Havanese Antics With Two Pups

There's really nothing like two puppies playing. Here you can see Sebastian and Abs playing tug and they have been already playing for hours. She will miss him. Sebastian goes home today or tomorrow morning. It all depends on plane, automobiles and timing. He has been a true joy to have.

There will be an extra few inches in the bed that we will have to fill up somehow. ROFL

Sebastian - as soon as my work quiets down is going to get a bath, fluffy grooming and smell ever so good. It's a must after all that activity - sweaty paws and all - hahahahahaha Dogs sweat through their pads and feet but they get friction in their armpits and therefore that's one of the areas they can get those fine knots - on their bum too - not fun for us or them but most grow out of it. It's rare that I take knots out of armpits from an adult - only when Risa plows into the snow and gets sopping wet but hey - she is having fun.

Coach may come over to play with the pups tonight. Hoping he gets 2 for the price of one or Maryanne is here to see it too. Ah...havenese puppy play - nothing like it!

Well more later.>>

Hanging Out Without Daddy

The crew is really having a great time but missing dad. He's away on business today and won't get home for a bit. He's going to be glad to get back home. He's missed so much but although it was cold, we were in and out the back tons of times. It was fun. Mommy goes out with us and Abigail now barks to go out.

Sebastian has been playing who has the toy THIS time with Abigail. It's a real riot. I can see Sebastian going, oh no, not another female that steals my toys - argh.

That toy in the photo is Sebastian's and somehow Miss Abigail ended up with it, That's okay though as later in the day, Sebastian took it back and I swear he had a Cheshire grin. It's mine - all mine. Abigail best enjoy it as Sebastian leaves us tomorrow night. (sigh) But that's okay as he has a play date with Sassy Saturday and we are dying to find out how THAT works out.

As you can see, don't get these two wrong. They have been playing non stop and just a few minutes ago, Sebastian had a toy he took from Abigail away and she was playing the 'speak to the paw' stance until the camera came out. Speak to the paw is back to you mister. It actually works when your dog is doing something like nibbling and he won't listen. Putting your back to them and ignoring them gets them to understand that you didn't like it.

I think Abigail likes sticks and those sticks are attached to - well they ARE plants and trees and....and I think Sebastian taught her that. tsk tsk. I remember this crew trying to annihilate the coveted Japanese maple we own. Oh well, we had a lesson in 'no' and they kind of listened. I have to learn not to laugh when they are doing funny things even when it is truly funny. Control - thyself - lesson 101.

Well more tales tomorrow and watch for a fluff job on Sebastian and cute photos to follow with all that beauty time results. We are off to bed now....

We Welcome Abigail to Our Crew

Nathan and I welcomed a new and wonderful addition to our home, Abigail from Rockhurst. She arrived last night and we promise we'll have photos up shortly. She fit seamlessly into our home. When the time came she had no issues finding her spot to sleep on the bed.

She is having a really fun time with Sebastian. They were born two days apart, same sire/father.


Sebastian started playing with her the second he saw her. :-) After a few minutes of dealing with Risa, Shoshi, Wasabi, Terra, Whitney and of course Kat, which can be overwhelming, she settled right down and away they went. She is bringing much laughter to our house and that's what life is all about - enjoyment too.

You will have to drop in and follow the antics of this one as she brings joy to our home and we share with you all.

Here's Abigail checking herself out. More photos later of Abigail, Sebastian and the entire crew.

Can't believe it is almost Tuesday and Sebastian will be adventuring in his new home. But he will soon be having a play date with that Sassy Lassy. Now those are photos I want to see. :-)

COMMENTS:
Anonymous said...
Welcome to your new home "Sis" I hope you are having as much fun in your new home that I am in mine.Lov, Lil Red Delilah
January 21, 2008 7:52 AM

Hey - Havanese Gal Wake Up

Sebastian says to Shoshi - hey - get up - I want to play! gad these old guys - all they want is their beauty sleep and to play with me in bursts. I guess that's okay too!

I guess I can learn PATIENCE but hrmmm food is calling me. Hey human - stop the exercise - oh is that supposed to be - stop the presses? Whatever....feeding time. I can smell that food already!

Camera Lovin' Havanese

Sassy is having a bit of Sebastian rub off on her or is that the other way around? The camera comes out and it's strike a pose - such a runway gal.

The crew is up and the 'no bark' is working so well that I pointed my finger - said no bark this morning when a dog in the distance was barking and they are finally getting it. Good one!

Sassy, Wasabi and Sebastian are playing their little hearts out this morning having a roaring good time. After my breakfast, I will bathe her, brush her, Nathan will do her nails and get her ready to be stylin.

Well, it's cold outside. The crew is rolling around having fun and I need my coffee. More later!

Havanese: You Snooze or You Lose

Hey - it's lunch time and I can smell it but all I want to do is curl up and snooze in this bed that is really not big enough for two but am I going to let that stop us? nah... Besides - Havanese can curl up into a small little ball.

I am so camera shy that I lifted my head to make sure they saw me.

More later.>>

Sassy Lassy Antics

Sebastian says - "I have the toy so what are you going to do, Sassy Lassy? Oh - you think you can get it but I will show you who gets to keep it this time!"

Oh, the antics of these two have been precious this week. They have truly bonded even deeper - if that can be imagined. Sebastian even goes to look for her when he deigns to get his ahem out of bed. Sassy Lassy decides if I am getting up - so is she. The thing is, she has no clue about this exercise business and is keyed into my timing. If I am late getting up, that's when she gets up. If I am early - that's her as well. She's really tuned into the rhythms of the human pack. That's nice.

Today I did an hour stretch program that was almost impossible as Sassy Lassy thought that was an invitation to lick my face all over, crawl all over my chest and stomach when I laid down and have a grand old time with my feet.

