Practice - Training - Havanese Style

Well, although yesterday was a blip. Nathan was able to etch out time to train the dogs.

Training consists of getting all of them on the table and doing lead work and more with Treasure.

As it gets closer to show time, we will be doing lead work with all plus Monday we will start going to handling classes with Abigail and Fiona for their next show.

Treasure can't be shown until April. That sounds like lots of time but is it?

You really should start general training months ahead of time to get them used to the lead, find their enthusiasm for it and create that bond. Without that connection - well it just won't work as great as it could.

But the key is not to do it for a very long time in one dose and find the fun - the connection. It is also important to correct when they are doing what they shouldn't be.

You need to correct in a positive way. They learn and you don't allow habits - well to become habits that are incorrect.

After the outside work, Nathan came in and did some table work. Realize that a good portion of dogs get nervous being up on a table the first time. Many have their tails down and some for weeks while you do training. It all depends on many things but each are individuals.

Think of it like a public speaking event for a human. Some can stand up and go on and on with much comfort and others have to learn and find their comfort level by getting exposure. Some never quite get it entirely and those are the dogs - well the kind even if they are perfect in every other way - well we say - if they don't like it - do what you need to and then forget the rest.

Now why would they be nervous? The table doesn't have sides. It's high up and they have no clue what you expect from them.

It's important to get them to feel their comfort level and then you start making sure they are stacked properly - feet where they are supposed to be etc.

One other thing you have to do is check their teeth. A good portion of dogs will wonder what you are doing first time they experience this. Others hate their back end touched and arch their back.

Each dog is different.

Then after all the training was done, Nathan invested some fun time with a break in-between with doing some retrieve. He gets on the floor - makes all sorts of fun sounds and the dogs LOVE it. As I said, training is important but don't forget that training should be fun and rewarding. You and your attitude make all the difference in the world. If you get frustrated - stop - and come back at it later in a better frame of mind. Your Havanese can read how you feel.

Quiet Times at Talemaker Havanese

It's getting quiet around here. We are down to 1 extra dog and come a week from Monday - we will be down to just our own. How will we ever get by. ROFL

Treasure went out and visited Jazzy today and we heard that this went rather well. Treasure is starting her socialization process. Perhaps we will take her out to a dog store tomorrow to get more exposure. It's really important to do slow exposures like this and not to coddle - just praise when they relax. They will soon get that relaxing is a positive thing. Seems Treasure has that part figured out thus far without but that doesn't mean you stop the socialization.
We didn't get much sleep last night so guess what went out the window? Most of Treasure's training such as heeling. The thing about training is it is important to do it daily but sometimes life gets in the way.

I am also back to doing Tony Horton's P90x yet again and the dogs are joining me and Treasure thinks this jumping around is an opportunity to jump with me, on me and bark. yikes. So, we are trying to get that curbed.

Will Sunday be a skip day or first week down. Tomorrow will tell. Maybe I will do doggie yoga with Treasure. If so, I will try to do it late enough so Nathan can take photos to show you how you can exercise and have fun with the dawgs!

More tomorrow!

Off to Class: Big Dogs and All

We went all the way out to Blackstock last night as we like a certain instructor and her obedience is all about the connection, the focus on you etc so it helps with the ring. Treasure walked in surrounded by all large and mind you rambunctious dogs as they were large in body – puppies so silly in mind. Tail was down for about 3 minutes. She looked around – Nathan walked her around and tail went up and she played recovery. The instructor demo’d with her and her tail went down for about 1 minute till she saw she had treats. She looked at Nathan – looked at the treats and tail up and – oh I can do this – follow the treats. She is treat, happy voice and toy motivated.

She even had dogs trying to get in her space – no issue.

She was extremely attentive, loose lead on heel and had only been on a lead twice before less than 5 minutes each as Nathan hadn’t got around to it. She picked up ‘by me’ fast – leave the treat etc – all fast – everything she had thrown at her – she learned by showing her one or 2 times.

Her recovery and fast pickup on all commands gave our instructor the idea that she was trained before class. She wasn’t. Our instructor also commented how she struts with confidence as if the room is hers. She was amazed. She does have a strut as if to say – look at me!

I was very surprised as we did not socialize her due to not having her shots other than visiting dogs and our own. She hadn’t gone anywhere she never been before. Kat, Fiona and Treasure are the only dogs that speak their minds with Risa.

After we picked her up from Beth’s we visited Yvonne and she had her tail down for quite sometime – weeks ago but still was a concern that she would need some work. She came here and the tail never went down so I said hmm maybe just new places so I was ready for lots of work.

It was a pleasant surprise. Wish I had taken a video to show her bounce in her step – her – what’s next daddy – can we do that again. Oh I can’t have the treat now – okay – I will wait – now can I have it. She did a heel loose lead right away – now to get her to do it without paying attention to daddy till the end.

Thanks for indulging me in sharing a fun evening with our latest addition. Here I thought she was my dog and she didn’t even pay any attention to me.

By the way, want to see Blackstock in the light – country stores – this old tiny chapel building we are practicing in – looked quite fun to visit. Now the only thing that could have made it more fun is having Yvonne join us but that’s some travelling for her. It is for us – but I think further for her.

If she continues like this - we have a star in the making. It also helps that Nathan gets better as he keeps at it. He indeed has his comfort level. The dogs can tell too!

