Life Is So Much Easier Now!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

My DH and I were talking last night about how different things are this Spring versus last year with the Doods.  They are so much easier now that they're a little older.  I decided to post this blog for people who are "in the trenches" with puppies.  Unless they are having "tummy issues" the boys only have to go out to potty four times a day now...and they always tell us when it's time.  They have pretty much stopped destroying toys....the new squeaker toys I bought last week are still fine....yes, this is a miracle.  They never, ever chew anything in the house....they know what's theirs and they leave everything else alone.  Of course, if I don't have the new toys well hidden they WILL find them (Guinness and his amazing nose).  Murph has totally sworn off his counter surfing...that was just a brief period.  The barking has almost completely stopped...there are workmen outside right now putting in a new front walkway, and there wasn't a single "woof" from the guys.  They sleep late....very late. They're fine to be left alone now (although I still keep it to fairly short periods).  I can walk them together now, and I feel confident that they are under control.  They play like true brothers, and they have developed a wonderful bond.  Yesterday, Guinness had one of his "reverse sneezing" episodes, and Murphy was so concerned....he just kept licking his face.  They have both calmed down so much....twenty minutes of ball throwing or a good walk makes them sleep for hours.  They are way less reactive when someone comes to the door.  When the trainer came yesterday he walked right into the house....the boys were sleeping in the kitchen, and all they did was lift their heads.  Guinness walked up to greet him....Murph didn't even move.  It's truly amazing how much a little maturity (and of course training) can change things.  They are a joy, and all the "work" that went into that first year and a half was so worth it.  Clearly, they're not "finished" yet....I want them to be reliable off leash, and that's our next step, and Murph still has a few "quirks" that we're working on.  So, if you've still at that stage where you have days when you want to "pull your hair out"....remember, there's a light at the end of the tunnel.

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

I agree Jane. At 1.5 years Tara calmed down so much that our guests would say that she seemed like a different dog! I don't know how it happened but I agree that it is the result of a LOT of time spent in training that first year and a half. And like you said....on going! I'm happy for you and your household!

[Brandi]

Good lord I pray you are right.....lol.  Mine are growing up slowly but surely, but it's a challenge sometimes lol

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

It took a couple of fosters under a year old to make me realize just how mellow our girls had become.  Having a young one back in the house was a real awakening!  So, ditto to all that Jane says, it really does get better.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Guinness and Murphy, You guys are making us look bad! Love, Fudge and Vern

[Lynda Kamrath]

Thanks for reminding me.  Harpo is constantly into something but maybe it is because he is very smart and wants to experience everything.  Groucho is just an older (5 years) dog and is fine off leash and follows directions.  When I want him to go on leash, I just call him and he comes and sits down while I put on his leash.  He never tears up anything and seldom steals anything off the counter (a few things he just can't resist).  Harpo, on the other hand, does it all.  Nice reminder that it does get better with age.

[Frannie & Callie]

Jane - I totally know what you mean, and am so happy you're not having to be on constant "lookout"!

[Jane, Rooney & Stuart]

Awww - Guiness & Murphy - you guys ROCK!!!!!