Henrietta

Thanks Tassie. I also thought they'd be softer in temperament than a Brittany. They seem like a busy dog but yes, I had the impression they were a bit calmer generally than the breeds I mentioned.

Hi everyone,

Can anyone share their experiences of Welshies? What kind of owner would be suitable?

How would they compare in energy levels to say a Vizsla or Brittany?

What would it be like to train one, in general basic training and perhaps obedience and agility?

Is there anything I should know about temperament and health in Australian lines?

Any comments appreciated.

That's very nice. It wouldn't happen here!

What good documentaries about dogs have you watched? Any recommendations would be appreciated. Especially about behaviour and the history of dogs.

Awww - that looks one cheeky puppy ;)

That was my immediate thought. What a cutie! And well done Elsie. :)

Thank you Ladies. I think he is a bit cute LOL. He is going around licking the floors now , something that he has only started to do on the odd occasion in the past couple of months.

These oldies sure keep the worry levels high.

Licking may be a sign of digestive problems. See:

https://thesciencedog.wordpress.com/2014/03/27/mr-licks-a-lot/

DD, Gracie will lick the couch repetitively on occasion. I must see if it corresponds with any sort of stomach upset. But really, she doesn't seem to suffer from that very often. Again, all the best to you and Danny.

Well, just a quick update. I'm relieved to say that Gracie had her surgery Thursday just gone after her bloods gave her the all clear.

She is doing wonderfully. In fact, despite her being a bit wobbly on her feet that afternoon, she was 100% her dear old self. She is certainly a tough girl. I don't quite remember it being so easy! She's been on soft food, but that didn't stop her chewing something hard outside when I wasn't paying enough attention. No harm done however.

Goodness, you don't realise how much you worry until that feeling of relief when you pick them up and realise that they are ok.

Bless you my darling girl. As a treat this weekend we are going to the Tablelands and staying in a dog friendly cabin. Should be lovely.

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ETA a pic from this morning of my old boy

DD Danny is just divine...

That he is Westiemum! He looks like a very special man. All the best to you and Danny.

Never any problems after his few ops, though I was willing to say yes to all the extras for the removal of his lumps & teeth. With an old boy & a bit of a heart murmur, I didn't want to make it any tougher for him. And yes, he was also a nightmare after his desexing (complicated slightly with an undescended testicle). No way was he taking it easy as he as supposed to.

I think the Staffords are generally pretty sturdy & their pain levels very high. She should be fine.

Also, selective deafness seems to be a Stafford trait. That vague "Who? Oh do you mean me?" look ...

I am thinking it will much the same for Gracie as well. Yep extra fluids this time. Pre-op blood test was taken today, so fingers crossed she'll be in good health and get the green light.

What food did you feed your boy during recovery (for mouth)?

:laugh: Gracie so does that vague look, even well before she actually had an excuse. But pick up a lead, ball or food... someone's very attentive all of a sudden.

And that cheeky grin and tail wag that goes with it. Cracks me up every time.

I think you're doing fine too.

My Stafford girls both made it to 15 & my old boy is now 13, very deaf & going blind too. Thor has arthritis, but seems happy in himself, eating is still his favorite occupation, & he is keen on a short stroll every morning, but his world is shrinking & his routines changing a bit. Last year he gave up chasing his ball which had been a regular routine straight after I finished my breakfast coffee. Silly as it sounds, I miss it.

He also sleeps much more, day & night. Takes himself off to the bedroom about 7.30 p.m. so I follow & turn the fan on for him since it's summer now or cover him in winter, he snoozes a while, comes out for a night time wee about 10ish & then snores on the bed till I get up (even if I sleep in to near 9 a.m.). A big change from being woken by this enthusiastic licky dog bouncing in at sunrise. If he wants to sleep, I let him.

One thing I have noticed is that he likes to be accompanied more often. He will stand in the hallway waiting for me to escort him to bed, or at the laundry door to go out instead of using the dog door some times.

He had all his lumps & bumps removed a year or so ago, so his teeth were cleaned & a couple removed then. Hope it's a smooth run for Gracie & all is well.

