Wanting To Add A 2nd Doodle...

[The Berry Oaks Doodle Ranch]

So, I've convinced my husband to add a 2nd Doodle to our family. We would like to adopt from DRC...any help in what to expect with two Labradoodles. Our Guinness is 1 1/2 and is still very playful.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I think you are wise to keep the same name or at least a close facsimile. We would have kept Clancy's original name, but Buck wasn't his original name (he didn't answer to anything we could come up with) and I was not going to yell that name in a dog park and be misunderstood. He has learned his new name - it took about a month or so before we realized he really comes when called by his name.

[The Berry Oaks Doodle Ranch]

Yes, we will be keeping his name as Rosco...he's 3yrs old so he's had it for awhile and used to it.

[Barbara Burrows]

What wonderful news, Joyce. Guinness was only 5 months old when I met you at Belinda's in Richmond. I know you and DH will love having a second doodle. Mine have opposite personalities but get along great.

[The Berry Oaks Doodle Ranch]

Hello all, I'm sorry it has taken me so long to reply....in the misdt of all this, a friend of ours called and invitied us down to the Eastern Shore(this is in MD.) for a few days so we couldn't pass this up. So,this where we got the call from Jacquie I was just jumping up-down(AND I DO NOT JUMP). We know this will be an adjustment for us and for Guinness. In the past few months Guinness has grown up quite a bit. We've already started telling Guinness he's getting a little brother,even though Rosco is a year older he is only 35lbs...where Guinness is 52lbs(and solid muscle) from all the running he does. Adrianne, it must have something to do with Labradoodles. We've been to some of the Doodle Romps and Guinness also will just rome around or he would look for a ball to chase and yes even when he is at day care they tell us he's a people dog. But, he does inter act with certain doggie friends and willing to share his toys....SO,much said this too shall pass. And, I'm not sure when we will be picking him up...So stay tune for more.

[Adrianne Matzkin]

I am so thrilled for you!!

I totally agree with what Jane said! Those who know Samantha know she was never a dog's dog - she just didn't play with any other dog. Even on the beach, with 50 other doodles she would look for a ball to play with.
Now she engages Charli and Mickey in play sessions. It makes my heart melt when I see her start the chase game, or grab a rug toy or Moo and put it in Charli's face in order to get her to play. A few weeks ago when we were at the beach Samantha actually played with the Doodles - until a ball showed up.

That doesn't mean they don't have their arguments - Samantha gives Charli her little warning growl which will continue to grow until Charli backs off. I do not get involved. They also hump each other - dominance issue - I used to attempt to stop it but I was told by a friend/trainer who I trust very deeply to "back the Doodle off" and let them work it out. She was right - they do.

I also feed them together. They share 1 water bowl. I used to try to keep the other out of the other's bowl but no longer. MY issue - not theirs! Samantha 'guards' her 1/2 eaten marrow bones but Charli learned to sit about 3' away and whine at her to give it up. I would be sitting near them but didn't get involved unless I got uncomfortable with the learning lesson. They worked it out.

My advice - sit back and let them work it out. They do! You will learn to understand each one's body language and know when to get involved and when just to watch.

You have a huge family in the DRC and here in DK to help in any way you need.

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

Yeah ....... I love it when our rescues stay in "the family"! Can't wait to hear more!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

I am beyond excited for you, Joyce! I was waiting all day yesterday to see if you'd hear something. I'm guessing right now you're feeling a little overwhelmed....like okay what do we do now. I know that we found out that we got Murph on a Friday night and were able to pick him up on Sunday. I spent all day Saturday wandering around not knowing what to do next. I remember feeling super excited but worried...I wanted to do everything right, and I wanted to be sure Guinness was going to be okay with having a brother. Hopefully you're not as much of a worrier as I am! LOL Anyway, it all turned out perfectly, although the first two weeks were an "adjustment" time. I'll be dying to hear all your stories. When are you going to pick Rosco up?

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Ouch!

[Jacquie Yorke (DRC)]

Next week....Poor little guy is being "snipped" tomorrow....

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Whoopee!!!!! When do they get to pick him up????