PS: we have a puppy visiting overnight today and then off to Amsterdam. The dogs are going to have fun - another puppy in the house - photos to come. hehehehe

If you are doing the show thing - train, train and train in various environments - obedience, games, handling but make it fun. We decided stand/stay was in the cards vs. sit as yu usually do not teach a show dog sit but I think Treasure would 'get' it. Still - best not to.

Danger Lurks in Havanese Curiousity

We work in our home and that means we have computers and dogs and computers mean cords. When one has a puppy, you have to spray, get the cords out of the way and supervise.

If you have a dog like Treasure, well then that's a challenge but one worth doing. So, we got a rack that hitches to the underside of my desk and handles all the cords. When we had our last puppy, it was as easy as placing a crate in front of the mess but not with our Treasure. Where there is smoke, well she lives up to the name - there's fire.

So, go the extra mile to protect your treasured one. We treasure our Treasure and are doing so and you can too.

We are off to class tonight with Treasure. We didn't get much sleep. My camera was on the fritz and I thought it was user idiocy but no our repair place Henry's also had the same issue until guess what - they replaced the battery. Hmm but that means my battery is bad. No - they put mine back in and its still working so I may be able to get photos of tonight. We shall see.

Tomorrow we will report how she did considering she has had the lead on twice never been around big dogs other than our two and the one she was born with - well it may be an adventure but a must when it comes to helping your little one find their coping skills. You do it with slow, consistent exposure in a safe environment and what better way than a class with a fab instructor.

More tomorrow!

Who's the Doormat: Havanese Style

I was lying down, minding my own business when Kat decided I was his doormat. The good news was that from his elevated position he was able to hold the other nine dogs at bay. All thought this was a wonderful game. Note that I am not lying on the floor but on an ottoman. Kat teleported himself from the floor onto my back without effort. The rest of the pack came running from every direction. Fun! Fun! My turn daddy. I drew the line when Terra thought she’d emulate her more compact friend.
Nathan

Havanese Treasure's Training Begins

Darlah and I both feel that formal dog training is of utmost importance. I don’t care how many dogs you’ve previously owned, there is always something to learn and the socialization aspects to any class are not to be underestimated.

We attended class all over Toronto until we finally found the class and the instructor that we liked, that we felt taught our values. We’ve subsequently taken courses with her with many of our dogs. They teach positive reinforcement. They use clicker training or an upbeat YES to mark the dogs correct behaviour, followed by a reward.

Five of our dogs have taken lessons with her, some dogs such as Kat took more than one level of obedience training. He is a natural.

Later this week we will start classes with Treasure. As she is destined to be shown in the Conformation Ring there are some aspects of obedience training that affect what will be required from her in the show ring. For example, in the show ring the dog never sits. She will stand, walk, stack and patiently allow herself to be examined on the table. In obedience the sit command is one of the most important.

When we took obedience courses with Abigail and Fiona we actually had them learn stand instead of sit but I’m thinking with Treasure we’ll teach her sit and then teach her stand and just make sure she learns the stand command really well, as did Kat.

We also attend Handling classes with Kat, Abigail and Fiona as they are going to all be shown this year, as is Treasure. I’m thinking she’ll take both the obedience course and Handling classes and they will overlap. The socialization will be good for her.

A different type of leash is used in each class. In any case she is very treat motivated which will help teach her what we expect her to do. And Treasure is very independent. She needs the training regardless. Formal classes are always a good thing providing the class is well controlled and the atmosphere a positive one.

Nathan

PS: Darlah here - This is the 2nd time Treasure had a lead on and Treasure was none too happy. We will do it tomorrow (class starts Thursday) and eventually they see it as a positive especially when they get treats and get taken places. Dear old Fiona had to be almost dragged around the block before she said - okay - I guess this isn't so bad. I gently tugged her 3/4 of the way around our cul-de-sac until she gave in. She was a mighty stubborn one. But Fiona likes to get her own way no matter what. She needs a firm idea of rules and boundaries always in a positive way. Treasure seems to have an even stronger personality so classes should be interesting. watch for our Thursday night update or maybe Friday as we are driving over an hour away to go to this one instructor we love in Blackstock. call us crazy but the instructor and how she runs a class matters, imho.

Attitude Havanese Style

The dogs here manage to have a grand amount of fun each and every day. We could ALL learn something from that. No matter what is going on, they always invest time to letting loose and playing their hearts out.

Your goal in life should be to make sure your Havanese has that spirit of fun in them and you in turn get inspired by it.

Life is way too short not to enjoy the 'fun' the smiles and just letting loose and enjoying your Havanese and each other.

Havanese in Action

This actually should be titled, it pays to get a DSLR - even an entry level one like my Canon Rebel XSI.

I think it was Rick Sammon, a professional photographer and instructor who said you have to take photos of something you are passionate about but he also said you have to get of your backyard to get interesting photos.

I guess he didn't ever have a couple of Havanese in his backyard or he would change his mind.

The action that you can capture will get you wondering how you ever survived with a point and shoot.

Oh, you can use a Canon Rebel XSI as a point and shoot but you would be missing all that creativity that goes into capturing your passion and the dogs are our passion.

Even my telephoto lens that I got when I bought the package can capture shots like this.

I am rather new at this capturing dog business with anything but a point and shoot.

I have to admit, the crew here makes it easy as they are always having moments you go wow - look at that.