For those that wondered who got the toy, well that Sassy Lassy plucked it from Sebastian and ran into his bed cave that he has here. She's a mighty creative one in how she accomplishes things. Her mind is always working at ways to have fun and its obvious that these 2 really enjoy each other.

Well more later. Forgive us but we are going to spend as much time with the crew as time allows and then when the Sassy is gone (our last one) - please do continue to read along as there will be tales to tell at Talemakers Havanese.

Havanese Adult & Pup Education

Well things have become interesting. We can surely tell there is a relaxed atmosphere in this house.

Sebastian has no concern about telling Risa what he wants but with Katsuro he goes submissive playful which is the norm with 2 male alphas or alpha want-to-bes - someone has to take that stance for it to work.

Perhaps Sebastian is quite the politician as he got what he wanted and that was to get Katsuro to play full on with him just like he did as a pup. Good one, Sebastian!

The photo is not a good quality but here you see Katsuro playing with Sebastian and Wasabi playing with Sassy.

Sassy has not learned how to be a politician - though gentle in nature - she doesn't back down to anyone but she has had the reality of living here and more of a comfort zone and knowing that the grrr isn't serious around this place. It's just - okay - so you don't want me on top - or you don't want to play but I want to play...so there!

Risa was caught playing with the little ones today too. How nice.

Someone whispered to us that Chico - a sibling may be coming to play and maybe we will get Coach back before Sassy and Sebastian go. Wow, will we have some fun then. We hope it materializes. If not, we will just have to arrange a play date at our house in the future. What can I say? Anything for an excuse to see the little ones.

We had a really fun day today. Sebastian stayed in bed a tad longer, Sassy came down to help me exercise. sassy kept pouncing while I did Kenpo and I swear she thought she was trying it too. She would go back and forth me in the same direction as if to say - can't you make up your mind lady where you want to go? One would have thought she got tired after that but no, the rest of the crew came down and they ate and suddenly the scurrying of little feet going faster than you can imagine and much laughter here. There's nothing like watching 2 Havanese together. They get more exercise then 10 walks put together. It's nice.

These two are indeed the best of pals. But there is nothing like the play with momma Wasabi and now Katsuro too. They are going to be missed!

We are also looking into acquiring one or two puppies ourselves from another quality line that hopefully we can show and breed so we will be continuing this blog and continuing the Talemaker journey of our madness into Havanese obsession. Just watch out. They are addicting and how could they not be with the laughter they bring. More later...

Havanese Siblings - Best Friends

What has become evident as the week has gone by that there is a special bond between siblings that have close contact. We know from experience it wanes to a degree but when they stay in close contact, they remain with that something extra special in the bonding department.

We are really glad that this duo is going to stay as close friends, taking classes together and enjoying each other's competitive nature and they both have THAT for sure! I never saw so many alphas in one litter - oh my!

Here's Sebastian and Sassy hanging out at the back door after a feverish romp this morning. They play so hard, I find they always have that disheveled look - though way cute in my opinion.

Last night Sebastian lost his kingship and Risa reclaimed the pillow. He jockeyed for position a number of times but Risa would have none of that so Sebastian spent time sleeping inbetween my legs, up against Sassy, on my neck and Sassy was found cuddling to Katsuro often.

Sleep was not in the cards for me so I saw it all but not due to him. A dog was howling (Nanook) at 130am and good news, I went shh and no one barked and I kept getting leg cramps that I couldn't get rid of - not from overtaxed muscles as exercise has not been consistent enough. I have to virtually swat myself to get back to it and I will but must be something else. It's still going numb today and I still have tight calf muscles so sleep - well I need some. Maybe if the boss allows, I will snuggle with the doggies and nap and groom in the afternoon vs. this morning. We shall see.

It's hard to believe it is already Wednesday. I am going to miss the little ones. I know some breeders manage to keep their total heart out of the equation but we can't figure out how and I am not sure I do. I do for my sake but not theirs. That base is so critical and we are always looking to perfect it and when you have that mindset, well you love them and then you have to applaud their new journey not for you but for them - in hopes that they have a lifetime of grand memories that their owners will share from time to time.

Wasabi's pups - her gentle nature, her intelligence and she is very intelligent, her body movement, her mischievous nature - well there were many early surprised accomplishments and that tells us that she makes rather special pups. Keep sending photos - please when you can...when you find the time.

Talemaker Havanese 13.5 Week Reunion

This is Talemaker Sassy and Talemaker Sebastian is visiting till early next week. Talemaker Coach came to visit and the fun began. Just wish we got more video. Next time. The pups are now 13.5 weeks old - wow. We miss them already!

Havanese Sibling Socialization

The siblings had a meet and greet session yesterday that was an amazing amount of fun and we wonder if Coach slept afterwards. Sassy crawled into bed upstairs after he left and said enough is enough - I need my sleep. She was completely exhausted. Sebastian decided to stay downstairs and nibble on Terra's ear trying to get her to play. He was wide awake until after 11pm.

They all slept well last night and had no jockeying for position but Sebastian still had Risa's pillow at the top of the bed for a portion of the night- imagine that. He laid across the pillow with his body stretched out and up against Nathan's head. All was fine in his world getting top dawg position for the 2nd night in a row. Katsuro snuggled then decided the floor was cooler. Sassy doesn't seem to get preoccupied with proving any of that stuff - rather like Risa, so one wonders if they remained in the same house who would be true alpha. Only time would tell. Personally, I think a submissive position is easier than controlling the universe.

Interesting enough, Coach is also an alpha want to be - so 3 alpha want to be's getting together to play - it was actually fun. They wrestled and play growled and rolled around and ran and had a roaring grand time. Here's Sassy yanking on her brother to get him out of the tunnel. Hey - you can't escape me - you just think you can.

This get together was great. It was great distraction for us. Thanks, John!

