And Then Came Tussock

Actually, Laren came first, but sadly she only lived until she was six years old.  She was the most beautiful, affectionate border collie I have ever known - yes, I am biased as she was my dog, but she was so special that I don't feel able to have another collie.  She was also the love of Sisko's life.  He was just over a year old when Laren arrived as a six week old puppy, and he loved her instantly.  They truly were friends and sadly Sisko hasn't felt that way about any other of his companions.  He was quite distraught when we lost her - as were we.

The day she arrived

About 18 months old

With her favourite Giggleberry

However, just a few months before we lost Laren, we met a hovawart.  A hova what???  A big hairy German dog and rare in this country.  For more information look at www.hovawart.org.uk .  After this meeting we read up on the breed and decided it was to be our next dog.  Chris did some internet work and found a breeder near Perth - it just so happened that she was also the lady who first brought the breed into the UK.  I emailed her and lo and behold, she had a litter on the way.  We met her pack of dogs before the puppies were ever born, and we obviously passed the test as we ended up on the list of potential owners.  They are not dogs for the faint hearted it seemed!

Towards the end of May 2006, Minches Chief Rommi aka Tussock landed into our lives.  And we thought Sisko had attitude....  At the tender age of 7 weeks, she already had some definite ideas about the world, what she wanted to do and who she wanted to be with.  Sisko and Laren were not too sure about her, but Laren soon took on the roll of kind auntie who would play gently with her.  Sisko remained the grumpy grandad for quite some time.  Anyone who showed any weakness would be walked over by this arrogant hooligan - but she wasn't all bad.  She was also very affectionate and playful, although play was pretty rough I have to say.  She managed to split my lower lip, pierce my nose, leap into a guest's lap spilling his whisky, knocked a lady flat on her back, and generally caused chaos.

Mmmm, shall I have a paddle?

Me?  Trouble?  Surely not.

When she was sleeping, you knew she was behaving

Tormenting Sisko

Today, she is generally calm, loving, affectionate, obedient (her interpretation) and very loyal, with flashes of excitability, willfulness and downright naughtiness.  The more she loves you, the bigger the greeting, so if she climbs up you to say hello, you know you are special to her.  She's certainly typical of the breed with regard to people - friendly but reserved with strangers and happy with those she knows.  With other dogs she can be a bit unpredictable as she susses them out.  If they are at all threatening, she will flatten them, if friendly, she will wag her tail, but she is in charge and don't forget it.  When she plays, she plays rough.  Rabbits beware, ducks look out, and cats, please stay indoors.

A proud dog

Does she sound a handful?  She could be trouble if with someone who lacked confidence in their dog handling skills - let's put it that way.  To me, she is just my cuddly wus.

Lady Muck in Life of Leisure