The Dalmatian Diaries Blog

Widget, my spring-loaded pup, learned a new trick yesterday. I mean, she already loves to jump, so why not into my arms? All I did was say, "Widget, jump up!" and into my arms she went. That was the first time. She also did it the second, third and fourth times.

Now what was hilarious was when Brent tried it today. He wanted Widget to jump into HIS arms. So he said the command and patted his chest... and into MY arms she went!! She knew what was supposed to be done, she just didn't realize it had moved venues. I swear, she's too smart.

Yep, I got the kids a new toy for every day of Christmas. Well, ok, not really, but I did get them 12 new toys to entertain them thru the holiday break. With no daycare and inlaws visiting, I figured a toy a day would be fun for them.

Browser is 31 1/2 pounds and Widget is a cool 40 lbs. Pictures coming later today (hopefully). My eye-fi software stopped auto-uploading my photos, so I have to do it the old fashioned way until I figure out what the problem is (hence the delay in new photos)

That's their new Cuz toy in the picture. And yes, that's Browser tackling Widget! He's growing! He hasn't has a major growth spurt like Widget did at this age, but he's growing. He is a very dense (physically - not mentally!) dog. Picking him up takes some serious effort! And he's decided he is a lap dog - just getting him ON my lap is an accomplishment.

The kids are going to have lots of playtime the next week or so. Tomorrow will be their last day at daycare until January 5. Should be interesting In-laws will be here on the 28th and will meet them for the first time.

It's been cold enough out that Widget and Browser haven't really wanted to stay outside long. They race and chase each other, then are ready to come in. It's going to warm up again for Christmas (70's) but it's been darn cold the last few days (high not even hitting 40F).

I got both pups enrolled in school in the new year. Browser will be in obedience and Widget (who already graduated obedience) will start agility.

This can't be Widget. She's too well behaved; too loving. She looks like Widget, but how it was I dropped the wild child off at 8:15 for daycare and picked up this lovey-dovey dog at 5pm is beyond me.

Even Brent is suspicious. She gave him endless kisses tonight. Something she hasn't done in a long time.

She did have a good day at daycare today. She's really gaining confidence. I'm so proud of her. The other morning she immediately wanted to play with another dog. Tonight when I picked her up she wanted to play with Trevor (a trainer). She's also been so wonderful with Browser - she actually shared toys with him tonight!! She'd bring him a toy, take it away, bring it back, etc.

And if you are looking for a good toy for a chewer, try a Cuz. I had been meaning to get one (or more) for a long time since Toni recommended them but saw them at Petsmart today so got one. Widget LOVES it!! She had a small one before, but it squeaked. This one makes (for lack of a better term) a "farty" sound. She goes NUTS over it!!!

I'll try to get some new photos this weekend. Browser is growing fast, and Widget looks so grown up! It's been chaos here lately. Work has been just awful so I've been slacking in my dog duties.

Both dogs are at doggy daycare today.

I do miss them, but I am determined to make the most of their absence and get some real work done!

I swear, I should just get a second camera. Mine is never where I need it when I want it. I've missed so many great photo opps with the pups!

Yesterday, Browser finally mastered the Buster Cube. He's not as coordinated as Widget is, of course, but he finally seemed to understand the concept and got his first bits of kibble out of it. He was pretty cute with his big floppy paws trying to manipulate it.

Widget was a very good girl this weekend. Didn't bark once!! Laura and Adrian were here yesterday and Widget didn't bark upon their arrival, or when she greeted them!!! Such progress!!! She did jump up a little, but I'll take that over the barking.

We're also using something called Peaceful Paws on her. It's a bit like Rescue Remedy, but only it actually works . I got it from her school, it's a blend of essential oils developed by a pet massage therapist here in town. You rub it on their chest/neck where they can breathe the soothing aroma in. Works wonders!!!! We had a really, really windy day on Saturday - which normally freaks Widget out. Not this time. This stuff just helps settle any anxiety the pup has. I love it! That and doggy daycare are going to get Widget and me thru puppyhood