Scottsmum's advice is very sensible. We do much the same & take the same precautions though, TG, I don't have to carry 20 kg outside.

As long as there aren't drastic changes to their home or routine, I think the oldies adapt pretty well. If they're in reasonable health, the later years can be good, though in a different way. It's just the same as with us.

Best of luck.

Your boy sounds very similar to my girl. Thank you for sharing your experiences.

Did you find that he recovered slowly after surgery or did you find that his age made no difference?

Gracie has been under anesthetic three times - desexing, cruciate ligament surgery and for the mouth lump/teeth three years ago - and she's always come out of surgery really well.. in fact I remember it being a nightmare when she was 2 and was supposed to be resting after the cruciate ligament surgery.

All the best with your boy!

I dont have any real advice.

But my old girl went deaf quite a bit before she lost her sight. We didn't realize she was deaf -or getting there til about 12. We just thought she was ignoring us. Lol

We coped remarkably well. We always made sure we stomped into rooms & moved into her line of sight before touching her. If we needed to wake her, we'd ruffle her bedding and stomp first. Only touching her if yhat didnt work.

For night blindness we set up night lights & later on carried her up & down stairs. and in & out for wees.

We also made sure we didnt move furniture around & picked up shoes & other things she'd trip on.

Bowels etc stayed in the same spot. She naturally learnt to keep us in sight when out on walks & dictated how long her walks were depending on how she was feeling.

We put her to sleep, just shy of her 15tg bday as she lost all sight & was completely depressed. But all in all her golden years were very easy & we were all very lucky. I wish you the same.

Grace has always had a touch of selected deafness throughout her life, so it took me a while to realise that she really was deaf! I can see myself carrying her down the stairs eventually, especially at night. No big deal. It sounds like your girl coped very well. What breed was she?

Thank you for your kind thoughts! :)

Sounds like you're doing a great job caring for a dog going through normal old age problems. Deafness is common in older dogs. Worst problem is loss of recall . . . but that's not so much of a problem in a slower moving, low energy dog. I doubt it bothers her much. Good luck on the lump. Probably nothing, but better safe than malignant.

I'm 66. Have to admit to taking the occasional afternoon nap these days. I'm pretty energetic compared to others of my age. Gracie's symptoms sound very familiar. She's a lucky dog if she doesn't have arthritic aches and pains to boot.

Thanks Sandgrubber. I don't believe she has many aches and pains, because I have at least seen her when her leg is playing up and she won't bear weight on it etc. The only thing is that she has always been a very tough, stoic dog so it can be hard to know. She is certainly slower going up and down the stairs. But she is undoubtedly in good spirits.

Speaking of recall, we did have that issue the other week down at the beach. I'm lucky to live somewhere quiet where you can quite often have a whole stretch of beach to yourself. Gracie normally stays fairly close anyway, but I got distracted with a friend looking at something or rather and Gracie had run quite far ahead and I physically had to run after her because she couldn't hear me.

Hi Lola,

Your boy is beautiful! What is his name?

My Abby (Chi x) is a barker. It didn't matter how much exercise or mental stimulation I gave her either, she would still find the energy to bark. I've always been concerned about the barking having a negative impact on my neighbours. Barking dogs are annoying when it is constant. Abby also had quite a loud strong bark for a little dog.

I second Westiemum in regards to forming a relationship with your neighbours. I have had Abby for seven years and I've always had open communication with my neighbours about her barking. I would always approach them, explained that I have a dog that does bark and introduced them to her (while she barked at them at first :)

I let them know that I am aware that it could become a problem and I would encourage them to let me know if they had any issues. I'd follow this up by chatting to them every now and again and asking how it was going. Luckily, I've been very blessed with understanding neighbours and it's never truly gotten out of hand, but for the most part I kept Abby indoors while I was at work. I wasn't 100% happy with that because I'd prefer them to have access to indoors and outdoors but I tried leaving them outside a few times and then I'd be walking home from work at lunch to hear her barking a bit too often for my liking. The only good thing is that I can let them out for a bit of a run at lunch time.

