority of their life with their senior owner in his home.)
They’re inseparable, and have lived a rather sheltered life in the kitchen and backyard of their previous owner. They are super affectionate and cuddly, and yet undersocialized with folks and other dogs. They loved their owner and he loved them very much. The dogs loved their owner by being great “watch dogs” and by telling him whenever there were people around the home. They are great fun to watch and to love on as they are sweethearts.
Toby is a barker, but he is also so sweet and peaceful when he feels safe. He will nip at strangers, or if he is asked to do something he isn’t ready for. His current foster learned to let him show her what he likes/doesn’t like, and she tries to work around that. He is really mindful of the foster’s commands now because he has come to trust her lead. Bella is a little standoffish, but also very loyal and affectionate once she gets to know you.
Toby can nip when threatened; he is so tiny, and guards his space like a fierce warrior. It’s easy enough to learn what triggers his nipping habit: just don’t do something that scares him! He is responsive to bribes (treats) and loving attention. He loves to jump up and be held in your lap, and curls up like a little baby when he gets there. He will tell you what he wants and doesn’t; it’s pretty easy to work round the nipping once he knows you. He doesn’t like to be handled at the neck unless it’s when he’s curled up in your lap.