The Doodle

"Hoss" at 10 weeks old

I'm a big fan of dogs (read more here), but have limited our house dogs to one in recent years, just feeling like we needed to keep things simple with so many livestock to care for.  Munchie, our rescue shitzu, is sweet and a wonderful foot warmer, but not a great one for the outdoors.  Our daughter and I have long admired "doodle-dogs" (poodle crosses, most popular being Labradoodles and Goldendoodles), but could never get my husband to consider it until he saw one retrieving very successfully while he was hunting with friends.  We didn't hesitate to start our search for a pup, also liking the fact that Labradoodles combine two very intelligent breeds and that those bred selectively through multiple generations often don't shed.  And.... they're REALLY CUTE!

At three weeks old

We located a breeder nearby that appeared to be reputable and had a beautiful litter from which we'd get first choice.  I liked the personalities and sociability of both parents, so we picked out "Hoss" (named by our son) for his robustness and beautiful markings, and then began what seemed like a long wait until he was 8 weeks old to bring him home.

Lots of new experiences that first day, so tiring!

Now 10 weeks (top of page), he's growing fast and settling in really well.  I'd never crate-trained a dog before, but it's been a very smooth process and seems to be contributing to a well-adjusted pup.  So far, I think the key is giving him lots of exercise and it's been fun getting out into the woods with both dogs on these great fall days.

Meeting one of the barn cats

The other critters are getting used to him, though Munchie isn't thrilled about the whole thing.  One of the barn cats actually ran right up to meet him!

Look for lots more pictures of Hoss, he brings us a lot of joy and laughs and seems to be a great addition to our family!

Pin It Now!