Here's a photo of Coach and Sassy and I am putting this up as Sassy was shaking her head midstream while I was taking this photo trying to dust herself off from the antics of her siblings. It looks a tad funny but that's what she was indeed doing.

Sassy was the target at times but she held her own and then some - but it was all in fun. If it wasn't, we would have ceased the behaviour but she kept going back for more and playing with all comers.

You can click on any of the photos in this site to see a larger version.

I remember when the dogs couldn't reach this water dish and had to put their paws up to drink. My, times have changed. They have really grown. Rockhurst's Buster and Wasabi really made nice pups and Wasabi and her body structure, balanced nature and Buster and his - wow. I can't say enough and they remain ahead of schedule, smart as ever and pretty dawgs. Ok, we aren't supposed to say pretty about the males but they are...rather nice features and everyone says that. They have this cuteness factor thang going on.

The siblings had a blast. I have yet to find time to look at the video but it was a futile attempt to capture. They were running and running with excitement. But - maybe - something. We will find out later and if so, we will upload. Our still photos were just as bad. Amazing how fast with excitement they were moving. We must do this again.

Talemaker's Havanese Ritz Abode

There are some Havanese dawgs that love comfort and Risa's line reeks of THAT! Risa loves her sleep time, her pillow at the top of the bed that Sebastian stole last night and they love their zzzzz's - always have but Risa and Katsuro take the cake as they love the pillows, the blanket over them and it can't be any pillow but it must be soft, comfie and just right.

Due to a new visitor, Sebastian, Katsuro has decided to catch some zzzs on the couch this morning. Laying high also gives him the illusion he is top dawg surveying all.

Sebastian and Sassy are also nodded out together in the big dawgs bed. Sebastian is going to get a comb out when he gets done snoozing. He decided today to mimic Risa in the snow. Risa goes out, lays down in the snow and does a body rub. Sebastian thought that was rather interesting and tried it himself. Sassy just looked and I swear said what are you 2 nuts doing? Ah - but Sebastian and Risa are satisfied that she hasn't got a clue. They now have all that fresh white stuff to themselves to roll and get a mess in.

COMMENTS:
---------------------
Mark and Maryanne has left a new comment on your post "Talemaker's Havanese Ritz Abode": I'm glad to see that Sebastian got his choice of pillows on the bed last night. He's learning that he is the king and all others are his loyal subjects!! Let's not let it go to his head. Posted by Mark and Maryanne to Wasabi's Havanese Adventures at January 14, 2008 1:33 PM

Havanese Morning Stroll

This is Sebastian and Sassy coming in from their morning stroll out back. They love the layer of snow and Sebastian hasn't stopped making that tweety sound yet with that stick we can't find anywhere. I may hide that toy and Sassy wants it back.

Off to do breakfast. Boy are they full of it this fine morning.

More later...

Sebastian Visit is Full of Fun

Sebastian is here visiting and we are in heaven. Nathan caught him snuggling with me. He's been playing up a storm and I mean non-stop. Me thinks he is rather fond of his sister, Sassy. He's such a cutie. It's great to have him here as they are making us laugh. So far, Katsuro was rolling around in the big bed with him, Shoshi was doing run-like-hell, Risa's been watching and mommy Wasabi has been correcting. hehehehe

You know that tunnel we have, Sebastian just jumped in mid air on top while Sassy was inside and squished it on her. No one got hurt. Sassy jumped out and I swear she was laughing about it. Where was the video camera then? This all happened while I was typing.

We have had a couple of - 'who is boss' episodes where one squeaks from rough-housing but then Wasabi straightens them out. It's way funny and great timing for us as we needed an infusion of fun. Thanks, Maryanne and Mark. More later as I am positive this duo will keep us on our toes and to me - that's quite nice!

Here Sebastian is taking a time out so he can get rejuvenated. It lasted 10 minutes and they were both back at it - in and out of tunnels, and Sebastian's home safe place is that house that Maryanne brought. Where did you get it?

Tomorrow I will get more video. I got a bit but I am way too busy watching. Something about a camera on your face - well it takes away from the experience - heh but I promise you lots of moments - no worry. Today - well today is just enjoy without worrying about capturing it all.

PS: Sebastians already checked out the bed and has staked his claim. When he calms down, I will clean up his feet from all that run-like-hell through the grass out back.

More later...off to watch the pair.
---------------
COMMENTS:
Mark and Maryanne has left a new comment on your post "Sebastian Visit is Full of Fun": Sebastian's bed came from SuperPet. It's actually a cat bed, but I didn't tell Sebastian that! He'll be sad when he's too big to fit through the holes in it. Posted by Mark and Maryanne to Wasabi's Havanese Adventures at January 13, 2008 9:18 PM

Sassy: Which One?

Sassy found that plastic empty bottle fun - a cheap toy till it gets flattened and you throw it out to start again. It makes tons of noise and the Havanese adore it.

She was inbetween this stick that makes a tweety toy that's laying in the bed (it's a cat toy that used to have cloth hanging off of it) and that bottle and she's trying to figure out which one.

Mischevious Havanese

Sassy: it's all about the game type, missy - chievious personality, intelligent, balanced, caring, special heart, quick thinker, likes the game - whatever games she creates and is now 4 lbs 15 oz. She loves to eat too.

Now if she wasn't going to the people she is, well I think she would never be going ANYWHERE.

There are times after all the fun and games, the dogs just conk out and sit next to you and all is right in the world. This was one of those moments yesterday. Here you can see Maggie - the mom of Yvonne's latest litter who happens to be our very own Risa's daughter, Sassy and Flora Dora - well Flora from Lola's litter - Yvonne's litter just before this one who happens to have Wasabi's brother as the sire. No wonder they look similar.

Oh, Havanese can be quite amusing. Our adult dogs minus Katsuro who had his topknot/ponytail gnawed out of him by another dog - well they wear hair ties to hold the hair away from the eyes. Typically, Sassy now has a hair tie or two in her mouth from Wasabi's head or Shoshi's that we have to take away from her.

