Why Buy From A Breeder?

Elissa Kaminer O'Sullivan said it perfectly in a recent Facebook posting . . .

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  So, I slept on it... and I still feel the same way... so here it goes...
  
  I have been helping a friend find a puppy. She wants a specific breed, for a specific purpose, with a specific temperament. I have found her several responsible breeders who I think would have puppies that would fit all of her criteria. Then she says to me, "I just want you to know that I am not spending $1,000 on a dog. Not when so many need homes." And you know, if that was the end of what she said, and she wanted help finding a rescue dog, I would have been all about helping her. But she is still not opposed to buying a puppy... just not one for $1000. So, at first, it didn't really register what she said, but as I thought about it, I became more and more offended. Because basically what she said to me was that as a responsible breeder, my dogs are not worth any more than Joe-shmoe's down the block... that all the time, effort, and money that I have put into health testing, temperament testing, training, proving, and selecting my dogs for breeding has no value. I have to say, this really got under my skin. Maybe it's because I have driven my girls as far as CA to breed to the most perfect stud dog that I could find... or that I just spent over $2000 on progesterone tests, and I still don't have a litter to show for it... or maybe it's because I have proven my dog's over and over again, and it just plain pissed me off that someone doesn't see the value in that.
  
  So, what do you get for a $1000 puppy? Proven temperament and trainability... mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, and great grand parents for many generations are trained and temperament tested- and they have been to a million dog shows, earning titles to prove it all. Proven health... mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, and great grand parents for many generations have had their hips, elbows, knees, eyes, heart, & thyroid tested, they are clear of all genetic disease that I can possibly know of. They are to breed standard... which may not mean a lot to you, but it should. It's what keeps a Rottweiler from looking like a Black and Tan Coonhound, or a Bernese Mountain dog. It's what maintains structure and soundness, and what makes a breed a breed. You also get me. You get a knowledgeable breeder and expert in your breed. You can call me day or night, and even on holidays. I am there for you through all your joys and frustrations, sickness and health. I will do anything I need to do to make sure that owning one of my puppies is the most wonderful experience of your life. You have the peace of mind knowing that no matter what ever happens to you, your dog, your best friend, has a safe place to live out the rest of his life.
  
  So what about that $400 puppy out of the paper? You get a puppy with unknown temperament, health, and type. You get nothing else. You can potentially get a dog genetically predisposed to fears and aggression, a dog with debilitating health issues, a dog who will never be able to fulfill the goals that you have set out for him. And if you ever needed to return that dog (life can sometimes throw you a curve ball), that person will not take your 5 or 8 or 10 year old dog back... you will be stuck putting your dog up for adoption, or euthanizing him.
  
  So, who's making money? I have never actually figured it out, but I would guess that I lose about $1,000/puppy. I don't breed dogs to make money. I breed dogs because I love my breed and I believe that there are wonderful people out there who should have the opportunity to own wonderful dogs. The person selling the $400 puppy is making a profit of about $350/puppy. That person breeds purely for profit. Oh, I am sure they love their dogs, and their breed, but not enough to be any benefit to anyone other than themselves.
  
  I guess people don't really understand value. It is not about the price you pay, but what you are getting for that price. And in the end, if what you are getting for $1000 is not worth anything to you, then by all means, the $400 puppy is a much better value.
  
  I have not told anyone who I am talking about. She is my friend, and I would like to keep it that way, so please do not guess or spread rumors. And please feel free to share if you agree.

Wishing Away Puppyhood

Last night was Max's "graduation" from Puppy Kindergarten.  He did well, and I was pleased with how much he had learned.  Because our tester is a certified AKC Star Puppy instructor, Max now qualifies for his Star Puppy certificate and medal - once I fill out the signed application we received, and send it to AKC along with $10.00.  It's a good program, and a lot of fun to do.  I enjoyed watching Max's classmates too, a diverse group that included a Golden, a Lab, an Akita, a Frenchie, a Beagle mix, a Schnauzer, and a variety of others.  It was a good class, with happy well-adjusted puppies and committed owners.

It's such fun watching a puppy learn about the world.  Everything is interesting to pups, and they respond with such enthusiasm to life.  I've always enjoyed raising pups and attending puppy classes, and always assume that everyone else does too.  That's not true, of course, as I was reminded last night.  Puppies ARE a lot of work!  While chatting with the nice couple who own the enthusiastic Lab puppy, I mentioned how much fun class had been and how much I enjoyed watching the puppies learn.  Their response was that although they loved their puppy, they could not wait for him to be about three years old, finished with his puppy antics, and all settled down.  Their pup is very like Max, happy, friendly, enthusiastic about everything, and an eager learner who did very well in class.  Seems a shame to wish that away, rather than enjoying it!

Step One Completed

Step One completed, the whole house electrical check up.   The CurrentSAFE electrician worked from 7:00 AM until 4:00 PM, going over every bit of wiring in my house.  Lots of issues uncovered, but the good thing was that nothing was unusual or unexpected, and the current itself was fine, with no hotspots.  Biggest issue will be to replace the main panel and add a few more circuits, putting things like the microwave, window air conditioners, and fish room heater on circuits of their own.   Numerous outlets to be added, as the original part of the house had only one or two outlets per room, rather than at least one per wall.  Some old outlets need to be replaced with grounded outlets, and some existing outlets need to be GFCI outlets (primarily the ones in the kitchen).  This will be expensive, but it needs to be done.  One good bit of news was that the blown in insulation in the attic over the old portion of the house is in good condition - I did that myself, a huge project, and I was afraid the insulation might have settled.  No way would I attempt that job again!