My girl is now at my parents (not because of barking though!)

If your neighbours aren't interested in talking now, perhaps you could leave a note explaining your plan of action (leaving your boy inside, consulting with a behaviourist) and to contact you with any concerns. That way they know you are making an effort.

I never went down the road of bark collars etc, and some others may have some good advice. I managed to just minimise the annoyance and ensure that Abby was receiving enough exercise/mental stimulation so it wouldn't get completely out of hand. She was not a dog I could do that to anyway for her own well-being. She needs to do stuff.

My Stafford Gracie is 13 now. She has always been a happy and fairly chilled dog who takes any opportunity for a run/walk/play/trip to the beach etc. So while she has always been active and a tad excitable in her younger years, for the most part she is a very relaxed dog.

She is going to have surgery soon to remove a lump in her mouth and get her teeth cleaned at the same time. Subject to results of liver and kidney function test. We need to get the lump tested to make sure it isn't malignant. She had surgery three year ago to remove a lump in the same area, but it was benign.

She is night blind now and seems to be going deaf. The blindness is easy to take care of, but for some reason the deafness worries me. How do you make things easier for a deaf dog.

The other thing I've noticed is that in the mornings, where once upon a time she'd be up and raring to go, she would rather just stay in bed. To a degree, I think fair enough, so would I. I can certainly entice her out with food or a game/walk. But she is definitely sleeping more. All normal for an older dog I suppose?

She has never said no to the opportunity of fun or exercise and her favourite thing to do is run along the beach, in and out of the water. She seems happy within her self. She had her cruciate ligament done when she was two and there is some arthritis there, but it doesn't seem to give her any trouble and I put that down to exercise and keeping her in a decent condition. The warmer climate up here helps a bit as well I think.

So all and all I think she is doing ok. But the deafness and the slowing down in the morning worries me. And just the need to make sure I am giving her the best care as she is slowing down. I've actually not had an older dog as an adult (as a child we did but it was a long time ago). What other things should I be aware of?

Oh, I should add that appetite is good. She has always drunk a hell of a lot of water compared to most dogs I've known but she has done that consistently throughout her life.

Apologies for not responding sooner, it has been a busy week. Thank you all for kind of confirming that it isn't a horrible situation, in fact it's a positive one. I'm feeling quite a lot better about it this week and I just keep up to date with mum about how they are going.

The lovely thing is that both my parents and Abby are really enjoying the new arrangement. I'm really very pleased. I am certain that this will be a permanent arrangement for the better. And I can always visit (wish they were a bit closer lol).

Thank you for your own stories about making decision for individual dogs which at the time must have been hard. You must have taken heart from hearing and seeing how well they were doing in their new homes. Westiemum, you are right - what I want and what is best are essentially the same, I just didn't quite feel that way last week. Of course, that's how it should be! I'm glad you and Andy are enjoying your relationship nowadays. I'm a pretty firm believer that sometimes, with some dogs, it just takes some time. I know I struggled a bit with Abby during her adolescent years. I loved her, but my goodness she felt like hard work sometimes! So a different situation, but along the same lines. Gracie was a dog that I immediately bonded with. Abby took a bit of time to form the bond we have now (warts and all). I will hazard a guess that it may take a bit of time with Locke, for different reasons again, but I have plenty of room in my heart and time. I know these things don't have to be rushed.

I made a mistake with Locke yesterday in that I grabbed him by the collar (not in anger, but I wanted to direct him out the door and this is what I have done with Gracie for years on occasion, only gently, and she hardly bats an eyelid).

But Locke is different and I was kicking myself for giving him a fright. I immediately took my hands off and let him remove himself from the situation, but thankfully he came back to me in about 20 seconds looking for cuddles. My mistake completely. Just some minor adjustments for me, remembering that he is not the same as my other dogs. And keep it light and fun.