We have to catch her in the act as it is way cute but a no no when you have a show dog that is the recipient of such antics.

As time goes on, Sassy has been learning how to effectively communicate with the other dogs, get the best of them if she can help it by playing these fun games and she delights in them. We are going to miss such spirit around here but she's like her mom so the new owners are going to have a life of interesting times woven with much fun and personally - well that's what makes Havanese so special. This litter - well I must have done something right to have them in our lives.

More later after Sebastian comes.>>

Visiting Friends & Socialization

We went to visit Yvonne's house today to give the dogs something to do, give us a distraction and do so in a safe environment. We were going to go tomorrow but remembered we get to have Sebastian for a visit and it's surely going to be fun. We can't wait!

This is Sassy playing with one of Yvonnes puppies who are now 6 weeks old. Sassy is doing amazing in the car. She rather enjoys it as she knows car=fun places to go.

Yvonne's pups are way cute and it was fun to spend time with good friends that have a way to make you laugh.

Sassy's turning into a really great dog despite that I gave her a bath - what a few days ago and looks like a grunge due to running around in the mud but we will freshen her up, give her a bath before she goes to her new home next Saturday and you'll just have to read us to hear about the antics of the rest of the crew.

The crew promises that it's rarely a dull moment. With Havanese..well they are like that!

More tomorrow and we promise to do a video of the crew when Sebastian is here. One wonders what the bed arrangements will be with Sebastian here but I can't wait to find out!

2 COMMENTS:
Mark and Maryanne said...
I expect that Sebastian will be sleeping on the bed. Oh, and since he's a guest (and bound to be scared since it's his first time at sleep-over camp) he should get first pick of where on the bed he wants to sleep!!!:) But be careful, sometimes he waits until you're asleep, then he gets off the bed and gets into all sorts of mischief!
January 12, 2008 11:41 PM
Nathan said...
Eh hemmm! This might be his first time at sleep over camp but somehow I don't think he'll find the situation all that onerous with his mommy Wasabi, his sister Sassy, and his teacher Katsuro-san not to mention Terra, Whitney, Shoshi and Risa. As far as his spot on the bed, it is really rarely an issue. They all find their spots. As far as leaving the bed in the night goes, no worries there either. You can be sure that Sassy will stick with him and if it looks really interesting Kat will be there too. It will be a serious trial for him but somehow I think he'll struggle through it until you get back. --Nathan
January 13, 2008 9:07 AM

Power of Havanese Dogs

It never ceases to amaze me that no matter how down you are, the dogs make you laugh and at the very least smile.

Wasabi was running like a banshee up on the bench, to the couch, to the floor and back again playing with Sassy - always teaching her. I do believe Wasabi is most of all she can be when she is in this mode. She adores the pups - hers - others and she loves teaching. She has patience - something I need to learn at times.

We had 2 things that happened that surprised me. Wasabi tends to be a submissive and bows to Risa's wants/desires but she is starting to say enough of that, Risa - and she does it in a positive way but then yesterday, we had bones and Sassy took Terra's out of her mouth and then took Wasabi's out of her mouth in such a way that the 2 adult dogs had no clue what the mischievous thang did. I did laugh to myself and I corrected and Wasabi looked at me as if to say, thank you for helping rein this 'I am all that attitude' in. She's certainly a dog with a personality that you adore. She's got spunk, attitude and a lovey heart that doesn't stop. We can't wait till Sebastian gets here and gets her back to realizing she's not the only star around here.

More later...

Tux

Many of you have been diligently following the life and times of our Wasabi and her litter: Tux, Remy, Chico, Sassy, Coach and Sebastian. You are therefore aware that all the pups have long since gone to their new homes with the exception of Sassy who we are really picky about who she goes to as she's so special. You all know how much we love each and every one of these pups and you’ve managed to share a little of our joy with us each day through the magic of modern technology, digital and video cameras and Darlah’s writing skills.

Out of this litter, the pup chosen for showing and breeding was Tux. He exhibited traits and characteristics that made him the first pick as a show dog by all that saw him. With delight Rita herself (our Mentor) decided she was going to bring him home and teach him, train him for the show ring and make him a champion. Rita was very proud of this little boy, with just cause. He went home to Rita before all the others (at a few days over 8 weeks) so that she could help mold him and welcome him to the rest of his life. I am truly saddened to announce that the promise and joy, the anticipation and pleasure of Tux was cut short last night as he left us for a better place.

You can’t tell from my words but there was a break while I had a little cry.

Tux caught Parvo! We’ll probably never know how or where he got it. He’d not yet had his second vaccination. This certainly brings home the importance of limiting your interaction with people and dogs until at least they’ve had their second shot but it’s still a fluke that he caught it. As he’d been gone from our home for 4 weeks at the time and we’d not seen Rita or any of her dogs the virus didn’t have a chance to spread to us or to any of our pups or dogs. Same with Yvonne who many of you know has a 5 week old litter that would have been wiped out if they’d been infected. And I want to make one thing clear, Rita knows a hell of a lot more about the health of the Havanese breed than me. I know this was a terrible tragedy but I also know it was a terrible fluke, an accident. I know that if it happened to Rita and Tux it could just as easily have happened to me or you. Rita identified that Tux was ill immediately and got him in to an excellent Vet that we all use. He was able to test and diagnose the Parvo at once and fought to save the little pup’s life for 5 days. A few days ago Rita had plasma protein flown in from California to a local lab and she stood there while they prepared it for Tux, then drove it back to Colbourne to the Vet. She did everything she could. Sometimes it's just your time and we can but appreciate and remember the little we had with him. His loss affects us all. Please join me in extending massive hugs to Rita and if you happen to have an extra, to Darlah as well.