Dogs had a rather boring day as they spent most of it in their crates as they would have had a wonderful time "helping" the electrician.  We made it up to them with long walks in the evening.  Sue took Josie running and I walked Watson for the first time in several years - Ron normally walks Watty.  I was delighted to see how sound and spry Watson was after the tough winter he had.  Really moves well for a dog who will be thirteen years old in 6 weeks.

Next step will be a visit from the original electrician who will go over all the findings with us (again), and price the various items out for us.  THEN we will decide which ones I can afford.  I can't actually afford any of them, but because I am going to refinance my house, I'll roll these costs in.  I know we will do the new panel, and dedicated circuits, and probably all the new outlets.  Might as well get all the damaged outlets replaced too.  Oh heck, might as well do the whole thing.  It's only money.

It's Only Money

Electrician working away, checking out the electrical circuits in this old house.  Dogs are crated to keep them for "helping".  It's gonna be a long day for the spoiled doggies.  All the lights are on, the dishwasher and washing machine are running, the microwave will be too when he gets to that circuit.  There will be some kind of spike in my electrical usage for today!  I have trouble walking through the house without turning off lights - have been trying to reduce my electric bill, and have actually brought it down every month this year (compared to the previous month and year).  The gas, not so much with the nasty weather and Endless Winter.

This is part of my "retirement planning", to get some major projects taken care of now, so I can concentrate on the smaller projects once I retire.  Need to be able to sell this house someday so I'd better get moving.  Lots of "deferred maintenance" to deal with.  What I really need is MONEY.  Oh well, I've survived this many years without much of it.

Step One

Big expenses in my future as I took the first step towards getting my old house rewired.  A visit from the Electrician who did a quick walk-through of my house, and explained the CurrentSAFE program to me.  I signed up for the evaluation, and am scheduled for Wednesday - all day Wednesday.  They will be checking all wiring, outlets, junctions, fixtures, circuit breakers, and things I've never heard of, using a variety of equipment that does not require them to open up or cut into anything (increasing the danger of fire).  All risk spots will be identified and prioritized, we will meet again with the electrician to discuss the findings, and I can  then decide how much I want to replace, change or fix.  No matter what, this is going to be expensive!

It's actually a step toward retirement though, as SOMEDAY I will want to sell this house. but before I do that I need to put some money into it so it will be marketable.  And safe.  Because I am refinancing this spring, it's a good time to take on this project too and roll it into my new mortgage.  I'll never get the house paid off, so I might as well accept that and do some major work on it now.  Besides, I have to live SOMEWHERE.

Gotta start buying lottery tickets or something.

Monday Musing

Wish we had a Holiday called Easter Monday as I am so not ready to go back to work today.  A extra day off would be really nice about now, but no three-day weekends until Memorial Day.

Things will be getting tense at work as our busiest time is approaching and we are losing one of our best workers who just took a job with another State Agency.  Really bad timing for us as it takes forever to hire, and we're not likely to get a new person with skills that will help us anytime soon.  How I wish we had "loyal" employees, but we don't have "loyal" employers, and it works both ways.  Have to decide if I want to work overtime - not the ideal time of year to do it though.  Just glad I don't have puppies planned and am not campaigning a dog.  The person who is leaving is my backup, so when I'm off to the National for a week there will be NO ONE with either the time or the training to do my job.  Should be interesting.

A very nice Easter celebrated with family, following a spectacular Saturday that finally felt like Spring.  Back to cold and windy for a few more days, then some more Spring.  The overnight freeze meant that the pups could do no digging this morning, so the cold was not all bad!

Max will be missing his last night of the PetCo Puppy Class, no big loss.  The class was useful for a bit of extra practice and I don't regret spending the money.  I wish a couple of my classmates would sign up for a "regular" obedience class through a training school, but I suppose if they do any additional training it will be another foo foo class at PetCo.  None of my business, and at least they will get "some" training.  The test on Thursday night will be more fun, and hopefully will qualify Max as an AKC Star Puppy.

Instead of puppy class this evening we will have a visit from an electrician.  We're doing the CurrentSafe program that will detect any hotspots in my wiring - things that could cause fires.  Am SURE I have those as my house is 100 years old and has lots of original knob & tube wiring.  I'll get an estimate to on having my wiring brought up to code, something I will have to do before I sell the house anyway.  Have a feeling that it will be quite expensive, but it's gotta be done.  The joys of owning an old house . . .

Please Wait!

Dear Fern,

Please wait!

Just a little bit longer, say about three weeks.  Is that too much to ask?  It would have been nice if you had already been in season, preferably at about 7 months, but since that didn't happen can you please wait until after the National?  I don't want to travel with you and your grandfather if you're in season - it's just too hard.  You may not show well during that time, and your grandfather most certainly will not!  He's OK about girls going through "difficult times" but keeping him quiet while sharing a motel room with you might be asking a bit much of him.

If you come in season within the next two weeks, someone will be staying home, probably you.

