Phoenix the Model

Recently, we entered Phoenix into a photo contest for Kong dog toys. We had several modelling shoots with Phoenix and narrowed the photos down to 5 that we liked. We then sent those photos to several select friends to help us choose. The two photos with the most votes were submitted to Kong. A couple days ago, I found out that we won the grand prize! Kong used both of the photos in their promotional marketing materials, one as the header and the other photo that won the prizes. Here's a link to photos. The grand prize was $500 and a large Kong gift basket. We've been debating how to use the $500. One camp is that Phoenix should get it in the form of days at daycare where he loves to romp and play with the other dogs. The other camp is that I could buy some furniture from Ikea. We'll see what happens in the coming days.

Turkey Trip

Phoenix spent Thanksgiving with his dog-sitter while we were at my in-laws in California, so when we got back I felt a little guilty. My own love of turkey compelled me to make a turkey (and stuffing and veggies and gravy...) When I was cleaning up, his cute little face convinced me that he needed to try a little turkey. We've been pretty strict about what he can eat (extremely limited people food), so this was definitely a special treat. I put a few scraps of turkey into his bowl. He gobbled it down. About 30 mins later, he was crashed on the couch. He was acting as if he was drugged. Totally out and snoring. Later in the night (actually early the next morning), he let out a cry in his sleep that woke us up. It sounded like something in between a howl and a bird noise. I've never heard him make that sound. I can only assume that the turkey sent him for a nasty trip in his sleep. Since then, every time he smells us re-heating the turkey leftovers he comes running at full tilt. Needless to say, we've cut him off from his addiction. No more turkey trips!

Fall Puppy

This fall we've had a grand time hiking and biking with Phoenix. One of my favorite experiences is taking him mountain biking. He runs along next to us for miles and miles, smiling and experiencing the beautiful weather. Here's a picture of him looking inquisitive (left). In case you're curious, I'm also posting a picture of my beloved Caleb (right) next to Phoenix. Phoenix still has much longer ears than Caleb ever did!

Snip-Snip

So, now that Phoenix is 6 months old, it was time to schedule that elective surgery that we like to call "snip-snip". Yes, Phoenix was neutered yesterday. He seems to be just fine. I arranged to stay home with him today (Friday) so I could keep an eye on him. Apart from needing to discourage some licking and the fact that he was super restless last night, he doesn't seem to have any symptoms. My biggest concern now is how to comply with the vet's instructions not to take him on a walk for 10-14 days! Only on-leash elimination. I asked them incredulously-- "You know I have a VIZSLA puppy, right?" It's going to get crazy around here!


P.S. I apologize for the depressingly small number of entries on Phoenix's blog. I promise more photos soon...

Phoenix and Cody: Two Vizslas

So, as you know, I've been taking data on Phoenix as he grows. I decided it would be interesting to compare him to another vizsla pup (Cody) who is a little bit older. Cody's owner graciously agreed to letting me analyze her data and compare Phoenix. Although they are not related at all (Phoenix being an east coast doggie and Cody being of the western clans)... They have remarkedly similar growth patterns. I think this is way cool!

The Phoenix Growth Curve II

We went to the vet to get some tick repellant and I had a chance to weigh Phoenix again. His newest point added to his growth curve strongly suggests that his growth curve is following a linear course, contrary to previous hypotheses. I'll keep gathering the data to further investigate this phenomenom.

The 4-month old Vizsla

Phoenix is 4 months old now. He has been making very good progress. His list of commands that he obeys is quite long, including come, sit, lay, stay, off (get off the couch), leave it, drop it, wait (off leash stop), this way (off leash change directions to follow us), heel (even off leash!), jump, find alex, find lexi, hurry up, and crate. His recall is even good in the presence of other dogs or other fun things. We're extremely proud.

Unfortunately, he still pees in the house on occasion. I think to get our attention. We've begum scolding him more harshly when we catch him. It might be working. This weekend he has had less accidents. I know he can hold it longer, since he sleeps through the night and in his crate for 4.5-5hrs. Hopefully he'll be good for our friends who are puppy sitting him next weekend while we go to a friend's wedding out of state!