Darlah's note: Nathan needs massive virtual hugs too

We have to believe that Tux has gone on to a better place before us.

Sincerely
Nathan
http://www.talemakerhavanese.com/

_________________________________________

Mark and Maryanne said...
Our thoughts are with you and Rita at this difficult time. We know that everything possible was done to try and save him.
January 10, 2008 9:26 PM

_________________________________________
Anonymous said...
I was so sad to read this today. Please give the dogs an extra hug from us.David and Marilyn
January 10, 2008 9:52 PM

_________________________________________
Michele & Barbara Johannes said...
Guys please know you are in our thoughts and prayers, we know how hard it is to loose a little on at such a young age! Please give each other hugs for us
January 10, 2008 10:00 PM

_________________________________________

Amy S. has left a new comment on your post "Tux": Yesterday I put our beloved Dane, Otto down. It was probably one of the most difficult decisions I've ever made. He had little use left in his hind quarters and was falling down daily. I just couldn't watch him suffer. I am so sorry for your loss. Otto's death re-enforced my belief in the afterlife, for when I looked at his body I saw his spirit had left that he had truly gone on to a better place and that our spirits encompass a vast span that can't be contained to our small bodies forever. I imagine Tux and Otto frolicking somewhere beautiful and free. My heart goes out to you all, as it is obvious how much you love your dogs. Posted by Amy S. to Wasabi's Havanese Adventures at January 11, 2008 10:24 AM

_________________________________________

Thanks everyone and extra hugs to Amy for her loss. We feel for you.

Havanese Grooming Time

Are we having fun or what? As you can see, I got a bath today and what is that thing she is putting on me around my neck? What is that rush of hair blowing at me? Hey - I am not sure I like this!

Oh my, but if I stand still, I get a treat. Hmm - it's NOT all bad. Plus I look perfectly snowy white just like my canine mommy Wasabi that also had a bath before me.

This human has this thing that points at me and blows warmish air but not that warm at me. Then she brushes me while it is blowing at me and I am not sure I am thrilled with that but she says she must or I may get some knots plus the hair looks silky smooth when she does it that way. I know as I admired myself in the mirror that is around this place. Those humans think I think it's another dawg but I know it's me strutting myself. Plus - I look boot-i-full - don't ya think?

It's important not to make the hair bone dry unless you are going out. As you can see from this photo, I am a tad damp but not wet. This way my skin doesn't dry out and my hair stays smashingly healthy. She also sprays this spray on conditioner all over and that helps protect my coat and keeps it cleaner longer plus keep any knots away as long as I get a brush.

We got batteries for a toy that has a recorder in it. You are supposed to record things and when I move it, well that human's voice starts talking out of it. I am sooooo confused and it drops out treats. The humans around here may hide this toy as it is about to drive them nuts.

Havanese Pay Attention To Me

Oh, it's surely getting cold out today and so bath times will begin - Katsuro first as he is - well a mess - then Wasabi and on and on.

I received a surprise gift from friends who made it - a grooming table so I am jazzed about having something other than my washing machine to stand them on. We shall see how it goes.

Well, here is Sassy - sorely needing a bath herself - still doesn't look so bad but still - it's time. We put a jacket of Shoshi's on as it's rather windy today to practice look at me. Once we have this mastered, we will start heeling.

The first step is to get him/her to gain comfort with the leash, the various mediums, noises etc and then you start training. Some say train from the minute you start but we find that it interferes with the love of the experience. We want the dog to look around, enjoy his surroundings and gain some curiousity and excitement about the process. Then when your dog is excited about getting a collar and lead on, you then start getting them to pay attention to YOU.

First command is an 'attention' command as this will be the core to getting your dog to do what you want. If you want your dogs to listen to you in all circumstances, then you must first have their FULL attention and a method that works.

Attach a very long leash to your dog's collar. Why? Because a short leash doesn't give him enough room to "test" his limits and learn which behavior you're going for. Ultimately, if your dog willingly stays with you on a long leash, then it will be easier to teach him to stay with you willingly on a shorter leash later.


Start by getting your dog's full attention. With the dog standing (or sitting) on your left side, call his name. When he looks at you, reward immediately with a TREAT.

If he doesn't look at you, take a treat to his nose and bring it to your eyes. When you are doing this, say 'Sassy, look.' (trade your dog's name for Sassy) When he looks up at you (really the treat) then reward him. You can also start using a clicker here to get them to understand a click means something positive and this will help you in the long term to wean off of the treat system.

Then, start walking. With each and every step that the dog follows along next to you, TREAT. If he gets distracted, repeat getting him to pay attention to you. If you get to this 2nd step, you have just begun teaching your dog to heel. If you are stuck in the 'attention' portion, it will come. Be patient. It's not about intelligence but creating an atmosphere where they know this is what you want. The key is always make it fun. Do not practice for too long and do not get frustrated. If you are getting frustrated, it's time to stop. You should only be practicing this in 5 to 10 minute intervals. Do not treat when he wanders off or refuses to pay attention to you when you call his name.

When training, feed a tad less to compensate for the addition of training treats.

This is in no way a substitution for training classes. You will be glad that you plunked your money down if you find a quality training centre.

More later.

Thaw: Time to Be Careful

We are dealing with a thaw here in the Toronto area and cold weather will again set in. But it's time to say that if your little one has not had 3 of its vaccinations, do not let him traipse through fecal matter or sniff or worse eat it or drink from water found in pools from the thaw. Your little one is not protected yet. Before you say - well, I wouldn't allow that - at this stage, with teething and being a puppy, it's natural for them to mouth, taste and figure things out just like a human baby will. Dogs are fast and it can happen without you even noticing. They need their 3 vaccinations before they can fight off the possibilities that exist out there.