Thanks for your cooperation in this matter.

Sue

Won't Be Long Now!

How can the National be so close?  I am so not ready for this!  Entries in (two days ago), motel reservations made (long ago), vacation requested (even longer ago), car tuned up, new crates purchased, dogs in condition.  That's about it.  What the heck am I going to wear?  Who knows what the weather will be in St. Louis in 2 1/2 weeks.  Might be hot and sunny - or it might be snowing! What to pack?  Warm weather clothes, cold weather clothes, and definitely rain gear!

The National will be at the Purina Event Center in Grey Summit, MO., a wonderful facility.  No motels/hotels within walking distance, so everyone will be driving back and forth unless they are staying in motor homes, as many will be.  The headquarters hotel filled up early and was way too expensive for my taste, so we are staying nearby, at the same motel as some good friends of ours.  Can't wait to meet their gorgeous liver puppy girls, sired by Ch. "Taylor" a long-dead Paisley dog (frozen semen breeding).

Jess and I are taking three dogs this year.  Argus who is entered as a Veteran at the St. Louis Specialty and as a Special at DCA, Fern who will show in Puppy, Sweeps & Futurity, and Gemma who will show in Bred By.  We've had many good DCAs in the past few years, but I don't expect this one to be quite as successful.  Argus won the National a few years back, took Awards Of Merit the next three years, and won the Stud Dog Class four years in a row.  His daughter Penny was Best In Futurity two years ago, and her daughter Meribel was Best Of Winners last year, with an Argus son and daughter also going Best of Breed and Best Of Opposite.

Argus is showing his age a bit now, at least in markings as he has added some ticking.  Still moves very soundly and look great body-wise, and I'm sure he will show well, but he's 7 1/2 years old.  Fern is a nice finishable Dal, but probably not star quality, and doesn't always have her gait "together" yet. Gemma looks great, but what are the odds of her matching her sister's record of last year?  Well, fingers crossed.  If nothing else, I expect to have a good time!

I'll also be looking for a stud dog for Amery (sister to Meribel and Gemma).  She's almost old enough for the rest of her health testing, and then we'll think about breeding her.  Everyone goes to DCA looking for stud dogs!

Why Health Testing?

Why are some breeders still not health testing?   I just don't understand it.  If you truly love a breed, why would you not do everything possible to breed the very best pups?  There are so many great testing options available these days, tests to help us to breed the healthiest puppies in our selected breeds, and avoid passing on inherited health issues.

Testing is not inexpensive, but nothing about raising quality dogs is inexpensive, and health testing is a great investment.  Many breed clubs have set the standards for the most basic tests for their breed, and the dogs who pass those tests are given a CHIC number.  All dogs used for breeding should have a CHIC number, but sadly that is not the case.  For Dalmatians, the CHIC requirements are a BAER hearing test, hip xrays, and EITHER a thyroid panel (not just the simple T3/T4 test) OR eye certification.  These results are registered with OFA (Orthopedic Foundation For Animals) and the results are available on line for other breeders or puppy buyers to view.  Dogs who have completed the testing receive their CHIC numbers.

Additional testing and information include elbow xrays, cardiac exams, patella exams, Degenerative Myelopathy testing (a DNA test), and a complete dentition database, as well as a number of other tests specific to certain breeds, such as tests for Dilated Cardiomyopathy, PRA, and Copper Storage Disease.  New tests are being developed all the time.  Hopefully in the future we will also see valid tests for Epilepsy and Renal Dysplasia, health issues that can affect all breeds.

Although these tests all cost money, they are an investment in the future of our beloved breeds, and money well spent.   If you are looking for a purebred puppy, work with a breeder who health tests all breeding stock.  And remember that mixed breed dogs can have the same genetic health issues as purebreds.

Fun At The Dog Show

Although only AKC shows seem like "real dog shows" to me, there are several other organizations that put on shows.  One of them is the United Kennel Club, a large and active organization that has been in existence for many years.  Their shows are smaller, less formal, include breeds not recognized by AKC, and it's much easier to finish a championship  There are generally two shows held each day, four per weekend.  We didn't have many UKC shows in this area until the past few years, but now there are a number of show weekends throughout the year.

The overall quality is not as high, but the best dogs are often very good indeed. Some of the dogs are already AKC champions, mature, well-trained, experienced showdogs whose owners are just looking to add new titles.  The shows are also a great way for young dogs to get extra ring experience without a lot of expense, AND they give awesome ribbons.  Argus, Pauli & Penny are already UKC Champions, and have also earned UKC Best In Show wins.

Because Fern and I needed more opportunity for practice, I had decided to enter her for one day of the recent show weekend.  Because there are also non-regular class for puppies (wins don't count toward their championships), Max came along too.  He'd never gaited on a showlead before, and was used to stacking only on a table, but he's a quick study and will do almost anything for food.

Fern visited the chiropractor on Thursday because I was concerned with her pacing, and the doctor felt Fern had sustained a minor back injury that was causing a problem with tight muscles.  She gave me some stretching exercises to do.  The exercises seemed to help because Fern moved a lot better.  More importantly, she was brave and friendly, stood well for the exam, wagged her tail at both of the judges, and didn't jump on either of them.  Good dog Fern!  She was the only Dal, so automatically went Best Of Breed.  Dals show in the Companion Group, where she went Group 2nd at the first show (behind a lovely Bulldog), and Group 1st at the second.  Even better dog, Fern.  No idea how many points she won, but we only showed the first day and will wait awhile before doing any more UKC shows.

