Mango and Storm’s Litter – Week Three

Let the games begin!

“Do you want a piece of me?”

There was electricity in the air as this was touted to be the match of the century. They had been honing their skills for the past several days and they were ready. Two on two – mano a mano. This was ultimate tag team wrestling, puppy style. Without warning, Mr. Twister lunged forward with his massive 6 lb. frame to take on Mr. Sandstorm. Meanwhile Mr. Lightning Bolt chomped down on Mr. Snowstorm’s leg. Before long pandemonium ensued and the whole concept of tag teaming was lost as the four were engaged in a four way brawl. Off in the far corner of the “ring”, Mr. Purple Rain was lying atop a stuffed animal sound asleep, snoring gently.

This is the beginning of a key period for the puppies as they are developing rudimentary social skills. They are testing each other’s limits and learning the difference between hard and soft biting. They take turns sleeping at the top and bottom of the sibling pile. Since their hunting and chasing instincts are emerging, they practice with their siblings or their plush toys. The puppies are also fine-tuning their vocal abilities. They have such a broad range of vocal stylings that at times we could swear that there was a flock of pigeons in the room and on other occasions, they were heard howling like a pack of miniature wolves.

Now that their vision is established beyond simply being able to detect light, dark and movement, the puppies are becoming increasingly curious about their surroundings and each other. The week was rounded out by frequent deliveries from mom’s milk truck and napping. They even struggled to stay awake long enough to entertain some visitors. They were on their best behaviour as they were being kissed and caressed, all the while eyeing their suitors warily. Most cooed with delight as they were picked up to cuddle. And picking them up is becoming a workout in itself as this gang is growing in leaps and bounds. That also means they need their nails clipped every few days, but fortunately Mango is looking after the rest of their grooming needs for now.

That’s it for now, but be sure to join us next week for another nail-biting installment of “Puppy Tales”.