But even with all that, your little one - a winter pup has not had the grass exposure to know what its about. Add extreme moisture into the equation and some dogs plain don't like it. Sassy doesn't seem to mind though the deck was a momentary - what is this funny stuff under my feet but she didn't let it stop her. She wasn't crazy about the wetness and mud and it's futile to keep the dogs clean and I am a person who likes my dogs clean but sanity also plays a part in my life and we will get to it when the weather gets colder. It sounds strange to do that but the mud won't be an issue then and they will stay cleaner longer. Who would expect a thaw in January and I even have green plants outside. Confusing mother nature.

Well, if yours doesn't like it or can't figure out where to go, take him and place him in the center of the grass and give him your command for him to go. Even Shoshi, who hates wet feet goes in the grass in the backyard as we have physically placed her in the middle and she has had no choice. She also eventually figured out it wasn't so bad.

Coach came by with his human dad and the dogs were excited to see him. He couldn't stay for long but really was excited, recalled well and knew where daddy was. Nice! He really enjoyed Sassy and his canine mom, Wasabi. I do believe when he visits again - hoping when Sebastian is here but anytime is fine - we will have to video tape that. Coach was just at a vet and weighed in at 6lbs even. He's in great shape and I should have taken a photo of him as he is turning out to be so extremely cute. What a beauty. I knew he would be. Wasabi really makes pretty pups. Thanks, John for bringing him by.

Our Dear Friends Have a Puppy Video

Check out the puppy video of Yvonne's crew and our very own Sassy Lass is in it as well. Yvonne's pups are 5 weeks now but were 4 weeks on New Year's day when this video was taken. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Remy Comfort, More on Video & Exercise

Here's a photo of Talemaker's Remy that his new owners sent us. He has 3 kids to play with and I am positive that makes him WAY happy. We hear he is fitting in well. There is always that first few days of - where am I - but then they seem to be falling into the rules of their new home and finding their grounding and comfort. We LOVE hearing from the puppy owners and can't wait till the picnic this year. There's nothing like seeing all the siblings together and we will have Risa's crew, Wasabi's crew and some of Paris (Gidget) crew plus Gidget herself as we always watch some of the Paris (Gidget) crew. Plus if we are really lucky we may have some of Yvonne's crew. How wonderful will that be to see so many Havanese.

We start out - well I start out my day taking the doggies downstairs and outside before I do my exercise. Usually Sassy will go back upstairs and kiss up Nathan's face (hope his new owners love a kissy face) and settle back in with Risa who never deigns to get up. Every now and then if we take Sassy out last thing, she does the same but today the crew all came down minus Risa and its wet and rainy as you can see how they look in this photo but I started exercising. I do p90x - waiting to do p90X+ when it comes to stay in shape, keep my energy up and de-stress if I ever need it. I was erratic while puppies were here as they are our focus but now with less pups, I can get back at it and boy the body is feeling it and the dogs love it. Pounce time on me...

During puppy time, the dogs don't get the walks as a precaution to catching anything and due to Yvonne having pups that we visit, we will stay in that head space till hers are vaccinated. It's important not to take your dogs to dog traffic places till after their shots. But you can do many things at home and socialize them with dogs you know well.

Today the crew, while I did Ab Ripper X - well let's just say I wish someone else was up as the dogs - when I got on the floor saw it as an invitation to play and Sassy was draped on my neck, Shoshi was pouncing on me, Wasabi was trying to pounce on Sassy on my neck all while I was doing abx exercises. It was a riot and I needed it as taking a break from exercises, it almost is like you are starting again falling asleep early - trying to get the body adjusted but well worth it in the long run. It's an amazing program and if you stick with it - 90 days later - wow what a HUGE difference in everything.

Now while I was doing it today, I had to set them aside to actually do it but that was after I was done laughing and laughter is the best medicine. Havanese fill you with laughter and to me that is precious.

If you watched Sebastian and Sassy yesterday, did you notice that Wasabi was still playing mommy and corrected Sassy? If you watch where Sebastian went under the couch, watch what Wasabi did to Sassy. These puppies are both potential alphas but siblings work out their relationship and it gives them a lifetime of understanding how to be the politician when one needs to be. When Sebastian comes to visit, I suspect Wasabi will continue those lessons with the 2 and that will be a huge bonus for both and fun for us to watch. Plus, it gives Wasabi a job. Havanese love having a job - something they can get fulfilled from.

Well off to eat, feed doggies and argh work today. More later.

Two Talemaker Havanese Siblings Reunite

We had approx 2.5 hours of copy and had to cut out a ton but we hope what you enjoy the reunion of these Havanese siblings after 2 weeks. It was wild, crazy and amazingly fun. No, they are not killing each other. They're having a gloriously fun time. This is how Havanese play - especially sibling mates. Thanks goes to Sebastian's mom, Maryanne for bringing him to visit. It's these moments that make this all worth it! The other sibling, Sassy gal and she is Sassy as you will see, goes to her new home soon and will be playing with Sebastian from time to time. What more could we hope for!

Can you imagine what we cut? It was great copy - all 2.5 hours worth with minor camera issues but still a great memory. Thanks!!

What Makes an Outstanding Havanese?

This morning, Sassy was relentless with Katsuro. He wanted to sleep - she insisted that she wanted to snuggle. It was as if Katsuro wanted to say - 'will you just leave me alone?'

This was the beginning of their social interaction today. Each day it varies on what she learns from each. It's a huge bonus for her to remain with many dogs as she will learn a bit from each and it will help her learn important communication skills. It's hard for us as we bond with them. But as we found in the past and with Sebastian yesterday, when a pup comes to visit and enjoys and is comfie in our home, it means they have good imprints from where they began. Then when they are done playing, show that their new owners are their person, and they go home, it also shows us that this learning, security and love has continued and that lends us comfort as it's all about the dawgs to us more than you can ever know!