That Abigail was chasing Shoshi by the tail and loving it - both of them, actually. What is quite special about this is when we acquired Shoshi way back when, she was a timid dog that hid under a chair when we did obedience training but not anymore.

The pack has been great for her and she even tells the others off when they should be told off where before she would tolerate it.

This was her today introducing play and then getting Abigail to chase her and then when she was done, our guest Mystery also chased her and so did our guest - who is going home today - Benny. They were having a rip roaring time outside today.

People wonder why we do this - and now you know - the smiles - the memories and its plain worth it for what they give to you.

Till tomorrow...

Buy yourself a Canon Rebel XSI - hehhehehe

It's a Cold Day Out

Today we were lucky enough to have two visitors come and we have Mystery visiting us.


It's been a truly fun house here lately. Just when we think we are getting down to just our own, another comes to visit.

Benny goes home tomorrow. Then we will be down to 1 visitor for a couple of weeks and it's fine with us.


Well, we had some sad news. Yvonne's old lady Britney lived a full life to a ripe old age of 14 and this weekend, her life, as we know it came to an end. Anyone who knew her remembers her smitten with Kat - a tad too much women for him and playing with the pups. Our life is richer for having a little Britney in our lives.

Our heart goes out to our dear friends, Alex and Yvonne. Thank you for sharing her with us!

Winter Stylin'

We just received a photo of Coach and Sassy winter stylin' . Now this photo brought a smile to my face and that's a good thing lately!

John tells us that Coach is a big goofy guy and Sassy is 10 times smarter than him. I imagine that means sassy deaks him out. I hear they laugh and laugh with these two.

Nice to hear!

Well, we came back from the vets to find that Whitney is in great health despite her age. Terra has something going on with her back that we suspected was her hips instead and Treasure is now sore from her shots and Shoshi didn't even flinch from her shots. One never knows.

It was a long day - off to watch TV and veg and have fun in the snow tomorrow. Hope you do too.

Stick Eating Havanese

What do you do about a dog that eats everything she gets her mouth on?

Correct, correct, correct - is all you can do.

Treasure knows better but finds a stick and tries to hide. Yep - they actually have that thought process - how can I get what I want despite them saying no.

But if you keep at it - it eventually sinks in and they get past that chewing - teething stage.

Treasure is in the midst of losing teeth.

Today she had a toilet paper holder - the cardboard paper insert and Fiona is hot after her. Such fun!

Now to add to this story – she intimidated Terra out of her bed as she wants big beds – the bigger the better.

She is surely missing the pups but making the best of the adults.

Tomorrow - shots at vets.

Happy New Year's Eve

Here's the crew - well almost the crew. (minus Whitney our old lady retriever and we also had Oreo before he went home and Louis who goes home tonight.)

They are waiting to usher in the New Year.

I try to have fun with the camera and dogs our our passion. I went outside first - sat at the end of the deck and waiting for the crew to come running out towards me all to capture the money shot of Treasure flying in the air, pumping for all she was worth to catch up to the rest of the crew.

Here, Treasure playing catch up.

It's moments like these that make my heart beat a tad faster and my mouth curl up in a smile as I realize what life is truly about!

From the home of Talemaker Havanese to yours, we wish you the very best new year!

Havanese Relationships

Do some Havanese like other Havanese more than another? Just like people, I would say yes. They show it in various ways - getting excited about a certain dog that comes over to stay. That doesn't mean they won't play with all but there's something extra special at times.

Rufus, our visitor that went home today really connected with Treasure where he would stare at her in bed and get extra close to her watching her sleep. It was interesting to watch night after night.

Oreo and Louis goes home tomorrow and Benny on the 4th.

Then Treasure will have to connect with her pack mates and us. heh

Watching our visitors and our pack reacts makes for interesting times. You learn so much and so do pups that come to visit. By the time Rufus and Oreo is heading home, they have learned to successfully play and interact in a pack. That's a good thing and then they too will be confident and excited about that next time.

Multiple Havanese Feeding

We have another food hound in the house. She is fully prepared to eat her own food and then run right over and eat everyone else's. She has no qualms about shimmying up to someone's bowl, checking out what the competition has and going in for the grab. She'll even try to intimidate them off their own food bowl. And our little Treasure is just 3 months old.

With only one dog, it's a piece of cake but with more than one, you can't just leave the bowl down especially if one will try and eat it all.

Treasure has style with her food - or shall I say everyone else's food. She thinks life is better in the next bowl, always. It doesn't matter if she is eating the same exact thing - it's a statement of her perception of her own position in the pack and as of right now, she thinks Risa and Kat are the only two above her and that includes the two Golden Retrievers. So if she decides she wants your food the proper response in her mind is to back off and let her have it.

She tends to look around, checks out if anyone is noticing what she is doing - including us, then she goes in for the kill and depending on what dog, she may or may not get away with it until we interfere and put her back at her bowl.

Ah, the food experience of the young and fearless.

Havanese Fears: Slow Conditioning

Have you ever seen your puppy look at something and hesitate or give you a look as if they are concerned about that inanimate object? Puppies do go through fear stages and when they do not understand something, it's important that you do not coddle them or validate their concerns. Instead, you should help them realize there is nothing to worry about. How can you do that?

