Relentless

 

This is about Charlie. 

He is a mix of Pekinese and Mini Dachshund. The Dachshund in him requires that he hunt and that he hunt hard. Here he is searching out mice and voles in the snow. He captured a vole just a few days ago. He is all about getting another one, even if the last one bit him on the lip. He will track any animal and believes deer are game for the chase.

His little size means he can't chase well. He usually stands after he loses sight of the deer and just looks around. After all, he is a low rider. His chest is 3 inches from the ground.

The Pekinese in him asks that he be extremely loyal to a member of the household. And Lazy when it suits him. He tolerates me, but fawns over Rich. Here he is on his pile of blankets on the loveseat couch. He looks entirely enthused about my hat on his head doesn't he?

The moment Rich comes in to sit next to him, he sprawls against my husband. Rich's hand absently reaches down and pets him. Charlie's eyes close and nothing else in the world matters. 

In the mornings, Charlie waits for Rich to get up and then fusses over 'The Great Awakening' making sure I know WHO is important in our household.

This all from the little puppy I brought home that Rich objected to. 

"What good is he? Just a fru fru dog!" 

Charlie has been anything but the couch potato. He has become the Therapy Dog that I did not intend him to be. He has shown great wisdom in Who in the house needs his comfort.

And when it suites him, he is relentless on mice and voles.

What a happy accident this was for us. 

And Dixie passes it on...

When Morris was a puppy he was shown 'the ropes' by Queen a black and tan hound.
This photo was taken in 2004. Queen shows puppy Morris how to play. They rough and tumble and Morris learns his first lessons by following Queen. Always, always follow Val and keep an eye on her....

Morris goes on to teach hound dog puppies for years. Thelma and Louise.

Dottie

...and then Dixie in 2012

I see a pattern here...of dog butts...


Dixie had no idea that she would be part of the tradition.

Dixie's kind temperament and laid back attitude absolutely shined through today as she was patient with that tiny black and tan pup that kept leaping on her and chasing her.

But somehow I think, dogs love playtime with their own kind no matter the size.

And in the end you can become best Mud Buddies.

Two beautiful black and tan dogs.
Playing together.

I am actually thinking of introducing Charlie to a puppy class, then obedience, and then Therapy Dog Class.
His disposition is excellent for a tiny dog. I think after visiting hospital rooms this week and the nursing home, that he could do a lot of good.
Maybe he isn't a 'working' dog, but he sure is a calm little guy and he makes both my husband and I feel good just petting him.