It's funny when you are so used to the dogs you have... I know exactly what their limits are, what they like, what they enjoy above all else, what you can get away with leaving lying around etc, etc. I don't even have to think. Now I have to jump back a step or two and learn about Locke and discover what makes him tick. So it should be some fun times ahead.

I asked my mum if she and Abby wanted to Skype me and they are up for it! :laugh:

How do you know?

I think you've answered that yourself - despite it not being what you 'want'

Abby is thriving in her new home.

She is also less reactive apparently

Yes, it's wonderful! I put in a lot of effort in her early years (training, behaviourists etc) and never really got on top of that. Because of my nerves in these situations. She has certainly gotten better. When I moved to a completely different region I was lucky to make a number of friends who were really good with her and allowed her to grow in confidence. But I can't say that I've never had lingering issues with her and she seems so happy with mum.

Mum is quiet and calm with her, but no nonsense as well. I can see why Abby would be improving.

Another bonus here is that I don't have to stress about dogs upsetting the neighbours with barking. I've never had a complaint, but I was constantly consulting with the neighbours to ensure there weren't any problems because I know that Abby is a barker. It doesn't matter if she's flat out tired either, she's just one of those dogs that likes to use her voice. Obviously exercise does help and I live by the adage of a tired dog is a happy dog lol. But yes, she will still bark. It was a bit stressful to be honest. I'd always walk home from lunch and just listen out for her to be barking. Thankfully, it was never really a big issue, but it was certainly something that I had to keep a check on and the only reason it hasn't become a big issue is because I've put in a lot of effort, both with Abby and with keeping in touch with the neighbours.

The other two are very, very quiet. Locke has barked possibly 3 times in his life and Gracie will bark at the flying foxes early evening, every night for about 20 seconds and that's it.

Locke is a lovely boy, but he's not the type of dog I'd choose. It's not his breed (I've met a few very outgoing whippets) but his personality is a bit soft to suit me ideally. However, he is very lovely and absolutely no trouble. I think getting into some training may help us a bit with bonding as well.

I had two dogs - my 13 year old stafford and my 7 year old Chi x, who are best of mates and completely different dogs. Gracie (stafford) is sweet natured, easy-going, confident and loves going for trips in the car, walks, beach runs, going visiting etc. She is slowing down now as in sleeping more and she is night blind and I've noticed she seems to be going deaf. I have to be a little more careful now in the heat, but really she is still enjoying life and never says no to any opportunity.

Abby (Chi x) is clever, active, loud (she is one of those dogs that will still find the energy to bark, no matter how tired), reactive and quite the little bossy boots. She is one of those dogs who is just bursting with personality although she's not the easiest dog outside the house because of her reactivity. Besides that, she is a great little dog who suits me. Her and Gracie get along wonderfully and I'm dead certain that Abby's antics have kept Gracie young. She was an only dog before I got Abby and even though she was happy before she was honestly a new dog when Abby came along. They still play together, they've never stopped.

My nan died last year and I ended up taking her 4 year old whippet boy, Locke with me temporarily to give my parents a break. It wasn't supposed to be a permanent arrangement because we have pretty stringent 2 dog limits here. It took a bit of adjustment, mostly for me as I've only ever had one or two. Abby was probably a bit funny at first about having another dog, but again, she adjusted.

I went away for 6 weeks overseas in Dec/Jan and my parents looked after all three which was a godsend because they all adore my parents.

Prior to me leaving the country, mum and I had a few discussions about what to do with the dogs. Mum said and still maintains that they would be happy to take the little whippet man, BUT they'd prefer to have Abby. They have a soft spot for her and mum likes the idea of having a small, portable dog. I said perhaps we could do a trial run. When I returned from overseas I picked up two dogs and left Abby. To be honest, I am still missing her and the house is so quiet. Locke is a lovely, sweet, gentle boy who has settled wonderfully and loves nothing more than cuddles on the couch. He is a little timid away from home and very soft in his personality. I'm going to get him into some training early this year, more so to get him out there and raise his confidence levels and get his brain a bit more active as well. Gracie hasn't seemed to be too adversely affected except for the fact that her and Locke just don't play together. Abby and Locke will play and Gracie and Abby will play. I'm a little worried that Gracie will just age quicker now that her little PITA friend has gone, even though she is being active in other ways.