As you can see, Treasure noticed a piece of tissue paper under the door and couldn't figure out what it was. She kept looking at it with a 'what is it' stance and backing up - then going forward. How did we handle it? Well, I use keywords and say it in almost a baby talk voice. They don't 'get' it at first but after you do it with several items, they get that those keywords means there is nothing to worry about. Of course this also means that you have a correct relationship with your little one where they TRUST you. Without trust, none of this works.

I use the words, 'silly girl' and I put their paw on it or pull it out and examine it - whatever it takes. By doing this consistently instead of saying - oh poor thing - snuggling her and or laughing about it, you have helped in the slow conditioning process. You have helped your little one develop their coping skills. This is critical. It will give your dog a base of coping skills to work from in the future.

Fears are simply not understanding what something or someone is capable of.

When a pup whines as it fears walking up and down the stairs, their canine mom often guides them down almost in a pushing them up or down fashion as if to say, 'get on with it'. They don't say - poor thing. They do not coddle and when we humanize it, we see this as mean but in reality, it is the best thing she can do. She teaches her pup that there is nothing to be concerned about by getting it to face its fears and get on with it.

If you continue this method, your Havanese may still react to something strange but will recover much faster. Once coping skills are in place, the rest falls into place. You may even find that a hesitant Havanese by nature will be more adventurous when using this method.

All it takes is love, patience and guidance to help your Havanese become all they can be. It's worth it!

Tomorrow we will talk about puppy bites, chewing and all that fun stuff.

PS: I should tell you, Treasure was seen running too fast for a photo - just like a banshee with that blue tissue paper in her mouth and Havanese do love toilet paper and paper. I never saw a dog rip paper into bits so fast and so many little pieces as the Havanese.

TIP: If you are experiencing high winds, get your little one outside and have some fun with it. This way they won't fear the wind the next time. We had the crew out having a roaring grand time despite the rain. Personally, I love wind like this.

Family, Moments & Havanese

Today we are watching the melt - well the dogs are and Treasure is the very worst of the crew in coming back in next to Fiona. It's as if she says, 'Talk to the Hand' or 'I can't HEAR you!'

Isn't it wonderful when a dog goes supposedly deaf when it has better things to do? Yes, you can use that keyword, 'treat' and they will come running but they should come when they hear their name and not after you say it 3 times either.

But sometimes you aren't as interesting as what is out there so you have to up the ante and use coercion.

It's sort of necessary when your target is soaken wet like this one and hasn't had any formal training - likes running under decks and playing catch me if you can. But you have to admit she looks cute all wet and everything.

How do we get her inside when a call to her name doesn't work? We either have to go get her or use the treat tactic. School will be in as soon as she gets her next shot and the visitors go home. Training in all sorts of ways are in store for her - in a fun way.

If you want a balanced dog - training truly helps and helps them to be the dog you adore but better yet - that others adore.

Havanese & Holidays

With the hectic lifestyle we all experience around the holidays, it is important to take a breath and get in touch with your furry pal Havanese. They are what helps you realize what life is about. They have a wild abandonment in their play and they get you to find your laughter - if allowed.

They also look downright funny with those snowballs but if you are like me - it's not fun to deal with them. So, take a moment and put a coat on them when the weather is filled with wet, heavy snow and you will be glad you did.

Did you know some Havanese watch TV? Put on the pet channel and turn the sound off and watch as some react to that animal running across the screen. Not all will but some do. It's enough to make you realize as the quality of the TVs increase - so do their abilities to watch.

In the Dog House Havanese Style

There's that tongue again sticking it out daring any dog to come close enough so she can pounce and play her heart out. The problem with Treasure having a rip roaring grand time with the puppies here (Oreo, Rufus, Fiona, Abigail, Benny) is she only wants them so we make sure she has some down time.

Treasure is an absolute nut case at times. She pounces, hides, attacks and takes on 3 dogs at once. She's small - though that tummy is not but that surely doesn't stop her.

It's going to be sad for her when the last puppy goes home on the 31st and Louis who comes tomorrow also goes then. Benny will be here till the 4th and then we start training the little munchkin as we will be down to our own pack.

Oreo and Benny was a tad overwhelmed with the crew and they have loosened up quite a bit where Oreo has come into his own. It takes a day or two at times to get your bearings and that's a GOOD thing as they learn new skills. We do it in such a way to make them feel secure and get to where they need to. We think Oreo has done just that as he is now a ball of - can't get enough of this play' dawg. It's a riot to watch and Benny is playing one on one with various dogs and enjoying his moments. That's what it is all about and Rufus - well he came in not needing to get his bearings - and that's unusual. No right or wrong - we are all just different and we are what we experience. It's like going to a party and you don't know a soul. Some wing it and others have to get their bearings.

If you celebrate Christmas - I hope you got everything you wanted and if not, take a breath - look at your fur kids and realize you did.

To a very enjoyable day. We - well I will be brushing dogs as they have mats and knots from yesterdays wet experience and it may take me half the day but I will do it watching the TV and spending one on one time with all.

Enjoy!

Havanese Rule

We are having a family argument - extended family about Boxers ruling but we think Havanese rule and they don't drool like Boxers. Little Fiona thinks she rules the house but that's another story.

Here Fiona is standing on the recliner's arm watching everyone. As you may or may not be aware, Havanese like to sit, sleep and yep stand on high spots. Fiona is so confident in it that she does a one arm stance.