Little Max showed like a star.  I was amazed at how well he moved on a showlead, and of course he was very friendly on the exam.  Both judges were extremely complimentary about Max, and I was very proud when he went Best Puppy in Show.  Good boy, Max.  Great start and he had a wonderful time.

Time Out

Endless Winter is getting me down.  Too many cloudy days, too much cold, and far too much ice.  So tired of icy roads, icy sidewalks, icy deck, icy dog yard.  I haven't slipped and gone down yet (knock on wood) but this isn't over yet.   Yesterday I absolutely could not stay at work.  I felt like crap, gloomy, aching, hot & cold.  Ugh.  Coming down with something, or just "down"?

Later in the afternoon I just had to get out and walk in the sunshine.  For the first time I appreciated Daylight Savings Time.  Packed up Argus and Fernly, and headed off to Hidden Falls Park.  Only one other car in the parking lot, so I let both dogs off lead, and we headed down the path, Argus carefully sniffing each tree and snow mound to "see" who had been there before us, and Fern running in joyous circles.  I forgot my boots, but "someone" had come through with equipment of some sort and flattened out a walking path that was not yet slippery.  Hooray!

Off through the woods we went, dogs leading the way.  New dogs up ahead and I called Fern back, but Argus could not be called off as he considers it his job to meet and introduce himself to all new dogs.  Some things never change.  Two friendly Labradoodles and their friendly owner, so we let the dogs play together.  One was a 9-month old pup, so he and Fern had a fantastic time playing dog games in the snow.  The owner and I discussed how lucky we were to have the park to ourselves this time of the year, and how much safer it was than dog parks.   Her older dog had had some bad experiences at dog parks, so I told her about the one we enjoy and feel safest in.

I came home with two tired but happy dogs, and feeling much better.  Thanks guys!

Spring. Yeah Right

First day of Spring and the thermometer says 5 degrees, and the weatherman says the windchill is much lower than that.  He also notes that this is the coldest first day of Spring since 1965.  I could say,  "Global Warming, where are you when we need you?", but I know this summer will be incredibly hot, and probably also very dry.  Climate Change is upon us, and the weather is messed up everywhere.  A foot of snow due on the East Coast, and we could have another snow storm this weekend.  Other parts of the country are already baking.  We've really messed up this planet, and things will only get worse.

Puppy Classes

Max and I are attending two different puppy classes, not because he needs them, but because I was interested in comparing the two classes, and because it's a way to get him out in the winter.  (That's Max on the way home from class last night, when he pushed open his unlatched crate door and had his way with a roll of paper towels.)

One is a pet store class, taught by a trainer educated in the pet store training methods, just a dog owner who owns pets and works in a pet store, although her sister shows dogs.  She's definitely better than your average pet store dog trainer.

The other class is taught by a dog person, someone who shows in breed, obedience, and agility, and is a member of a national dog trainers group.

The classes both use modern methods, and reward-based training, no corrections, no chain collars, lots of treats, and they have similar goals - a happy pup who can do a Sit, Down, Stand, Recall, Stay for a short period of time, and walk reasonably well on lead.  Both classes include a Puppy Playtime.  Both classes last for 6 weeks, consist of weekly one-hour sessions, and cost approximately $100.00.   That's where the similarity ends.

The pet store class consists of 5 pups, one trainer, and the ring is a portable thing about 10 by 15 feet.  The flooring is the store's regular tile, slippery when pups are playing.  The other class is held in a dog training facility, the class is limited to 15 pups with two trainers (the second trainer is also an experienced dog trainer), and the non-skid flooring is safer for pups.  In the pet store class recalls are limited by the size of the 15 foot ring, and walking on leash is through the store with the distraction of customers, dog treats, birds, ferrets, and food.  The dog school class has the large enclosed ring ring for longer recalls, and lead walking.  The pups are also exposed to tunnels and low jumps, just for fun, to keep the class interesting.

The pet store class is fine for socializing pups as long as there are no aggressive dogs in the class, but is far too small for the Shepherd/Lab mix.  The dogs are learning to sit, down, and stand, but the lack of space makes recalls rather useless.  We sit on chairs for much of the class, and listen to pet care tips, some of which I want to question or challenge, but I don't.  One trainer for 5 dogs works well, and everyone gets plenty of time, but it's tough to work your pup when the dogs on both sides want to sniff him, or engage in a barking match, and there's no way you can get away.

The training school class is more interesting for the dogs, and I find Max pays attention better because we stay busy, and have more space.  Recalls are much easier to work on when you can call your pup from further away, and it's easier to find a place to work your pup without being nudged by another dog.

Four weeks completed in the pet store class, fourth lesson coming up at the training school class.  Stay tuned.

Not A Cheeseburger Weekend

For the past few years, most of our dog show weekends have required a stop for cheeseburgers on the way home.  Cheeseburgers for all (dogs especially!) to celebrate successful show weekends.  This tradition started when Argus was being campaigned and his "other mother" Ginger suggested the cheeseburgers.  It became a tradition for us, and is now used for show weekends, or when one of Argus's kids or grandkids has a nice win somewhere.  Many dog show friends have picked up the habit, and often post to Facebook about Cheeseburger Weekends.

