6 Weeks! Wellness and shot day. Valentines are Healthy!

This is the beginning for these puppies.

VIDEO BELOW

They are close to being fully weaned.  It is time for future puppy owners to begin to prepare for their puppy.  Here is a quick checklist:

1. Bowls for water and food.  (also have some in the car for the ride home! There are travel bowls that accordion to a smaller size) I recommend a smaller set and a wider base for your home, a wide base prevents dogs from flipping the bowls.  Dogs often take some food and go elsewhere to eat it, don't be surprised if that happens, they usually only go a few feet away from the bowl. It is not something to be concerned about.  Each dog has their own preference.   I also recommend a mat to place the bowls on and select a place to feed your puppy.  It will be VITAL to schedule feeding times for house training.  Water will need to be offered more often.  

2. Crate and bed. (I recommend this for training and also as a safe haven - not a babysitter though- overnight with some potty breaks is fine). The smallest crate will not be sufficient.  This is a toy dog not a tea cup size.  Choose a crate that the pup can grow into, but that also has a divider.  Puppies will do their best not to urinate in their kennel, however, if it is too big they will use a corner of it.  Or if they have been left too long they will urinate.  Their bladders are tiny!  You will need to wait until they have enough strength to hold the urine before you can extend any time alone for the puppy. 

They need a space large enough to stand and turn around in.  We keep two beds in order to have a second while one is being washed.  You can also use old towels or blankets as the puppy will have accidents, they do not like the hard surface, give them  something to cuddle on.  I will give a better break down for house training.  This will be your preference, but I strongly recommend the scheduling and crate method.  It is the most humane, effective and speedy, if you see something that says a month or less...it is not real. Puppies do not have magic bladders that grow to full size in that time.

3. Puppy food and training treats. DO NOT FEED THEM YOUR FOOD. Maltese are a picky breed and Poodles are smart.  Once you start feeding them human food, they will stop eating their own.  They have taste, what can I say.  I will provide a small container for you with the food we are giving them.  Mix part with your food and gradually switch them over.  Otherwise, they will have gas and upset stomachs.  The most expensive brands cost more than the expensive meat from the grocery store.  Please choose a healthy brand but no need to go "all out" and spend more on the pup than you do your own family.  Read up and choose responsibly.

4. Puppy toys.    These are necessary.  Have a good selection.  Anytime the puppy chews or naws on something you don't want them to, grab a toy and say, "chew your toy".  This works!  They will know their toys and begin to make the connection what they can play with and what to leave alone. Everyone must be on the same page.  Remove anything that is not your pups toy.  They will understand and if you are consistent you will be amazed at how well this simple thing works.  Keep in mind, the puppies teeth are extremely sharp!  They will easily scratch you or your clothes.  They will teeth for a long time.  Their mouth is their hand, they don't recognize it may hurt. Use the toys to keep your hands safe and teach the pup manners.  They will lose their baby teeth as they get older.  Do not get too aggressive in a game of tug a war.  You can pull their teeth too soon.

5. Safe Space.  The puppy will need a space in the home that they cannot choke on anything or get into any trouble while able to exercise and play.  We have a kennel with a gate around it.  We have another gate where they can go for play and have another area for variety, or they have constant supervision if left for free play.  You may have a large mudroom, or another type of area.

6 Check your fence.  If you have a fenced yard remember these puppies are itty bitty.  You may think they can't get out.  Let me assure you, these pups are smart, athletic and can escape.  Check for any gaps.  If your fence is climbable,  you may need a plan B.  These puppies are not yet the best climbers, but they can climb to a small degree.  They are curious, so be aware. They should not be left alone outside until they are older.  Plan on going with out with them while they potty train or for outdoor play.

7. Enzyme cleaner.  Poop scooper. Use an enzyme cleaner for indoor messes and the poop scooper for outside.  

8. Baby Shampoo or dog shampoo and brush.  Pups get messy, particularly their bum.  They may need their bum washed often until they have all their shots and can be groomed properly.  You can also wash their eyes gently as they are prone to tears.

8. Vet.  For their shots or any emergencies.  

9. Puppy safe house.  Pick up any small items, kids toys, shoes and cords. Keep chocolate (especially baker's chocolate away from the puppy).  The chocolate will increase their heart rate, they will act really happy until their heart gives out to a heart attack.  All medicine!  Tylenol is especially awful.  These type of things cause horrendous symptoms that will be fatal to your puppy and heart wrenching to experience.  If they do eat, call your vet immediately, they may be able to help, but time would be most important.

