Regalgoldens Golden Retrievers

“The Uninvited Houseguest”   Apart from the odd bad-weather day, we’ve had lots of outdoor time with these pups. And when we’re not quick enough to extend our invitation to go outside, we certainly hear about it. Each and every puppy loves their cuddle time but relishes their playtime as well. The piece of culvert we salvaged and have placed on a bit of a decline in the backyard has made a fabulous tunnel and slide. They go up and they go down and race around the other end to do it all over again. Couple that with the usual rock climbing and stick munching and much fun was had by all. Except for that one day when the playing was halted abruptly. The alarm was sounded that there was an “enormous” (garter) snake sunning itself on the grass apparently oblivious to the activity all around. We escorted everyone to the side and coaxed the snake, whom we apparently share the yard with, to its den to an opening underneath the concrete patio. Play resumed as usual.   It’s interesting t...

We have the time of our life outside! “Sound the Alarm!” Mornings around here are pretty routine, but they are extremely busy looking after the pack, the moms and litters of puppies. This one was a bit over the top. We heard all sorts of commotion as we approached the living room where the puppies and their moms reside only to find the living room and kitchen filled with puppies. It seems that Paige had stepped down on the row of slats that block the entrance to her whelping box allowing everyone inside to escape. Not only were her pups bunking there but also Chanel’s brood. Everyone seemed delighted at their newfound freedom and quite content just wandering around. Fortunately, all were very well behaved. Of course, the same was not the case inside the whelping box. Since the pups are well on their way to being fully weaned, they always have a fresh bowl of water at their disposal. To this end, we use a spill-proof bowl. Every now and again, a litter of puppies decides to test that th...

Just chilling “Belly Rubs” How time flies. A mere seven weeks ago, Chanel’s pups were all chipmunk-size nuggets – all squirmy with little pink feet and noses. They evolved from helpless little bundles to real going concerns that are desperate for backyard time and curious to know what each and every little sight and sound represents. It’s interesting to witness the pups’ growing independence as they venture into the far corners of the yard either on their own or in small groups. When they’re not in full play mode, they love to cuddle and they all tend to roll over and expose their undersides for belly rubs. They’ve also been very instrumental in teaching Paige’s pups the ropes who are a week-and-a-half their juniors. This week included a car ride and visit to our friendly veterinarian. The gang was extremely quiet on the way there and very well behaved in the clinic where they received their checkups and first set of vaccinations. Their examinations were all stellar and so was their be...

What adventures we've had outside! “Friends” No…not like the TV show. This week we enjoyed watching “Friends – Golden Style”. The weather was perfect for outdoor activities so all week long, Paige’s pups played alongside Chanel’s pups in the yard. The week-and-a-half age difference and size did not matter. If anything, the younger ones took their cue from Chanel’s pups which helped to bolster their confidence. They all took turns settling into our laps for a quick cuddle or bounding around the yard with their pals to explore its wonders of which there are many. Rock climbing is always popular as is staring at the hose reel in bewilderment. The little ones often dart across the lawn at top speed spontaneously but lacking the necessary balance and coordination to go the distance, the sprint also culminates in a tumble and a quick wrestling match if another puppy is nearby. In their more relaxed moments, the abundance of fresh twigs that required reworking was also a crowd pleaser. Th...

  We loving being outside with our momma! “Potty Training”   From day one, these little guys were quite confident and completely comfortable with their outdoor surroundings. They immediately go off to explore the grass, the rockery or munch on fallen twigs. Others used the vastness of the yard to engage in sporting activities with their siblings.  A popular activity is the game of tag in which each puppy exhibits a burst of energy in succession.  Another popular sport involves racing around hither and thither with no apparent motive or destination in mind. The little ones spontaneously dart across the lawn at top speed but lacking the necessary balance and coordination to go the distance, the sprint also culminates in a tumble. It’s a good thing puppies at this age are seemingly made of rubber.  The rock-climbing initiative proves to be very popular.  In their more relaxed moments, the  abundance of fresh twigs that required reworking was also a big hi...

We want to bust out of here!   “The Nail Salon is Open!” To help the puppies continue to bulk up, they had their first raw feeding of hormone and antibiotic-free meat with organic vegetables, pro-biotics, vitamin supplements including vitamin C, bovine colostrum and Puppy Gold for eye and immune system development, goat’s milk and plain yoghurt. Paige keeps the milk bar open 24/7 for top-ups but w e’re certain she relishes the break she gets from each puppy’s twenty-eight razor sharp teeth!    In  order to accommodate the puppies’ rapid growth and increased mobility, we’ve removed the pig rails from the whelping box which gives the gang some more room to play in. They’re  spending a great deal of time playing and interacting with their siblings, so we’ll be expanding their living quarters very soon by adding an extension. In  the meantime,  they have gym memberships thanks to an elaborate play station and numerous plush toys at their disposal. Whi...

Enjoying a beautiful summers day....and a snack! “The Rebel Yell”   The dynamic in the whelping box is evolving.  This is the beginning of the most influential socialization period for the puppies. They’re learning to communicate with each other and with us by wagging their tails. With the increased control over their facial muscles, they are making expressions and are beginning to reveal their personalities and communicate their opinions. They spend longer periods of time awake and they use it to engage in some manner of play with their siblings whether head butting or wrestling, awake or asleep. They’re also craving a lot of attention and affection and fortunately that’s something that’s not hard to provide. Frequently there’s a “rebel yell” emanating from the whelping box which is our cue to reach in and pick someone up for a cuddle.   The gang is growing steadily and is now getting three meals a day, which are supplemented by Chanel’s still frequent offerings of desse...