Our Treasure continues to live up to her name. She is seen taken on all the pups all by herself and even Abigail who thinks Treasure is the best okay thing she has seen for quite awhile. Perhaps it is due to her being new and she doesn't back down.

She seems to already think she is ALL that!

We had Yvonne's crew here overnight due to the storms. You should have seen them all go for a couch dive right on Nathan where I was left with just Downsey. What was THAT about? Usually it's an equal opportunity thing around here but maybe it was due to the reality that I had a brush in my hand. It couldn't be that - could it? hehehe

We had a whopping - guess how many dogs here yesterday. (We just got a new higher gate for our front door as Wasabi and Kat like to jump the smaller one and this one has a door)

It was fun but now it's watch TV, get warm and chill. Hope you have a great night if you celebrate Xmas. Enjoy and don't forget the furry ones in the bus-y-ness of it all.

Catch you all tomorrow!!

Photoshop or Real

Someone thought we may have Photoshop'd Treasure on to that box but we didn't. She's just an interesting thang that gives us great photo opportunities. We took about 4 of these to make sure we got a good one. She's really a true Treasure.

She plays hard and sleeps hard. She's had lots of opportunities here too.

Well, Wasabi, Fiona and Abigail went in for cerf and all passed.

It's tough getting the man in this house off the floor. One would think he is a permanent fixture at times but he is outside shoveling with 13 dogs - yep - Yvonne's crew is here and there's hardly a peep out o them unless someone rings the bell or ventures through the door.

From our house to yours - may you have the very best holiday season. More tomorrow when we have less dogs. ROFL!

Happy Holidays to All

Our Treasured one reminds us to ask, what is life without laughter?

During these holidays, take a moment to watch your Havanese.

Take a breath.

Get off the busy train and really watch.

If we can learn but one thing from them it would be that laughter deserves to be in our life and it can be obtained in so many ways.

Take the time to laugh in between the struggles and it will get you through.

Then when done, find a comfie place and take a nap and feel fresh and ever so rejuvenated. You can do it most anywhere - just do it.

If you pay attention, our dogs teach us so many critical things about what is important in life.

Hug them - hug each other - stay warm and have the very best holiday season yet!

PS: This little one needs a rest as we have 2 puppies visiting us starting tomorrow. Is she in for a treat or what!

Happy Holidays EVERYONE!

New Snow Fall in Toronto

Last Monday, our friend Holly flew from Florida to pick up her pup, Blazin.

It was 8 Celsius (46 Fahrenheit for our American friends) that day. All the snow had melted and it wasn’t half bad.

The very next morning it was -8C (17F).

Holly thankfully handed me off Blazin to take outside for his morning pee and ran away from the open door.

She thought she was going to freeze to death momentarily.

Meanwhile I was wearing jeans and a t-shirt under my ski jacket, bare feet slipped into clogs. There was no snow.

On Friday we drove to our Vet located an hour and change east of Toronto. We got caught in a major snow storm and ended up spending a few hours visiting with Yvonne and Alex before heading back so that the snow plows had a chance to clear the road, a sometime reality of our Canadian lifestyle.

As always my largest issue driving back was all those drivers on the road that don’t have a clue that snow covered roads and lousy visibility calls for a different mode of driving. Not everyone was clueless but there were a few complete nutcases that made up for it.

One 18 wheeler comes to mind. I fully expected to see him overturned before we got back to town. He certainly wasn’t allowing for any margin of error in a vehicle that could not stop on a dime in any conditions let alone those.

Between Friday’s snow storm and today’s snow fall our yard is no longer snow free. Snow banks are probably two feet high and I’ve taken turns with one of my sons shoveling out paths for the dogs in the backyard. The dogs love it. They go racing round and round the paths and every now and then sheer exuberance with life sends them flying over the top of the banks right into the piles of powdered snow.

Watching their wonderful antics compensates for the pain in my arms, shoulders and back from all that shoveling. I get absolutely no sympathy though. The kids think I’m still 30 and if I didn’t go out and shovel Darlah would and then I’d never hear the end of it.

When outside in winter always watch your dogs for signs of stress, cold affecting their pads and such. They do not have the body weight and metabolism of the larger dogs and cannot stay outside in extreme temperatures for any extended period of time.

The other night it was -20C (-4F) when I took the dogs for a walk. Actually with the wind chill factored in supposedly it felt like -30C (-22F). I can tell you without a doubt that it was very cold. That’s not the words I would normally use to describe the weather but I’m trying to keep this to a family rating. I only went once around our own block and in two cases I had to pick up a dog because their pads got to cold.

Even though we have a large selection of sweaters, jackets, even snow suits, in such cold weather never spend too much time outside with your Havanese.

I have a few pictures to share with you. As you can see, they love running in the snow. Their joy of life is a constant inspiration. I hope you enjoy them and remember, comments are always welcome. Darlah and I love interacting with any of you interested in interacting with us.
I’m off to walk a few dogs.
Nathan

Havanese Breeding Lessons

Sometimes life offers you things you have no clue why they unfold as they do. Yesterday we found out that Wasabi lost her pup(s). There is no reason. Could be anything from stress to wasn't viable - just have no clue why but it was highly suggested that we breed her next heat and do more than a 24 hour window. If you remember, I had pneumonia and Nathan was sick so we couldn't stay. As I said - not meant to be.

That means we will have summer pups if Wasabi's heat stays true to form. We will also breed her many times to avoid this issue.