10. Optional, doggie door. This will change your life as a pet owner.  This will not be applicable until your puppy is older and capable of pushing the door open.  However, once they are strong enough, it is wonderful.  We would recommend the brand we use.  It is insulated. Living in Wyoming it does not let in any cold air or wind.  It is more expensive, but it is also more durable and better looking than others. 

The puppies are sensitive in this video because of their shots, I ended it early because of that.  They are healthy and wonderful!  I did not film long or get each pup extremely well.  I hope to add another video later this week and let each puppy get their spotlight in.  Near the end of this week, I will be contacting you to make arrangements and answer any questions you may have.  Enjoy the video: I am a better breeder than I am video taker!

VALENTINES 1 MONTH BIRTHDAY!

🎈VALENTINES 1 MONTH BIRTHDAY!🎈

It is the time to start making selections as to which puppy is wanted this week.I have included a new spotlight and the pups first time in the sunshine!

1. First Pick is Romeo

2.  Second Pick is Sweet Pea (Daffy)

3. Third Pick is Aphrodite 

4. Fourth Pick is Butter Cup

5. Fifth Pick is Diamond In The Ruff (Wyo)
CONGRATULATIONS, TO FUTURE PUPPY OWNERS AND PUPS!

If you have any questions about the pups before making your selection, please call or text.  I am happy to help.

At 6 weeks, each puppy will have their wellness visit, de worming and first shots.  I will inform you the day of, as to how things went for your puppy.

When Puppies are ready:  This year they will turn 8 weeks April 10th.  However, the weekend before the 10th is near enough to 8 weeks for us to make arrangements.

Care package: You will receive a small basket for puppy toys, the basket is large enough to fit the tiny puppies as well.  We will give you 1 toy, 1 blanket, a container of the puppy food they are used to and you can mix it in with the puppy food of your choice.  By mixing them it will help with their digestive system.  A change in food can cause gas and diarrhea if not done slowly. 

 If you are driving, the basket is large enough to hold the puppy, but not high enough to keep them inside.  You will need to have the puppy in a passengers lap or bring a large cardboard box for transport.  I recommend someone to hold the puppy within the basket.  The transition will be very new and having a comforter will help. The basket or cardboard box will prevent any mess from getting on you or the car. 

We will cover training later.  I will give suggestions, but it will be up to you and your preference.

VIDEOS: 

1.VALENTINES IN THE SUNSHINE FOR THE FIRST TIME!

5. FOLLOWED BY EACH PUP'S PERSONAL SPOTLIGHT.

Pet short stories and 2 videos: Sweet moments as a breeder.

Breeding brings me so much joy!

I included 2 videos of my day.  One of the great benefits of breeding is - I get to play with puppies!

A photo of Yankee Doodle (Molly) with her new puppy mom!

Fears of breeding and the benefits of breeding.

 My choice to become a breeder was not an easy one.  I was intimidated by raising little paws and of selling them!  I was concerned that I would be too attached to the pups to let them go.  I wondered if I would be able to find loving people who would be prepared for the responsibilities of becoming a pet owner.
It was not a lack of experience with animals that worried me. 
 Read the stories below and you might agree.

Intermission of short stories:

Short Story: Dirk.

INFAMOUS DIRK

I still wonder: terrorist or parrot?
My parents inherited Dirk. Our excitement lasted until we met him.  His goal in life was to terrorize or destroy any life except his own.  Any breathing creature was at risk if not Dirk.

His was brilliant and agile.  He found inventive ways of escape.  His plan of attack started with a swift flyby that made certain his wings hit your face.  That flyby he took in every detail and formed a malicious plan in seconds.  His execution of the plan occurred on the second flyby.  It consisted of a variety of assaults.  He would rip out earrings, poop on the head, bite.
Alfred Hitchcock: "The Birds!"
I think Hitchcock must have met Dirk.
My parents made a GREAT decision and found a bird lover who believed they were up to the challenge.  They gave him Dirk.  Poor soul, I wonder if he lived through it?

When Dirk left, the prison he created became peaceful once more and Warden Dirk has hopefully improved.
After the chaos and trauma, my father built a house in our backyard for pidgeons. I catch myself wondering if he wanted to show his 5 children that not all birds are planning your demise.  Regardless, that bird house did make me a bird lover.  I am not partial to parrots.

Meet my family when we were young!

The little girl on the left is me, Holly, the boy beside me is my brother G, my sister L is in the patriotic swimsuit, our mother is the pretty lady holding a baby brother C.  My father is the photographer.  My eldest brother S was more than likely playing baseball at this time.  I am only going with first initials for privacy sake.