Because we don't show very often, and generally pick our judges pretty carefully - it's a lot cheaper that way - most of our show weekends have been pretty successful.  This one was not, at least not in terms of wins.  Gemma was Reserve one day, and Fern did nothing.  We tried two elderly judges who we have liked in the past, but one of them had gotten pretty "iffy", so we knew it was risky. BUT the girls needed an outing before the national, and we needed a dog show weekend.  Gemma does not live with us (she's co-owned) so Jess does not have the opportunity to work with her the way she would her own dog.  It also gave us a chance to visit with friends, and be sure that Fern would be a good traveler for DCA.  There's nothing worse than sharing a motel room for a week with a dog that drives you crazy!

Both girls passed with flying colors.  Gemma showed well both days, actually better than she did winning the 5-point major her last outing, and is a perfect traveling companion.   Fern was great in the car, at the place we stayed, and at the dog show.  Not barky, perfect in her crate, and she tried to be as good as a wild 9- month old can be.  Fern and I worked out some gaiting issues, I HOPE, and I know what I have to work on with her before the National.  Because I have not raised and shown a class dog since Argus was a pup, my handling skills have suffered a great deal - showing wild pups is NOT like riding a bicycle.  Handling a dog is all about timing, and anticipating the dog's actions.  I didn't read Fern very well, and screwed her up both days.  I'd say she showed better than I did!

We were also disadvantaged by having dogs that looked "different", which is often the problem at small or moderate sized shows.  Most of the competition was lower on leg, heavier in bone & body, and had handpainted spotting.  Fern & Gemma are high stationed, narrower, shorter backed dogs, and neither is particularly well marked.  At Indy where both girls did well, the entry was much larger, and included other dogs similar in type to Gemma and Fern.  We just looked out of place.  Fern would not have won had she shown perfectly, and Gemma did everything right but was just "wrong" for the competition.  So be it.

We had a wonderful time with our hosts Zack and Maryla, their dogs (two liver Paisley Dals), a Peke, a Himalayan cat, and an incredibly entertaining parrot.  We went to a Barbecue place on Saturday night and had a blast, as well as the best barbecue sauce I have ever eaten.  Fun at the shows with Fernly's "grandmothers", and friends from Oklahoma and Kansas.  Jess and I watched the Groups and Best in Show on Saturday and got our "dog show fix".

Despite the iffy weather reports, traveling was fine, and we got home in record time.  Jess dropped off Gemma, I picked up Max (who was staying with Gemma's family) and there was till time to celebrate St. Paddy's Day with Corned Beef and Cabbage!

Maybe it WAS a Cheeseburger Weekend - it was successful in many ways!

Missing - Spring!

Ah, spring flowers!  In a vase.  That's about the only place we will be seeing them for some time to come.  The Daffodils on the east side of the house are about 2 inches tall, but with the possibility of a lot of snow next week, things are not looking good for them.  The tulips in the front flower beds are still buried under several inches of ice and snow . . .  After many years of early springs, we take that for granted.  We expect spring in March. A real old-fashioned winter is NOT appreciated.  We're even above normal for precipitation this year, which is a good thing, and it's nice to see that the level of the Mississippi is looking more normal.  It looked for awhile as if we would soon be able to walk across the river - and I don't mean on ice.

We're off to Kansas City for dog shows this weekend, weather permitting.  We've endured some really lousy weather in years past, just hope we can quickly drive out of the snow predicted for this area tomorrow.  As of yesterday, it was supposed to be 76 in KC on Friday - but of course much colder for the weekend.  We were hoping for a little Spring Vacation, but I guess it is not happening.

It appeared as if Fern would have her act together for this weekend.  She worked well at handling class and has been moving much better, trotting rather than pacing.  Until last night when she looked as if she was trying to trip herself as she paced down the street - and a few days before she was trotting 90% of the time.  Not sure if she is uncoordinated because of her age, long legs, and bad footing (too much ice this winter) or if she has actually pulled a muscle playing on that ice.  She's not lame, just not moving the way she should be able to move.  Guess a trip to the Chiropractor is in order for next week, and hopefully I can get her moving correctly this weekend.  She looks lovely otherwise.  Always something.

Argus babies due in Alabama!  The chilled semen breeding worked this time, when it was handled by a Reproductive Specialist in Atlanta.  Timing is so important using chilled semen, and because the semen is so fragile, it has to be handled properly.  The first attempt, done by a local Vet, was not successful, but this time the bitch owners got serious and it paid off.  Although I always offer a repeat when a breeding misses, it's a lot of time and trouble to do that.  So much better to put the time and money into doing it right the first time. Can't wait!    

Endless Winter, Going Crazy

Enough already, Mother Nature.  I give up!  Send us some sunshine and warm temperatures to melt all the darned ice and snow.  We've had enough.  Although I actually enjoy winter, I've enjoyed it for long enough this year.  Yes, winter used to last into March here, but for the past decade or two winter has been on the way out by March.  This year Ma Nature seems to be determined to give us a real old-fashioned winter.  You win!  I give up!  You are in control!  Can we compromise?  At least send us some sun!