Anyone who thinks breeding is easy - well it isn't if you really genuinely care about your dogs and we do more than you know.

Now on to happier moments. Kat had his preliminaries done - all was great and now he is doing his adults and the vets felt all was great. He also got a slew of shots and is a very sore boy today so we are hoping he is back to normal soon.

The vet loved Treasures patellas - thought her eyes were gorgeous and laughed about how compact and plump she was. Abigail is 10 and a half pounds and I swore she was heavier but she also was a plump thing and thinned out as she got older. Fiona is still a tiny thing with a good muscle mass.

This month we do cerfs (eyes) and next month Treasure gets her baer (hearing) and cardiac done. We believe in testing for us, our puppy people etc.

We had in and out white out conditions coming home yesterday and another storm coming on Sunday.

Treasure is a treasured addition. She reminds me of Fiona's spirit for life. We see her holding on to hair on one of the dogs with her mouth and them running and dragging her along. I have to get a video of it but I think I need to carry one around to catch it. It's a pure riot.

Well, I need to get coffee going. I don't have my fave bread for breakfast but I will deal and Kat is back in bed with Fiona and Nathan snoozing. You do not want to hear how Nathan was out with Kat this morning and the poor boy was in too much pain to do anything but lets just say, Nathan looked comical and had a lot of drafts, I suppose and we won't say anything more except he did have his cap on. The things we do for our dogs - but they are worth it - no?

PS: We are missing the Gidget already and hoping she has a truly great Xmas. We are having 2 Katsuro puppies coming on the 23rd. One is a steel grey, black with white sox and the other is Rufus that you saw - a myriad of tans and whites, cream.

Well hope you have a fab day. More later... Kiss the pups and really enjoy them - will ya?

Off to the Vets

We are off to the vets today through a huge snowstorm that may materialize or may not.

Treasure still thinks she is one of the big guys - go figure.

Rocky loves playing with Fiona and Treasure and Benny is coming tomorrow. Benny is a pup from Risa's last litter that is all grown up now.

Back to wondering where my camera is as Fiona, Treasure and Rocky are playing up a storm while the rest of us watch.

More later.>>

Fiona & Treasure Mucking It Up

Just thought I would share how very afraid Treasure is to play with the bigger guys (Fiona) - NOT! We hope you enjoy the rollover attitide of the Treasure and see Blazin' before he went south.

Baths, Food Hounds Havanese

My name is Treasure. As they say I am a treasured little thang. I need to get in so I can feed this fading belly. As you can see - they don't feed me much. Okay - they do but I want Wasabi's, that cutie visitor boy that plays with me Rocky and anyone else that eats too slow - in my opinion. I have a tummy to support.

The humans say - oh oh another alpha food hound. Now how will we survive? It's going to be fun having a little or is that a lot of treasured hair ball around.

Today Abigail had a bath and has taken to sleeping and sitting on a bed on my desk. She rather likes that - looking down at everyone. Rocky is way smitten by her. She's off to a vet visit this week along with Wasabi, Treasure, Katsuro and Fiona. So, we do baths here and there inbetween work so we get it all done.

Today, Gidget goes home - sniff sniff and is she going to get excited to see Audrey. We just adore the gal. Till the next time...

More later...

Seasonal Stylin' 101

The Treasure is missing her boy toy Blazin' who just left for warmer climates earlier this afternoon.

That Blazin' guy was getting all sorts of attention so now it's my turn to shine.

I am simply an understated beauty. I'm a gal with style and I like diamonds and cashmere and all that bling and soft stuff. HA! He's a guy who I just - well liked watching him but maybe we will strut our stuff together at the nationals. We shall see.

It's rather cold. It's sort of funny as I am not all that crazy about it being this cold but Blazin - well he loves it and now he will be baking in that delicious sunny experience. Oh well, my daddy promised me snuggles and nappies and I rather adore that!

More later...

No Pictures Please

Today the snow is melting so you miss all those surprises that crop up even though you believe you picked up everything every day. Nathan came in saying - how many bags did he fill saying - I look like a X bag poo pickup guy. Can you guess how he was dressed?

Oh boy - is he going to kill me on this one...

Snow Melting Moments

The snow is melting and Rocky seems to love playing with the little ones. Our problem is he is so fast and energetic that its hard to capture him. I keep getting partial shots of him but we will try - try again. His parents are in Costa Rica missing him. But rest assured - he is having a grand time at doggy camp.

Rocky seems to be totally smitten with Abigail. He also loves snow diving on the cover but today - warm rain and snow is fast disappearing as you can see in this photo. It means much brushing.

Gidget, our other visitor will be heading home in 2 days from now and is a total lovee. She sits with me and watches TV while I groom her each night and tends to look at me cross-eyed. I am not so sure that she is happy with this grooming business but we are going gentle and treating and massaging her at the end. That she ADORES.

Holly is coming for Blazin today so tomorrow we will be down to just Treasure. Will life ever be the same?

Oh and Treasure - well she's indeed an alpha - challenging Fiona and sometimes winning. Oh my - are we in trouble or what? Well - it will surely be fun times here.

Off to get a puppy fix and get some shut-eye then work.

More later...

Balls of Hair

I think it's called Wrestlemania Havanese Style except I think they manage to be much more exciting? Try it sometime!