My early years were spent growing up in the Black Hills.  In every place I have lived, I have been surrounded by ranchers and farmers.  My sister and older brother were the pet wonders!  They brought home frogs, lizards, bugs and snakes(my mother was not a fan).


 Short Story:  I need a pet too! A 5 year old fills her own dreams.

As a young child I wanted to have a pet of my own.  What can a little girl do when her family are already overrun with animals?
 I grabbed an ice cream bucket and created my own worm farm! I beamed with pride.  MY little pets.
I would talk to them every day, believing I was a wonderful owner.

One day, I went to my bucket and everything was gone! I ran to my mother who was making  Saturday night dinner.  My father and brothers were in the kitchen.

I sobbed and exclaimed, "Mom, something terrible has happened to my pets! They are all gone!"  My mother was aware of my joyful ownership of worms that I had been digging out of the ground.
She put her hands on the counter and gave a "look" to dad and the boys.

A strange silence filled the room, when my brother G said, "Worms, the worms in the ice cream bucket were your pets?"
Doom!!!  At that moment, I realized they all had fishing gear on.

Worm farming...I don't recommend it.  In truth, I would use them to fish too; if I wasn't so proud to have my own pets.

Short Story: Macho Duck
The beauty of feathers are only feather deep.

Macho Duck is what we named him.  He was attacked by our neighbor's dog. Macho made it to our backyard but it was clear he wasn't going to live without help.

In Macho's defense, he was wild, he was hurt in a violent attack.  He had zero coping skills for that. Wild ducks do not appreciate their life being saved.  He was angry and never did get over it.
Helping that animal meant definite pain of some kind.  He has returned to the wild.
 He never wrote or said thank you, typical wild critter.
 I hope he lived a long time for all the trouble we went through to save him.
Nevertheless, we loved him and were happy he made it.

Short Story: L wants a pony!

 My sister, L, wanted a horse,  she begged our father relentlessly.
It was a beautiful day,  being a sporty family, L had a track meet.. 
Our father knew L had a little more to give on the high jump.  He came up with a brilliant plan to give her that extra push.  

  He said, "L, If you can high jump to a height, (that I can't recall), you can get a horse but you have to help pay for it."

My sister said, "I can do that!"

Our father knew she couldn't jump that high; he also knew she would push herself  and gain confidence at what she could achieve. That was his goal.

My amazing sister cleared that bar like a sail! She popped off the mat without a thought of how high she had jumped, all she could think about was, "I am getting a horse!"
She ran to our dad and beaming said, "I knew I could do it! Let's get a horse!"

I imagine at that moment, our father experienced a bizarre mix of utter horror and magnificent pride.  He may have gone into shock as well.

 I have always wondered how he broke that news to my mother?  She loved horses.  However, 5 children are really expensive.  L, and our eldest brother S, worked to earn the money.  Our parents did too and after a long wait and hard work it came time to buy a horse.

Our father went with L and S to look at some horses for sale.  One gentleman had  a horse for sale.
 L and S were very excited but unclear how much the horse would cost.
Once they arrived at the ranchers land, he took them to see the horse for sale.

One look and our father knew, L and S were about to be heartbroken.
Hank was a beautiful horse quarter horse, 16 hands tall, great coloring and superbly trained.  He could run cows like no other.
Our father prepared himself for the inevitable moment of disappointment.
It wasn't a secret that in those days we didn't have a lot of money.  Our parents were known to be honest, hard workers.  That work ethic was taught to all of us children. L and S were not strangers in our small town of 300 people. No one was a stranger in that town. L and S were  liked for how dependable they were.

They were both taken by Hank, and Hank returned the affection right off the bat.
L and S while stroking Hank, turned to ask excitedly, " How much?"
That rancher gave nothing away, he simply said, " How much do ya got?"
They pulled out what to us was A LOT of money.  Our father and the rancher knew better. 
The gentleman, rancher said,"Well, look at that, you have the exact amount.  He is yours."

Our father has often spoken of that kindness. The selflessness of that rancher added joy to to all our family.
Hank won at the rodeos with L on his back.  L was a good rider.  But we all know, Hank was  unbeatable in his own right.

  I was lucky enough to partake of L and S's accomplishments and loved Hank.

Short Story: Howling at the moon

We fostered a coyote, my sister, L, brought home.  It was a baby that had been caught in a trap.  We, (really, my sister) cared for our coyote until it was old enough to go to a refuge.  Coyotes when cared for are elegant.  Unlike the wild ones that are none too friendly and scraggly.