To continue on what happened this morning - Then as time went on, they just fell asleep together. Relationships at this critical stage are important as they lay the base for how they will react as adults unless you intervene and immerse them in slow conditioning but why start with baggage? It's best to expose in safe environments to give the best result. Easier said then done at times and things do happen and you 'can' recover.

What that means is it is important to expose them to dogs you know that will give them positive reactions to help them learn how to interact. That's not to say that the growl from Risa as one is getting too close is not a good thing. It is but when no altercation exists but rather communication, the puppy learns.

You can click on any photos in this blog to get a larger view.

Today we are working on a video with Sebastian to show you how siblings react to each other. It's a joy - a true one. But I need to find the time to edit and we have much to do today - am shooting for tonight at the latest to post.

To elaborate on what makes a dog balanced, secure, even temperament and all that you want it to be - is it genetics? I will take a piece out of Kathryn Braunds book, The Joyous Havanese (I suggest you buy this book) that tells what makes a dog be all they can be.

"Your dog is 50% dam, 50% sire however both dam and sire are a product of generations of genes. Each canine mom imprints her puppies with habits she has and the way she responds to their and her human's guardians every action. " (My note: with multi dogs - that includes all the dogs that interact with the pups)

"Ingredients in making a dog be all they can be:

1. Interactions with siblings (other dogs in home)
2. Interaction with the breeder
3. Permanent socialization from 8 to 20 weeks
4. The final touch covers adolescent from 12 to 15 months. Socialization during this period cements all past genetic and environmental happenings in the not so closed brain.

Note that many genes do not come into play unless they are utilized early on such as retrieving. It is why you should be teaching your dog as much as he can by 15 months. It doesn't mean learning ceases after this age but the brain is more receptive till this age."

Puppy relationships start in the whelping box. You as a potential owner should be asking what the breeder does in regards to socialization, relationships etc.

Here, we take it very serious and invest our whole heart and soul in it but it's a learning process and once you stop and become stagnant, it's not good. Life is changing so learning should never end. From 4 weeks to 16 weeks is a very critical stage.

"Let's see what makes a Havanese tick. We already know the Havanese have genes honed into them through centuries of rearing, which makes him loving, exceptionally happy and bouncy. His stereotype is of a sensitive, willing, attention seeking, charming athletic dog.

However each Havanese is an individual and each has been gifted or denied by nature and environment with certain talents above and beyond the breed's basic characteristics., just as humans are. Each Havanese will develop different emotional responses to experiences he meets in life."

It's good to know that the Havanese you own (or will) completes his personality development and his uniqueness through interaction with you and your family.

Sebastian Came to Visit

Sebastian and his human mom came to visit us today and the siblings got right back into it having a roaring good time but neither could figure out who was the boss. Here's Sebastian looking in at Sassy going 'you can run but you can't hide' They have such a great time playing with tunnels. From inside to outside, the pair couldn't get enough of each other and I do believe Wasabi was happy to see him as well. It was an exhausting day for all the doggies but fun to watch. We hope the video turned out.

Then when they finished playing their little hearts out, they started to fall asleep. Sassy is still wiped.

It's going to be amazing to have him visit next time. We can't wait! Thanks goes to his parents for bringing him by. It surely made our day!

Havanese Tug With the Big Ones

Well yesterday we covered Sassy playing with Wasabi and who did you figure ended up being 'Top Dawg' - oh - it wasn't mommy. Sassy usually puts on a good defense with Wasabi but yesterday she won - out and out won even if it was in a mischievous way.

Sassy takes on all comers too. Look at her pulling for all she is worth with Terra. Now Terra knows this game well and she used to play it with Shoshi. She would sometimes let Shoshi win and guess what - she's doing the same with Sassy but all this winning is giving the little girl a big head. Oh oh!

More later...

Sassy Frazzled or Top Dog?

We visited Sassy's new forever home (she goes next week) and she got to meet her cat-mate and her retriever-mate (retriever-mate she met previously) - her new human mom and dad and her sibling Josh - no darts Josh - I am part of the family now - ROFL and was able to look around. She even got to check out the bedrooms. We whisper Sebastian's name in her ear and she perked up - knowing she will be doing visits with him sometimes. We know she is going to love it there.

When she got home, Wasabi and her got into it in Terra's bed and you can almost not tell where one body starts and the other ends but what you can't see is that stick to the right - well it makes a gad-awful sound of birds tweeting and they LOVE this thing and yep - it's a cat toy.

Well, guess who won? We will tell you tomorrow. Today, well you will have to guess. Back to watching the play!

New Years Havanese Slideshow

With so much snow, we got to spend New Years with our friends Yvonne and Alex from Chicadoro Havanese. We had a roaring good time and these are only some of the photos. We hope Yvonne does a slideshow on her site as there are so many more photos with her beautiful litter.

Kemi Becomes a Canadian Champion

Last summer Risa had a litter that was identical to Wasabi's in that there were five boys and a single girl. Many of you have seen at least one of that litter, our Katsuro. Well, today I am proud to announce that Katsuro's sister Kemi received her Canadian Championship this past weekend. She makes us all proud.
Nathan

Tux Sends a New Year Greeting

This is a photo we received in our email from Rita and it looks like Tux is practicing - I am all that look. Got to charm those judges now that Kemi from Risa's litter got her championship this last weekend - you'll have to show them how the males strut their stuff. :-)

We have no doubt that he will - as he was a charmer from birth. ROFL!

Nice - photo, Rita - keep them coming!

Havanese Winter Comfort

Here's Sassy this morning playing tug toy with Louis. She took a day or 2 to warm up to him as Louis was playing with Katsuro more but the last couple of days, Sassy thinks she's a grown-up gal especially after seeing Yvonne's pups. She played with the pups but decided she wanted the challenge of the older dogs and Louis is almost the same age as Katsuro - just a few weeks younger.

