Owning a Miniature Poodle

Posted by Jeanne on December 28, 2008

The miniature poodle, contrary to popular belief, is not a delicate or an “effete” animal, In fact, the miniature poodle is a wiry, sturdy, healthy dog, not prone to respiratory diseases or skin ailments.

Keeping them groomed and smart looking takes very little more time than keeping the average long-haired dog in good shape. Also, very important: the miniature poodle DOES NOT SHED and has no doggy odor. However, this does not mean that people who are allergic to dogs will not be allergic to poodles.

They were originally bred for and used as retrievers and water dogs. However, through the centuries their hunting potentialities have not been fully exploited, although in England miniature poodles are used for hunting small game birds.

They can learn anything because of their high intelligence and their spirit of cooperation, This, of course, has been proved by their marvelous records in obedience work as well as in their every day lives. We once had a miniature poodle who would start to dance on his hind feet as soon as we turned the stereo on. He kept dancing until he found my daughter who was three at the time – they would then dance together!

Owning a poodle is an unique experience. Every one I have ever owned has been a complete individual. It is really difficult to fully describe their gaiety, gameness, and their capacity for love and companionship. You have not lived until you have owned a miniature poodle.

Bulldog Character and Training

Posted by Jeanne on December 18, 2008

Bulldogs love a walk or a romp. Unless you have two pups living together, it is an excellent idea to have a regular period of exercise, preferably a walk on a lead. The sooner this is started, the easier it is for man and dog. While a three-month-old puppy will take just right now to the collar and lead, a seven-month-old one is more inclined to fight the process than to cooperate.

Bulldogs, from early puppyhood, want to do what you want. Sometimes a youngster seems not to want to understand, but that is more over-anxiety than stubbornness.

When he is small, there is nothing more engaging than a bulldog puppy on your lap. Suddenly, he is six months old, weighs 50 pounds, and still thinks he can sit on you and rest his head on your shoulder! The time to teach him his place is when he is still small enough for you to put him there. It is your job to visualize the size he will someday be. He can’t know it, and he generally doesn’t want to annoy you.

Every bulldog should have a place of his own where he can retire for peace and quiet. It may be a box in the basement, the foot of your bed, or under the kitchen table. Wherever you choose will suit him, as long as it is always available to him. I prefer a spot with a gate that can be securely closed. No matter how much you love a dog, time comes when he should be put away for awhile. He will not resent being confined to his own quarters.