We had two other dogs and a cat at that same time.  They all believed they were of the same pack; the pack included our cat!  We worried coyote would not make it in the refuge.  We had made an effort, not to tame her.  She liked us regardless.  The day came to release her in a refuge in Colorado.  She was tagged and for a time we received updates.  Coyote adjusted well and found a new pack. 
My sister, L, has always been an inspiration with acts of love!  I continue to look up to all my siblings including my youngest!

Short Story: Animals in my adult life, with a family of my own.

As time marched on, college was my life, I had several years without a pet.  I would help clean out stalls or watch some friends horses while they were gone.  But I didn't have a pet of any kind.

I met Zach, and things changed quickly.

Engagement pictures back in the day.  Would have liked the awesome touch ups they have now!  Zach, is handsome and genuinely GOOD!!  I am a blessed lady.

My husband and I give all our time to our family.  Our kids would probably appreciate less mom and dad time!  We include them in our activities and we attend and support all of theirs.  

Since the beginning of our marriage, we have had dogs.  Our children have been just as involved with animals as my husband and I.  Over the years, we have had several pets.  Fish, bunnies, rescued birds, working dogs (hunting), hamsters, frogs, snakes, yes, EVEN AN ALLIGATOR!

If those seem odd, the revelation that my husband taught 6th grade science may help to explain our variety of animals.

If we had the land, I would have goats, chickens and horses.  Alas, teacher salaries have their limits! 

When it came time for us to get another pawed friend, it was hard.  I loved our working dogs.  Unfortunately, working dogs can only be walked by strong adults.  Our dogs played well with our kids but they often would knock over our kids by accident.  If there was a day we couldn't walk our working dogs, it was hard on our furry friends  and hard on us.  The shedding was a constant struggle.

My husband and I decided to look outside the box.  We have several family members with dander allergies.  We had already decided we needed a hypoallergenic dog.  

After researching, we found the Maltipoo breed.  I am very grateful for the hours of research we went through and very grateful for this designer breed.

Though these pups are small, their hearts and athletic nature are huge! My husband takes them in the car to run random errands.  We take them with us in the mountains.  When we have a sick child or a sad child our maltipoos rally around to help soothe them.

They make us laugh and bring each one of us joy.  

As children, Zach, my husband, and I, had a batch of puppies.  It was a wonderful memory and growing experience for us both.  We wanted our children to have a similar experience.

It was then that breeding became a real thought. If I was going to do it, I had to be reputable.  This blog is part of that.  I want to be accountable and be transparent as to how we breed and how we treat our animals.

I love animals.  I enjoy the work and the payout.  Even if it is Macho Duck, who never looked back and was unhappy the entire time while getting care. My family saved him! They were selfless and I realized, serving a living thing feels wonderful!

All these experiences have stretched my learning and appreciation of animals of all kinds.  I don't think anyone could tempt me to own a parrot though.

I love how my days go.  I am still spotlighting the Valentine Puppies for our future families and for their picks.  But shortly, I will  focus on the fun  of puppies. I love my job!!!!!

Zach never had the worries that I did.  But I am the worry wort and he is the rock!  My husband is my greatest supporter, in all honesty, he is as involved as I am in caring for our animals.

We are going beyond just a pet.  We want to have companion dogs that are a friend to the family that chooses them.

We want to educate people or at least point to positive ways for training  dogs and giving them proper care.  In turn, our children have learned responsibility and how to care for innocent creatures.

It is hard to say goodbye to each of our pups.  They have all been unique and though different each are loving!  I have been blessed with wonderful families that have fallen in love with our pups.

I am grateful to be a breeder.  I am grateful for the kindness it has taught my children.  I am grateful to be able to provide a furry companion to others.

I love the sweet moments I get to have because I breed.  We have several adorable moments and lots of experiences to give our family the giggles.

Breeding has added so much to our family and I hope that because we embarked on this adventure it will bless you as well!

I work from home, but my office is separate from my puppies.  I enlist a baby monitor to hear them.  I know when they are playing and then when they are starting to fall asleep.  I keep a small area around the kennel to allow them playtime on their own, we also take them out to play with more space. When they begin to sleep, I make sure they get back into the kennel for training purposes.  In this video, they escaped my attention!

Bright Eyes!

Bright Eyes, now we can play!

Playtime with Valentines!

We do socialize them.  After a thorough washing, our family works with the puppies to get each one accumstomed to sounds, play and attention from multiple ages.

I have laid down a blanket as they are not quite cooridinated enough to navigate the smooth floor.

All the puppies love attention.  You can see that Sweet Pea and Buttercup gravitate more to the children.  While the other three don't care as long as they are given plenty of attention.