Age: 14 weeks Gender: Male Color: Black/White Weight: 18 lbs. Variety: Field-Bred Carl has had a bit of a hard start in life. The only thing we know of his past is he was locked in a crate most of the time, and then wound up in a shelter where he was rescued. Carl is a very relaxed Springer for only being a fourteen-week-old puppy. He is making strides in his new foster home every day. Upon arrival this guy was shy, scared and downright timid. By the end of the first weekend he was bounding around with the resident Springer and acting like this is his home. He is not fully housetrained, but he seems to learn fast. Although he spent so much time in a crate he doesn't seem to mind be confined there when necessary, he might whine for a minute or two, then he lays down and goes fast asleep…even to be found on his back with his legs in the air! At only 18 lbs, he is small, and seems a little weak from not being properly fed or exercised, so he tires very easily right now, but that will most likely change with his better nutrition and care! He gets along well with kids of all ages from toddlers to teens, and seems to love them as much as they do him. The foster home's three-year old boy named him, and they became fast friends. Carl walks well on a leash (even with the little kids!), and just loves people. He is a great protector too, as he will bark at new people that enter the yard, but once properly greeted, he just melts at their feet. He loves to chew on sticks and play fetch. He is really good at retrieving the ball and bringing it to you. Carl and the resident Springer, who is 7 months old, get along GREAT. True Springer style, he won't leave his Foster Mom's sight or side. He needs a family that will give him the love, exercise, and attention he deserves. And he will reward you with snuggles and puppy kisses. He will be a great companion for anyone after some basic obedience is established. Update 23 JUL 2007:Carl visited the vet for the first time and did great. The vet estimated him at about 14 weeks, a little younger than we first thought. He is heartworm negative and is up to date on his shots. The vet said overall he is a healthy, beautiful little puppy. He has made strides in the two weeks he has been in foster. Not only has he gained 4 pounds in 2 weeks, but he can keep up for a mile walk, which happens daily. He has developed a great friendship with the resident Springer and they play great. We are still working on the housetraining and he does well, but needs to be let out a lot when not crated .