Bonzai - It's a New Puppy! - Comments Page 2

Bless you and your wife for adopting instead of buying a purebred! I used to be a breeder, maintained a registered kennel for a number of years. -- No more. I only take in rescues now, as they are the ones who will not find homes unless we help, and these so-called "mixed-breed mutts" are absolutely WONDERFUL! -- No matter how big (or small) they may turn out to be. I have one who must be the "funniest-looking dog on the planet," but -- what a personality, and what a HEART! I do agree with the previous writer, though, that now is the time to begin training. A large dog can be much more difficult to manage if you wait until past adolescence.

Golden Retriever for sure, and perhaps some Shephard. They're all big guys, but wonderful pooches. Goldies are great with kids, probably the best breed for the little guys. And just look at that face.....

What a GREAT pup! I know you, and your entire family will get years of joy from him. From years of experience of being owned by Goldens, I'll guarantee that he is a lot Golden. Congratulations!!

Congratulations to your family and to Bonzai! I agree with the Shepherd/Golden Retriever genealogy!

Thank you for adopting from a shelter. I've just adopted a rescued breeder dog from a puppy mill ... the mother of some of those cute puppies in pet store windows. Daisy (Princess Daisy Brave and Beautiful is her full name, according to me!) has spent the first eight years of her life without care or human connection. She is slowly getting used to decent food and medical care, a house with a human who cares about her. To keep connected with her other rescuers, she has a blog at: http://fur-licity.blogspot.com

Dear Bob:

Just by looking at your new dog, I think he is a combination of German Shephard along with Golden Retriever and possible Labrador Retriever. If he is eleven weeks old and weighs around 25 to thirty pounds; then he will be a big dog! He will probably weigh around125-130 pounds when he's full grown. I do not think he has chow in him because of the color and length of his hair. That looks more like Golden Retriever! It's good to hear from a bona fide dog lover!

Congratulations. There is lots of love in that dog. Good on you for going to a shelter for a pet. The years of joy you will have will be just great. Well done.

Bob! What a beautiful and wonderful lifetime friend and companion you and your family have adopted. I am now living alone and have been looking for a friend just like Bonzai, or a similar mix. I wouldn't be surprised if Bonzai had a little Lab in him also, which is good.
Thanks for brightening our day by including Bonzia in your letter.

If you really want to know Bonzai's heritage there is a new test, which gives quite specific results. Ask your vet. Please take a bit of advice from a long time big dog owner: 1) Don't let him do ANYTHING as a puppy that you don't want to see in an adult dog (ex. sleeping in your bed, jumping up on people); socialize him with other people outside the family--the more people he interacts with as a puppy, the more prepared for successful adulthood he will be; 3) Everyone in the family needs to use the same terminology--ex. off is different from down; 4)The Michigan Humane Society has a great video called "Manners for Life." click on behavior; 5) Have fun with your dog, but remember you are his pack leader.

Fuzzy Wuzzy will be a Bonzai Bear! Good on you for saving him. Also: You might want to try the Nylabone treats instead of Rawhide chews, my son's Golden Lab stays healthier with them. Bless you and your extended family!

Very attractive puppy, Bob. Cute as a button. I can see why you wanted him. Congratulations on your new family member.

Your Bonzai is adorable!! There's nothing like a cuddly puppy around the house. Please keep us posted on his progress.

That is one cool looking hound,well done to you for taking a rescue dog,you could have called him Heinz after the baked beans.
Because 57 differant varieties.
alex in sidmouth,devon

>>This dog really loves to please, and is quickly learning the rules of the house. He is amazingly calm for a puppy, but still loves to play.
This sounds like the German Shepherd in him manifesting itself. I've had Shepherd mixes-- and one full GSD-- over the years, and they take their doggy code of honor very seriously, and they like having a job to do. Even if that job is just to be a good boy. Beautiful puppy, he's a winner!

I work with a local rescue group in McDonough, Georgia (Praying for Paws), but I've also been a supporter of both NSAL and Best Friends for years. I currently have three dogs and two cats, all rescues, and I can't imagine life without them. Thank you so much for adopting from a shelter. No matter what breed or size, your new friend will be a source of great joy and comfort to you and your family.

BRAVO! for adopting a needy shelter dog. Your Bonzai is a beauty and will, as you know, bring years of joy and delight. Was disappointed to see you advertising breeders on your site though. No reason for more dogs to be deliberately brought into a world where there are already so many wonderful animals needing good homes... OK... Congrats again and have fun!

Nothing like a puppy. Our dog had 5 in
december and they were with us for 8 weeks. It.s really hard to say good bye to them but it's also a great relief. I;d love to see them now if only to see how they've changed. Well, the three we have will have to do until next time.

Congrats! Where's my cigar? Thanks for posting the photos and telling us your fine story. It brightened my day.

Bev

We are dog lovers to the MAX, so please take good care of Bonzai as we know you will.
We have been missing the Tourbus lately and hope it will not be discontinued. I have found the best spots on the web thanks to YOU! Please keep us informed, OK? We love it!!

Awwww, how sweet! I can tell you both will share a strong bond and you'll never be sorry you rescued Bonzai. Neither will he!
I love my beloved Munch, who was 12 the end of February when she passed on. I just can't get over her. We were so close. She 'visits' every so often, has left signs that would blow you away. People will probably think I'm nuts but I'm not kidding. I just can't make myself get another doggie. They're my furry children and this one had stolen my heart. I love to hear happy stories like this, have fun and love Bonzai to pieces for me Bob!
Shar***

I can see why you saved him. What an adorable little (?) ball of fur!!