The pups are at it again and Blazin's new mom comes tomorrow and he will be off on Tuesday to the warmth of the sun - sniff sniff. We will all miss him. Gidget goes home to her mom on Wednesday and Rocky just started his adventure here and will be hanging out, getting into a ton of fun till Sunday.

Rocky and Gidget are here all managing to enjoy the pups and find play time like none other. It's grand but that wet snow was geting wetter and so were the dogs. So off I go to finish some pages and grom some dogs.

We also got to see another Katsuro and Lola's son - 4 white paws like grandma Risa, small, black and turning steele grey. What a face. The 2 siblings will be hanging out over the holidays here - so will Louis and Benny!

Till tomorrow - unless Nathan has something to post. :-)

Havanese Puppy Moments EXPOSED

The first time you have a child the chances are you got up 72 times that first night to check the baby.

Every new parent I ever met did so.

Last night Darlah and I slipped into our usual routine. She went to sleep in anticipation of an early start to the day and I checked the puppies 72 times. (ps: Darlah here - so did I but he never seems to know I didn't get much sleep - heh) I get little sleep through the night but we know that the puppies are safe.

Darlah takes over at daybreak and in theory I finally sleep for a few more hours. Of course my secret hidden agenda was that I spent the night bonding with Treasure and Darlah didn't. shhhh.

I know everyone's kid or puppy is the very best most awesome thing since kids or puppies were invented. We raised many of those children, the most wonderful creatures in the world, until they became teenagers. Then they knew everything and no longer needed us. We've done the same with puppies. But I have to say right now that Treasure and Blazin are simply amazing.

As you know, our Havanese sleep on the bed. Last night that meant that eight Havanese, including Gidget and Rocky (visitors) were sleeping on the bed PLUS the two puppies. Darlah placed a soft dog's donut bed on our bed between us and put the puppies into it to sleep. After 10 minutes or so I gave up and took the puppies back down to the floor where we played a roaring good game of retriever and tag and wrestle for about another half hour until they calmed down enough that I figured I could try again. I put them both back into that donut bed. Blazin curled up and went to sleep. Treasure decided no way she's sleeping in this thing and crawled out and up against me. Oh oh. Shoshi was displaced. Jockeying for position continued throughout the night. At one point I had Risa on the pillow at the top of the bed, head pointed towards me, guarding her daddy. Rocky was sleeping on the top of my own pillow, head snuggled against the side of my neck on the right. On the left was the donut bed with Blazin and my left arm leaning against him from the outside so that I could feel movement if he decided to go walkabout. Just below the donut was Treasure, against my chest. Just below Treasure was Shoshi who was not happy with Treasure being so close to her space but wasn't quite sure how to deal with it. Kat was sleeping on his back between my legs. Abigail was sleeping on the outside of my left leg and keeping an eye out for Rocky who was prepared to play with her 24/7. Fiona was either up against Darlah on her other side or between us. Wasabi was at the top of the second bed all by herself, pregnant, on her back, snuggled up against a pillow with a chew toy beside her head. Gidget was a foot below her.

All of the above was subject to change at any time.

We also showed Blazin and Treasure how to go up the doggy steps onto the bed. By this morning our 10 week old Treasure and Holly's 11 week old Blazin were running up and down the stairs, on and off the bed, at will.

Darlah took them downstairs around 5am. The puppies went outside, did their business, then got into some serious play time.

I came down and fed them all at 7. The puppies inhaled their food. Once again Treasure figured she'd help Blazin eat his bowl of food and then work on hers and once again I placed her back in front of her own bowl. When she was done eating, in a time that would make Risa proud, she then shoved herself into Blazin bowl pushing him right out of her way. Too bad for her, Blazin had already cleaned out his bowl too. That's ok, Treasure is nothing but optimistic. A minute later I saw her trying to push with her head against the head of our almost 14 year old Retriever Whitney who easily outweighs her by 75 lbs, to get to Whitney's bowl. She'd have about as much luck pushing against a brick wall then to move Whitney off her food. But I have to say I love the attitude.

Inside, outside, off the deck into the snow, on the deck, around the paths, back in the house, the puppies played for 4 hours and now have finally been placed in the x-pen we set up beside Darlah's desk and gone to sleep. I might climb into the x-pen and join them.

Nathan

Out We Go & Sleep Havanese Talemaker Style

Well, Rocky our visitor and the little ones had their first night here. Rocky is smitten with Abigail. We think he is madly in love with her - hahaha

The little ones, after a fast and furious fun game of retrieve and Treasure always seems to get the toy or steals it away - they ran up the stairs to the bed - yep - they can go up and down already and tuckered out till 530am - dry as ever. Here they are this morning running for the door. They are already getting to know the routine. It's not to say they won't haver accidents but its up to us to watch their cues. So far, they are doing well.

When they do their business outside, we praise them profusely and Blazin' gets WAY excited bouncing up and down and Treasure does a flip - yeah you got that right - a flip. They are so agile - it's unbelievable and they are adjusting more than fine. Can't wait to watch the visitors and Treasure today.

The crew is adjusting fast to small ones being around and Gidget - our other visitor - had her maternal thing going on.

Wasabi seems to have grown overnight. She went from - are you sure you are pregnant to - absolutely and she is staying close - snuggling and playing with her toys - getting way maternal. She was being so motherly so Bernie and Shimmer - know your pups are doing more than well.

