Katie P

I don't think its too necessary to see the groomers that early. I regularly trim the feet/butt/muzzle and usually do a big brush everyday. In saying that, my Maltese x (Poodle) coat must just be lucky as I can leave it unbrushed for a while and have no matts or anything. It is not a curly coat though, quite straight and soft. I do agree about getting them used to the groomers though. The only thing that prompted us in getting my boy's coat done was so he could have an early groomers experience and it was also coming into those stinking days of summer ;) It also depends on the temperment of the dog. My boy is not fazed by anything so I don't think it would have mattered with him (we got him done at about 4.5 months). Also I always groom him on a bench and he doesn't care where he is touched, poked, prodded or placed into awkward positions! Edit: Grammar

Great name!!! How exciting Smartypaws!

What a gorgeous girl Ambrosia!!! Don't worry about the name, if you agree on one (we know how hard that is!!) go for it!!!

Japanese Spitz!

Mmm thats crusty hey back to square one finding another breeder than the waiting to find out if you have a puppy. Im sure the extra wait will be worth it though Yeah pretty sure of my new breeder though but Pup wont be born til Oct! Everything happens for a reason....maybe this is my opportunity to seize

Exciting!! Damn about the long wait though......piccers when you can!! Is it going to be costy to import?

Nice pics and congrats to all! Yeah have to change breeders.....I know it will be at least a 6 month wait now.......

No pup for me....things have gone a skew.

Excellent. Hopefully I can donate when I get my next paycheck.

How is everything going Julie?

Don't worry Bianca, it has been exactly the same for me. Have heard very little about the litter and everything about it!!! Basically I know parents, lines, number of puppies, gender and age!!! Have sent an email so hoping for a good response and update. Last picture I have seen is them at 2.5 weeks (nearly 5 weeks now). But I know my breeder is super dooper busy at the moment with puppies, showing, family and life in general!.

Japanese Spitz- Show pup Woohoo! Please pictures please!

Not too much longer until I know breeder is sending me an update either today or the weekend about how she thinks they are going. About 2 1/2 weeks ish until we can know for sure. If yes, then 4-6 weeks until pick up! Welcome to everyone and cute pictures

I am so glad to hear that the herbs are helping your boy. This proves that admid the materialism, selfishness and plain stupidity, that there are incredibly good and generous people in this world. All hats of to that DOL member.

Took maybe 2 weeks to bond? I wouldn't say my boy is my heart dog, but he brings a lot of much needed joy and fun into my life

Greats name Anna, I think it suits!

Thanks everyone! Finding this really helpful. If you have something else to add, feel free

Japanese Spitz don't have many health problems and breeders are usually very thingy about ensuring that problems such as patella luxation are not passed on. Most of the JS in Australia are related in some way, especially the ones in NSW. Maybe discuss it with the breeder. I am sure they will have no problems telling you the reasons for their choice

Yes, I confess to being scared of screwing up royally!

Thanks everyone your comments have been very helpful. Obviously it is going to take tons of practice but with your advice, I can sort out the 'do's' and 'don'ts' and hopefully apply it. I have two mentors within my breed who I have been to a few shows with and will be going to another 3 in the next two weeks. They have had the breed for a looong time and I pick so much up. I have been videoing the breed in the ring and studying the video's. I am also going to start handling classes soon as well. If anyone has something to add- please do!

So what mistakes are made to constitute 'poor'?

As someone who is about to start showing soon, I have heard that handling is not as easy as it looks. I have been to quite a few shows and it doesn't look too hard (assuming your dog is behaving! :p). So, I ask you. What makes a good handler? Rather than a 'bad' or 'average' one? How can people avoid holding back their dog due to their handling skills? Will be interested to hear peoples thoughts. I would hate to think my handling skills would hold back my dog from winning.

Seriously! What is wrong with people.

Japanese Spitz.....Finnish Lapphund......researching and am potentially interested in adding Tollers/Samoyed to the list!

Chase...... :rolleyes: you guessed it! His favourite game is 'chase'! However I originally named him after the cute doctor 'DR ROBERT CHASE' on House!