Hard to imagine that we'll be able to go coursing on March 30th, as planned.  A trip to KC this weekend for dog shows might help my frame of mind.  Supposed to be 70 on Friday, mid-60s there on the weekend - and then perhaps snow here on Monday. . . 

Too Damned Ealry

Oh how I hate the first first days of Daylight Savings Time!  It will be nice to have enough daylight to run Fern at the campus after dinner, but it's sure no fun in the morning.  The dogs agreed.  Josie met me at the gate, ready to go out and check for rabbits, but none of the others were impressed with the idea of getting up so early.  If Argus had been bathed the night before, he would be ready for a dog show, but since that did not happen he was not inclined to get out of bed.  Just opened one eye, said "you've GOT to be kidding" and went back to sleep.  Even the pups took a bit of time to wake up and switch to Play Mode.
Watson just blew me off.  Outdoor duties done, they all went back to bed.  I'm not so lucky.  16 months to retirement!

This was one of my last quiet weekends for awhile, and I took advantage of it.  Got lots done around the house and had great fun with the dogs.  Time for some cute pictures of the pups, and a terrific

walk with Argus & Fernly.  Saturday rained, drizzled all day, but Sunday was cloudy but pleasant and fine for hiking.

Max continues to do well.  Such a smart, co-operative pup.  He's settled into our household routine very easily and is so much fun, plus he continues to look very promising.  Saw pictures of his sisters Britt and Piper (was Sanka) and they look very good too.  Jana sends lots of cell phone pictures of Melitta who also seems to be growing up very nicely.  Max's adult teeth incisors are all in, and

his mouth looks good.  Always nice to get that out of the way.  One of my first Dal litters had a number of pups who went undershot, so I never take good bites for granted, although Argus has always done good bites.  So far.

Fern went along on a pet shop visit and did well, acting very sensible and mature.  Hopefully she will do the same at dog shows this weekend!  She looks very good, but needs to add a pound or two this week, since she has a bit of a Greyhound look to her right now.  She's started marking, so hopefully comes in season soon.

Fern and Argus had fun at Hidden Falls Park, and Fern decided that it was definitely warm enough to splash in the water.  I kept her away from the river, but she enjoyed running up and down a small stream.  Argus thought she was nuts.  He prefers it to be a bit warmer for swimming.  We had the park to ourselves, so both dogs were off leash.  Really enjoy these two, my hiking buddies.

When A Mutt Is Not Enough

If you prefer mixed breeds, or always adopt from rescues, that is your right.  If you prefer to purchase a puppy from a responsible breeder, you should also have the right to do that.  Some people prefer to have a dog with a known background, sold by a breeder who will be there to help them through the inevitable problems that go with puppyhood.

Breeders who put years of work and thousands of dollars, not to mention all that WORK into their breeding program, should never have to apologize for producing beautiful, sound, healthy, friendly pups and placing them in wonderful homes.  People who wish to purchase a well bred dog should NEVER be forced to apologize for not adopting a rescue.  Some people want more than a mutt from a questionable background, and some homes have both.  It's their choice to make.

Grandpups

It's such fun having Grandpups, especially when they are in show or performance homes.  Someone else does all the work, and we can share the fun of the wins!  This is Ramsay, who was Mancini in the Louie/Pauli litter.  His ring debut was quite exciting, as  he went Best of Winners for 2 points the first day, and Best of Winners for a 3-point major the second day.  Nice start for a not-quite-9-month old boy!  He was a lovely pup, probably the best pup in the litter from an early age.

Ramsay is a littermate to our Fernly, who also started off her show career well, but has no points yet.  Fern won two big Puppy Classes, and also went Best Junior in Sweeps both days at the Indie Specialties, defeating over a dozen other pups, most of them more experienced than she was.  Fern's next outing will be in Kansas City next week, and then on to the National.  I just wish she would come in season NOW, rather than around the time of DCA, as I really don't like to travel with and show girls in season, and if she's in for the National, either she or Argus will be staying home - and that would break Argus' heart!

This is Gemma, the 4th-to-be-shown from the Cruise/Penny (Penny is an Argus daughter) litter.  Gemma lives in a co-ownership home and is shown by my daughter.  Heather and her family have a great pet and we have one more excellent show dog.  Gemma is pictured winning a 5-point Specialty major, and will be going with us to the National in April.  Her littermates finished with wonderful records and brother Ellsworth is one of the top Dals in the country already this year, although he's too young to be heavily campaigned yet.  But next year?  Penny was just bred to Cruise again for a repeat performance. Lots of good homes waiting, so perhaps more Grandpups to cheer for next year.

I'm REALLY looking forward to the Argus/Holly pups being old enough to show!  Max continues to look good, and the shots I have seen of Mel & Piper (was Sanka) look very nice too.  Haven't seen any of Britt for awhile, so curious to see how she's doing, and Piper's owner promises stacked shots of her soon.  Jess and I will attempt to get stacked pictures of Max this noon.  Lucy (was Gevalia) and LuLu (was Vittoria) were sold as pets and will be spayed, but we'd love to see Gelert (was Folgers) try a few dog shows - he's a lovely, lovely pup.  He was sold as a pet, with no strings attached, so it's up to his owners.