Later today we are going to do a slideshow of our trip hopefully and maybe some video as we really had a great time but we shall see how busy work is. We won't be going out on walks today as it is too cold so it will be out to the back and back in and inside the house games.

Sassy really LOVES the big dog's bed and the big dogs. She loves the goldens. She's a gentle soul much like our Katsuro but she also has his spunk - meaning she won't take grief from others but plays the politician part well - hahahahahaha She's going to make someone a really wonderful dawg - I tell you.

More later...

Happy Havanese New Year

Well, we just got back from having a fab time at our friends Yvonne and Alex. The crew is sitting in their living room sopping wet and they had lots of snow and if I can get a video rendered, you may see then running like the dickens outside having a grand time.

Sassy had her shots so yesterday she was sore but not too bad. She weighed in at 4lbs 6 ounces. Her vet loved her patellas - said wow - really great ones. He thought she was in excellent health and we are glad and he said - oh my this one looks like her mommy - such a beautiful face. That was nice.

We spent a really great time at our friends but one can't sleep with 6 Havanese in a queen size bed. It's way too funny and we had all sorts of issues with technical stuff but hey that calmed down and we watched TV and human daddy snored and Yvonne had to say - ah let's go to bed and Risa was asking for hours already.

Today we tried to render a video but will have to give it a shot here. Till now, you can look at Sassy and her mom out in the backyard at Yvonnes. She soooo adorable in looks and personality - I tell you. Big dogs, little ones - she got her grounding and played in such a short time - it was great to see. Even when Britney (an old Beardie - the leader of the pack at Yvonnes and Alex) was barking she said - what was that and continued on without issue.

I need to eat but wanted to say Sassy did well on the long ride there, the shots, the strange house, the different bed to sleep on and all those doggies to play with. She had a roaring good time and so did the rest of the pack but when we said home, Katsuro got excited then the rest did and they are almost all conked out except Louis, our visitor (who goes home tomorrow - sniff) and Sassy who are playing up a storm. More tomorrow and hopefully a video but too tired tonight to pull it together.

By the way, Sassy has really and I mean really perfected her jumps through snows and her going up and down stairs. Me thinks she's going to be quite the athlete like Wasabi.

Last Bath of Year

Sassy had her last bath of the year this morning. Here's daddy drying her gently with a towel - more patting down as rubbing will create tangles and Louis is looking on trying to figure out if he is next but mommy needs to finish brushing him before he gets a bath. You never bath a dog that has knots as it tightens them. Keep that in mind.

Tips for bathing - always use a whitening shampoo to keep the whites brilliant. I use Chris Christensen and a couple of other brands and they don't lighten the darks just brightens the whites - not bleach - just gives it that nice white and these pups have that white as a driven snow colour - which is nice - most don't and they take after Wasabi for that. I also use Chris Christensen's Day to Day conditioner. The thing about conditioner is it's a must to reduce the tangles but you must get all of it off other than your spray on conditioner like Ouidad that is safe and good to leave on. If there is any residue, your dog is apt to scratch and let you know you didn't get it all. If that is the case, a warm face cloth wiping in the direction of the coat will remove the last residue. You can even do this just to be sure. I forget at times but realize after a few rolls in the snow, they have essentially done the same thing. Some pups are more sensitive than others.

I also use Ouidad spray on conditioner and I use a comb throughout the hair and without, a comb may catch as tangles may be starting. You may feel your little one squirms too much but I have a great trick that helps especially if you have a crate like mine with an opening up top.

I take my blower - which never gets hot but warm and you can use a blower dryer on a low setting but anyone with more than one dog should own a blower, imho. I do not know how I did without it but pricey it is. Place your dryer on a stand or have someone else hold it. You put your pup in the crate like I have and spray and comb and/brush through the opening. This helps me have free arms to do what I need to and the pup is in a safe place but you must brush/comb as you dry to eliminate any tangles. Next bath, I am going to introduce Sassy to laying down on various sides to allow me to thoroughly comb her out but at this point, the key is to get her used to the combing itself which I am doing daily now - not that she needs it at this point but she will end up like the rest of my dogs laying down without issue and allowing me to comb and brush them out. It's all slow conditioning and it works.

Well, off to get ready for our road trip. Mommy has to brush out all the Havanese. They had baths 2 days ago and Louis and Sassy were the remaining dogs. Louis will have to wait till we return.

More later...

Last Havanese Posts of the Year

It's the last day of the year and we have been running around in fresh snow and human mommy took a photo of us through the door - so you sort of see us, sort of not.

Louis has been playing with me non-stop now. At first he would play bow in a way that I thought he was going to pounce on me and so I tried it that way and soon we were running around like banshees this morning. Mommy was laughing so hard she thought she would wake the neighbours. Then she went running for the door hoping we would come but we didn't notice her so she stood at the door waiting - then called and here we are in this picture waiting for her to open the door.

Well, mommy says I am getting a bath today as I go into the vet and then I am going to do some New Year's eve visiting. I can't wait - new adventures, new environments - all good to help me be all I can be.

The doggies are in for a whole lot of fun today and what a great way to end the year - I tell you. It does the humans hearts good to see such fun. Photos will come.

Visitors and Perfecting Running

We have Louis visiting. He's the black Havanese in this photo. We adore Louis as he is one of the most agile havanese we know walking across the top of the agility tunnel last picnic we had. Everyone else walked or ran through - not him on top just like his mom Gidget formally named Paris. Black Havanese are hard to photograph and you have to have a technique - called get them up close that I didn't have here. :-) Sorry...

As you can see, Sassy is running across our safety cover towards Louis. She's been having a blast today. She also had a golden visitor called Casey that was rather cool to have over. We love Golden's around this place.

Tomorrow Sassy gets her next set of shots. She's in for a treat seeing Lex as she likes him and more surprises tomorrow coming her way.