Malamum

Congratulations!! He is such a cutie :D

[quote]Dollars mean more to your type of breeder than what the dog owners want. [/quote] I don't believe this at all. I like to look at people’s motives for breeding. I believe that most breeders of pure breed dogs are doing so to better the breed and are lucky if they break even (note that I said most – unfortunately there are always going to be some unscrupulous people). In regards to designer breeders or people who breed cross breeds, they are only doing so to fill a niche market. Yes, there may be demand but the supply of these dogs can only be to line the breeders pocket, as what other purpose do the dogs serve? Not saying that the dog itself isn't as worthy of love etc as a pure breed, just that it's sole reason for being born was as a commodity. And no, pure breed breeders probably don't care what the dog owners want - if what they want doesn't meet the breed standard. If pure breed dogs started deviating from the breed standard just because owners decided they wanted something a bit prettier or cuter then the breed wouldn't be able to serve it's original purpose. For example. The breed standard for the Alaskan Malamute in regards to the coat states: ‘The Malamute has a thick, coarse guard coat, never long and soft.” Say dog owners decided that they didn't like the coarse guard coat, so breeders decided to breed dogs with a softer fluffier coat, those dogs could not serve their original purpose. If out in a blizzard they would probably die because their coat would not protect them - whereas the dogs that meet the standard would survive. The fancy breeding background as you call it is what determines that each new puppy born has a very high chance of having the characteristics necessary to serve the breeds purpose. Your statement that pure breed breeders don't care about temperament is also a fallacy. It's all part of the parcel! Temperament is first and foremost and then the physical qualities come next, however one doesn’t work without the other. There is no point breeding a dog that has a lovely temperament but does not meet the standard and there is also no point in breeding a dog that has all the desired physical aspects but a terrible temperament. You need the whole kit and kaboodle. If you say otherwise, then you are only doing so to justify the purpose of your business - as that's all it is a business and your puppies are the product.

Even if we are walking in the bush, I would still pick up after Indy. As it is dogs aren't allowed in National Parks here and non-dog people are always trying to get dogs banned from other bush walking areas so I wouldn't want to give then any reason to push harder on the bans.

[quote][quote]Quote: have a little pouch that holds plastic bags attached to the leash just in case though. [/quote] now I could do with one of those would save all my pockets bulging with bags[/quote] Mouse the pouches are fantastic. It has an O ring on it so I just attach it to the leash and leave it there all the time. That way I never have to worry about remembering bags. Our council gives them away - I think it's a great idea.

The contract sounds pretty normal. I had to sign one with similar clauses - though not about being squashed :wink: mine had one about attending obedience classes for a minimum of 12 months instead.

I feed Innova kibble and vary what I add to it. Sometimes he gets some Ecopet roll, sometimes yogurt, somtimes pureed fruit, sometimes mashed pumpkin etc.. For treats I mainly use drived liver treats, or bits of his Ecopet roll.

Cool. Once you know what you are doing send me a PM and I'll give you my address and phone number.

I pick up the poop in our yard every morning - takes about a minute. I'm glad Indy doesn't like to go when we are walking - he tends to wait till he is at home. I still have a little pouch that holds plastic bags attached to the leash just in case though. One of my biggest hates is people who walk their dogs, let them poo anywhere and then don't clean it up!

Oh I am so happy for you. I could just feel your excitment from reading your post :D When do you get him, how old is he now etc.? Of course you can stop off for a cuppa and a rest at my place. I'm actually in a very good spot for a break - I'm about 5 minutes away from the F3 at Berowra so you will actually be pretty much going past my place anyway.

Good luck. I hope everything works out for you. :D

Well done... it doesn't stop there though. Next you are on the quest for two paws, then three, then four............... :D

Congratulations!!! He is such a cutie - the last photo is my favourite...awwwwww :D :D

I can imagine how worried the two of you are, I know I would be. However just remember that the surgery needed to be done and he will be better off in the long run. Give him a big cuddle from me when you get him home.

That is fantastic news!! Can't wait to see which one you get. :D

Congratulations - that is great news. It really does make you smile and feel good when they behave so well, especially if it's an improvement in their behaviour. It makes you feel like all the hard work is well and truly worth it. :D

LOL - Aroura, that scene from "There's something about Mary" was the first thing that came to my mind too when reading Cassie's post :lol: :lol: :lol: I don't really have to deal with drool with Indy but his mouth definitely waters when I am getting his dinner ready. He just sits there looking up at me with his mouth open and a little puddle forming on the floor :D

[size=7][color=blue][b]WHOO HOO!!! WAY TO GO LILY!![/b][/color][/size] :B-fly: :B-fly: :B-fly: :B-fly: :B-fly:

Unfortunatley I can't offer any advice as I don't really know too much about flyball or agility but just wanted to say good on you and let us know how the little fella goes.

Great going Goo and of course Haley. It's a fantastic photo - doesn't get much cuter than that.

Courtnek, no crocs in Sydney (except in the zoo) so you are safe there :lol: I wouldn't say I am afraid of any dogs, large or small but I am sensibly cautious around dogs I am not familiar with.

Starfox, I am so sorry to hear about poor Zebra. We are all here for you.

You've got yourself a deal Pumpkin - though you will have to help me pick some suitable clothes (as I wouldn't own anything anywhere near warm enough) and then I'll be all set to help with the chores :wink: Then you can come to Sydney and I'll take you bushwalking and to the beach. LOL- I wish I really could just jet around where ever I wanted - I can dream though :D

Johnny, Sorry if I was rude. Your first post was exactly what we were after - a definition of what rolling was. However I was a little scared that your second post was leaning towards giving pointers and I didn't really want to encourage that.

I know exaclty how you feel. I was moping around the house like a part of me was missing the day Indy went in to get neutered (and he didn't even have to stay overnight). I know it's hard not to worry but Coal will be fine :D

Like the other northern breeds mentioned Alaskan Malamutes are also not for the faint hearted and do need a strong, firm hand. However, I