Can't remember that I have ever had more fun with a litter than I did with the Argus/Holly pups.  An easy breeding, a reasonably easy whelping, a very good mama, beautiful healthy pups with great temperaments, gorgeous pups to keep, and wonderful homes for all.  It doesn't get any better than that - wish all litters went as smoothly!  Having lost a whole litter to herpes, had another that was half deaf, and yet another with temperaments that did not totally satisfy me, I was due for a "dream litter" and this was it.  Raising pups is SO MUCH WORK, but such fun when it goes right. 

All About Josie

Ah c'mon you guys, cut me some slack here!  1171 posts over the past couple of years and now I get badgered for missing a couple of days?  And this is not my first blog either!  There's another one out there that's equally long, plus a couple of short ones too.  The first one covered Josie's litters and was my beginner blog, another covered raw feeding but was too much work to maintain.  The third covered Boji's litter, co-bred with Tom.  This one is ongoing, with very few gaps of more than a couple days unless I was "on vacation" which generally means a dog show.  Vacation, what a concept!  Maybe I will take a real one again some day!

That's Josie in the picture.  She'll be 10 this summer and the picture was taken 8 or 9 years ago.  Josie was sired by Watson's brother Peter, and spent the first 10 weeks of her life in a kennel situation, getting minimal time and attention because the breeder was off tending a dying relative. She was pretty under-socialized when she arrived, but went on to have a nice show career.  I almost didn't buy Josie because of they way she was raised, but I'm very glad I did.  She's an excellent companion and we love her dearly.  She's Ron's special dog and moved right into Coral's spot in his heart.

Josie was bred twice, but none of her kids became stars, at least not in the show ring.  She produced tall dogs and a lot of patches in each litter.  A daughter from her first litter was pointed, but when her owner died of cancer the husband just kept her as a pet.  A lovely liver girl from the second litter went undershot, and several of the boys (and one of the girls) got too tall to show.  BUT, her kids are wonderfully athletic dogs with sensational personalities and their owners continue to rave about them - and isn't that really the most important thing anyway?

Although Josie lives with us, her heart belong to her friend Sue who often stops by to take Josie running.  They go on nature hikes, and to dog parks, pet stores, and other fun places.  Sue lives in an apartment and can only keep cats, but she loves dogs too, so her friendship with Josie works well for both of them.  Josie has very high prey drive and loves hunting rabbits and squirrels when Sue takes her running. Her second favorite thing is catching a Frisbee.   Josie, Argus, and Meribel are entered in a Coursing event in two weeks and Sue will be running Josie, trying for a 3rd leg on her Coursing Title.  Stay tuned!  

Boys Or Girls

Many years ago I did an informal survey on one of the Dal Lists.  The question was "if you could have just one dog, would it be a male or a female?"  I asked this of people who had experience owning both sexes.  The response was that about 2/3 of them would own a male.

Max had his puppy class last night and we had so much fun.  He's a terrific little guy and I'm just crazy about him, but is it because he is from such a wonderful litter, or is that enhanced by the fact that I have always preferred male dogs?  Decided to do a Facebook question and ask the same question.  Lots of responses already, and again about 2/3 of them, if they could only have one dog, would choose a male.

However, just as in my previous survey, most of the respondents are women.  Does that make a difference? My ex-husband, as well as my current partner, have both been more strongly attached to the resident female dogs.  I guess if one was to do a serious survey, that would have to be taken into account!

The picture is my two girls, Josie and Fernly, both of whom I dearly love - but I still prefer the boys.

Education

I recently did some emailing back and forth with a person who supposedly wanted a rawfed puppy for Agility and Tracking, but did not want dewclaws removed and did not want to neuter or microchip.  He wanted me to select a baby pup for him and not remove the dewclaws because he felt Agility and Tracking dogs needed dewclaws.  Did not want a microchipped pup because his Vet supposedly told him that chipping "caused cancer".  Did not want to have to neuter for the same reason.  Explained to him that I would not do that because I wouldn't know at 3 days of age which pup might be his.   Also gave him the email address of friends who do serious Tracking and Agility so they could explain to him that dogs do not need dewclaws for either.  I also questioned whether his Vet had actually told him those things.  I will back off on neutering IF I am comfortable with the buyer, but this was not a buyer I felt comfortable with.  His "requirements" were strange, and I found it hard to believe him.

Got an email this morning to tell me that he didn't need to contact my friends because he found a "breeder" who did not remove dewclaws and didn't require neutering.  Yes, I'm sure he did.  There are plenty of them out there.  They were perfectly happy to take his money and sell him a pup with no strings attached.  You do what you can to educate, but it's often not worth the effort.

The Family Pack

We find our "family pack" endlessly entertaining.  The interaction among the dogs is so much fun to watch, and the pack dynamics are fascinating.  Because we have dogs of varying ages, and have other dogs that come and go (co-owned dogs we're showing) the structure is always evolving.  The idea of a Pack, with an "alpha style" leader has actually been replaced with the idea of a family of dogs living together, and that's really what we've observed over the years.