Havanese Puppies

Let me share an email exchange with you. Beth owns Rockhurst, from where we got both Abigail and Treasure, located north of Ottawa. Holly owns Smile Havanese in Florida. When Darlah and I drove to Beth’s home yesterday we picked up both our Treasure and Holly’s Blazin. Holly will be flying to Toronto to pick him up in a few days. For your reading pleasure, here’s a slightly edited version of the email exchanges that followed:

Holly: How's my boy doing? How's Treasure doing?

Nathan: I am sad to say that after spending a night and a day with Blazin I feel he is totally unsuited for a life in Florida. He walks funny, he’s clearly half blind, his tail is undetectable, his teeth are simply missing and he has the most aggressive and confrontational attitude. In fact, I think it would be best if he simply stayed here with us where we will provide the poor thing with the comfort he deserves in his remaining months.

Just kidding.

Holly, Blazin is UNBELIEVABLE! What a star. You’re going to love him to pieces but if you don’t then I’m on record right now saying that I’ll take him off your hands, no problem, and I swore I’d never have another male in the house. He is absolutely delicious. Darlah and I both think Blazin is gorgeous in every way.

Treasure of course is even better! It’s a trial having two such puppies in the house at once. Abigail made sure they both realized this was her house and she was in charge. Kat made sure that at least one of them was female and he’ll keep an eye on Blazin until he’s out the door from his harem. Paris, Risa and Wasabi sniffed them up and down, decided while they were puppies they weren’t their puppies and Shoshi is ready to play with them. Fiona was neutral unless or until they got to close to her daddy and then she asked them both nicely to get back or she’d rip their lungs out through their respective throats. Blazin jumped on Terra’s head to say hello. Terra just let her, having spent 6 years as the overly Havanese in the Golden Retriever body. Almost 14 year old Whitney, our old Golden Retriever, isn’t quite sure who they are or why they are here but when she wakes up she’ll give them a sniff.

No doubt Darlah will come up with some pictures later.

Holly: Nathan, You are HYSTERICAL!!!! I started reading your e-mail and just laughed harder and harder! I especially like the fact that Blazin' has a tail that's undetectable! How did you ever come up with that? I'm really looking forward to seeing you all again and thank you so much for the play by play with how each of your dogs is reacting to their new housemates. I got my copy of Our Havanese, I love the pictures and articles you and Darlah contributed, and Beth too!! Give my pitiful boy a big kiss and hug from us, I'm sure he needs it, and check my bag when I leave to ensure I don't have 2 puppies! Just a word of caution. Holly and the gang.

Nathan: We look forward to your arrival. Your pitiful boy will be in good hands until then. I’ll give him the big kiss and hug but he’s going to think it is yet another from me. Thank you for your kind words.

Darlah has made a notation to stop you for a strip search before letting you leave the house. I, of course, will be in the other room with your puppy. I’d advise you to make a note to ensure you actually leave here with Blazin.

Darlah: Holly, he can’t help himself.

The two just ate. We put two bowls out and Blazin dug in and so did Treasure in HIS bowl. She growled at him as if to say it’s mine. Blazin didn’t take his head out of the bowl. Nathan put Treasure at her bowl and the contents vanished and then she was back at Blazin’s bowl trying to push him out of the way. The gal is a CHOW gal.

They are doing great. They truly are. No car sickness and on our way back, we stopped at Yvonne’s for a few minutes and she had serious thoughts of talking you out of him so she could have him all to herself and she only does girls. Does that tell you how she felt about the boy?

Nathan: To continue Darlah’s message about their eating habits …

They finished eating and decided to take a nap. Blazin took the tunnel, lying on top and flattening it to his comfort. Treasure took the donut bed. They slept for about an hour. When they woke up I immediately carried them both out to the backyard surrounded by “the pack”. Treasure almost immediately crouched and peed and I praised her profusely. The she started circling and 30 seconds later did the rest of her business and I congratulated her as if she was the smartest girl on the planet. Meanwhile I have no idea what Blazin would have done if Abigail would have left him alone. She was busy lying on top of him and he was loving it and coming right back at her. I tell you this so that you shouldn’t worry, Treasure will be completely house trained in no time reinforcing the effort Beth’s already put into it. Blazin, on the other hand, will be learning to do his business only while under a dog while being pushed down into the snow. Or, I’ll praise him when he pees on the carpet. Wait, I don’t have carpet. Just kidding again. Of course he’ll be totally trained to do his business in the snow. Wait, you have no snow. You’re doomed.

And so another day at Talemaker Havanese draws to a close.

Nathan

Road Trippin' Havanese Puppy Style

We started road tripping at 11ish yesterday and didn't get to Beth's (Rockhurst Havanese) till 730ish. The freeway was closed. We stopped to eat but that was about it. But was it worth it? Yep!

Beth was a gracious host. We got to be surrounded by dogs and we got to take Treasure (pictured here) and Blazin' who leaves at the start of next week. Holly is flying up to get him and will she be excited.

On our way back home, we stopped at Yvonne's for a few minutes and the pup duo had a socialization moment. Yvonne's old lady Beardie is so great with the little ones.

We got home - ate, played with pups and then Rocky came to visit. He's settling in greatly and he happens to look a lot like his dad - Coolio.

Well - we had an exciting time these last 2 days. Will the pups sleep in bed or in their play pen or? What do you think?

We will let you know tomorrow!