Doodle Doings

I answer questions every day from people considering buying my puppies. Getting to know people virtually is great fun, and it is then almost like a reunion if I get to meet them in real life when they pick up their puppy. We often stay in contact for years, with pictures as the puppy grows, holiday cards and updates.

It is a particular joy to work with first-time dog owners. Of course, getting a puppy is a big event in anyone’s life, but especially so for someone who has never had a dog because they are allergic to dogs and thought it would never be possible. Or for someone who grew up with dogs but then had a child who is allergic to dogs and they have avoided getting a dog for that reason. So the fact that I can bring the joy of a non-allergenic puppy into the life of someone who thought they could never experience that is an experience I treasure.

Everyone is a novice at some time, in something. I tell people all the time that there is no shame at starting at the beginning, and I encourage people to ask any and all questions that occur to them. I believe that the more questions they ask and the more answers they get, the more prepared they will be when their new addition arrives. Of course everyone has heard stories about things puppies or dogs might do. “My Dog Marley” has been a great asset in terms of starting the conversation about what you might experience when you have a dog. One of my favorite questions is, “Will s/he chew?” I always send this picture in answer to that question:

Goldendoodle puppy: "It was Ernie's fault!"

Yes, your puppy will chew! And they will grow out of it. This little devil is Rouge, who has grown up to be a perfect companion, and spends her days schmoozing at a tennis club with her guardian.

The other picture I send to give them a dose of reality with these:

Labradoodle puppies had fun in the mud!

How many paws?

I am afraid I have occasionally scared off buyers with my graphic honesty about the realities of having a puppy in one’s life. That might not be an altogether bad thing. Although it might cost me a sale in the short run, I think it is worth it in the long run if it prevents a family from taking on a puppy when they are not ready. Timing, and preparation, means mean the difference between failure and success!

And success is sweet:

Friends forever: a Goldendoodle and his girl