We've tried to breed dogs who live peacefully with one another.  I don't want a divided house with males who can't co-exist, or bitches who will try to kill one another.  Those situations exist in many households and are stressful for all concerned. And dangerous for both dogs and people. Some breeds are much more inclined that way, but a lot of it is how the dogs are raised.  There are some Dals who can not live peacefully with others of the same sex, and a few that can not live with other dogs at all, but most Dals can run with most Dals - there are some combinations that just don't work.  Our bitch line has always been wonderful that way, and they always get along with one another, and most of our boys have been amazingly tolerant.  Rob and Morris occasionally had bitches in for breeding at the same time, and there was never any anomosity between the two of them.  Even the Brazilian-bred (from two Paisley dogs) Vicor, who came to us as a two-year-old dog was able to co-exist with Murphy.

Argus was a good fit for us in that regard, and I knew that many of the boys in his pedigree were very good with other dogs.  He moved into a household with two senior males Morris and Sidney, and fit right in, He arrived when Morris, Sid, and Watson were in residence, and has always gotten along with everyone.  Morris and Sid are gone now, but Argus and Watson will even share a chair on occasion.  Now we have Max growing up.  His mother lives in a large family pack that includes several different breeds, and both of her parents are also very good with other dogs.  We anticipate that he will grow up to be a friendly adaptable dog with good social skills, and be able to live peacefully in a multi-dog household.

Fun In The Snow

Fun in the snow.  What a lovely weekend for people and dogs.  A blanket of fresh snow, but with ice melting on the side streets, dry major roadways, sunshine and (relatively) warm temperatures.  The sun actually feels warm now and the birds are starting to sing of spring, while we dream of spring.  As the people in Missouri prepare for another foot of snow, we could actually use more of it, but at least we did not have a brown winter.

A fun weekend for the dogs as Sue picked up Josie for a run on Sunday and Watson is getting longer walks as his foot heals and his limp is becoming less obvious.  Fern went to PetCo on Saturday and then got an off leash run in Hidden Falls Park.  On Sunday Fern and Argus went to the Dog Park where we ran into old friend Cathy and her Dal Bella.  Argus and Bella have known one another since puppyhood, so they had a great time running with Fern while Cathy and I caught up on family things.  I've know Cathy for 40 or more, and although we don't see one another very often, she's the kind of friend where you just pick up where you left off the last time you talked.

Busy weekend for Max as he practiced his lead walking, worked on obedience and show training, and on Sunday got to visit his Grandma.  This was the first time my mom had seen any of the pups from the Coffee Litter, even though she was the one who suggested the theme.  Max was his brave and friendly self, covered my mother with kisses, explore her apartment, and coached beside her walker as we walked the long hallway.  Well not really, he would have gotten run over by the wheels, but he did have fun!  Mom and I did a drive through (excellent burgers at Dairy Queen), parked in the lot to chat and enjoy the sunshine.  Max was perfect in his crate and enjoyed a piece of cheeseburger.  Told him that if he was a winner, he'd get lots more of them.

What a fun pup.  Puppy class starts for him tonight, just the local PetCo class on Monday.  On Thursday we will attend a better class, but might not be able to make it every week - not an easy drive during rush hour.  Max is so smart and such fun to work with - I know we will both enjoy these classes!

No time for editing.  Hope this does not read like gibberish!

Looking Back, Thinking Ahead

Oh, how cute!  While looking for a specific picture on my computer, I came across some puppy pictures of Argus - shots I didn't remember I had. What fun! They were taken when Argus was about the same age his son Max is now.  Such a cute puppy, and the right color too.  Nothing cuter than brownie babies.   If I could change just one thing on Max, I'd make him a handsomely spotted liver.  Then he'd be just perfect.

Well, not really perfect, but perfect for me, and an ever better looking pup, but he's handsome in black too!  Wish he had a bit less color, but the overall pattern is good, and I love the rest of him.  Really pretty shape, with super nice structure and movement, plus a wonderful personality.  He's one of those pups that just makes you smile because he's so cute and always happy.  Just like his dad.

And so it begins.  I sent out a couple of inquiries yesterday, looking for the right liver bitch to lease and breed to Argus later this year.  I'd STILL like a liver Argus kid, and a liver to liver breeding certainly increases my chances.  Although many breeders don't do liver to liver, I've done it quite a few times with good results.  Nikon, the dam of Penny and granddam of all the young liver Paisley stars, is from a liver to liver breeding, and she had an all liver litter bred to Argus.  As long as you're extra careful about spotting and trim, and have buyers for liver pups, it can work out well.  Argus bred to Rosie's Aruba, also liver, produced Best In Show winning Pauli, DCA Best of Breed winner Krash, and several other nice livers, a couple of them gorgeously marked.  I normally have both pet and show homes that would prefer liver, so placing them is rarely a problem.  We'll see what comes of this.

The right liver bitch would have a really good pedigree, preferably with the lines I know match up particularly well with Argus, have all her health testing, and would have a wonderful personality.  Maybe she doesn't even exist, or if she does her owners would never consider this.  No harm in asking though.  Typically breedings are planned for the bitch, finding the right stud dog for her, but I'm doing just the opposite, looking for just the right liver bitch for Argus, because I want a liver Argus kid, and have no one in this line to breed to him.  Eventually I will look for a husband for Argus's beautiful granddaughter Amery, but she's not even old enough for all her health testing yet, and I wouldn't breed her back to Argus anyway.  Our girls are Argus daughters and granddaughters, so I'll try this route again.  Worked wonderfully well breeding Holly to Argus and by next fall I might be ready for puppies again.