Abby is thriving in her new home. My mum is a carer for my other grandma and does a lot of running around and visiting and Abby goes everywhere with her unless it's not possible (shops etc). She sleeps over at my grandma's when my mum stays over. She goes in the car to pick my brother up from work. She sleeps in my parents bed (nothing's changed there). She gets games and outings. She is reportedly loving being the only dog. Which to be honest I'm not surprised at really because she has one of those me, me, me personalities. She is also less reactive apparently and mum took her and the kids to the park and she didn't bark at strangers once.

One one hand, I am very, very happy and relieved!! One the other hand I'm a bit gutted. Simply me being selfish and wanting her back. Plus, a lot of her reactivity seems to have stemmed from me and my nervous personality cos she is pretty chilled when she's with my parents.

Honestly, this sound perfect for her. She is the only dog getting the attention. She gets more outings than I can manage (I work fulltime). I thought she may have been lonely without Gracie but it seems that she perhaps is suited to being the only dog.

Also, the dogs here are doing well, aside from my concern about Gracie and doggie interactions. Locke is a sweet boy and a very easy dog. I'm thinking that this arrangement is the best for all concerned. Of course, I'm just missing my little girl. Life is easier without her but it's certainly not as much fun. She made me pull my hair out in frustration everyday, but she also made me laugh many more times a day.

The other side of course is that my parents are very happy with Abby. I'm not sure I can take her back in all fairness. They've bonded with her and every time I speak to them they are just really happy. They still say that they'd have Locke and they quite like him, BUT I know they would prefer Abby.

Also, I don't really want to uproot Locke again he's had an unsettling time and, although he'd adjust again to living with my parents, I'd rather not when things are going so well now.

So, how do you know what's right? I feel pretty much feel good about my decision except that I'm missing my girl. Have I not taken something into consideration? Have you ever been in a similar position? I'm very lucky that I have a family in a position to help out when life happens...

Corgis make the most beautiful puppies. Handsdown. He is beautiful.

What a lovely story, I wish you many happy years together!!

I did this online course with Michelle Poulloit through the Karen Pryor Academy which I really enjoyed. I also got hold of a great workshop manual Dances With Dogs Training Manual March 2014 Gay Westmore Dances With Dogs Queensland. I havn't done much over the last few months as I have been kept busy with agility, but hope to get back into it over Summer.

Hi Sheena,

Thanks for the info. Was there feedback in the online course? What skill level do you require prior to get the most out of it?

I've emailed DWDQ about manuals, is your a basic one?

Yes .. contact DWDQ. They are an awesome bunch of people, and I'm sure they'll have some great suggestions. You might try sending a PM to BC4ME .., you should find hr on the DWD thread in this forum. :)

Thanks Tassie and VM, I have contacted them now. I shall stalk the DWD thread!

Does anyone have any recommendations for any good resources for training the basics of dances with dogs?

I would love to give this a try with Abby, my little chi x. I wouldn't be against joining a club down the track (haven't researched if there are any up this way yet - I live an hour from Townsville). At this stage though, I'd be happy to have a play at home, but would like to start with foundations and just have some fun.

Any good advice about learning about this is appreciated. :-)

That is so awesome Grumpette. Plus being in a boat! How much fun.

Can you explain a bit more about what you and your dogs learn? :D

Kooikerhondje

Yes. And small munsterlanders.

I think I'd probably downsize to a smaller dog when I'm older.

Glen of Imaal terrier? :-D

My nan is 92 and has a whippet boy, I believe he is three or four now? They are perfect for each other and he gets regularly outings. Also, he will have a home with my parents if he outlives my nan. Unless I steal him first. I remember feeling a bit worried when nan was heart set on another dog after her old gsd x kelpie passed. But really, she has always had dogs and has a supportive family. I'm glad she has her little whippet man in her life.