The Adventures of Darwin

Proud of my boy!

2010-09-17T11:14:00.000-07:00

(Note: I realize it has been since June that I have posted to this blog. Needless to say, Darwin has still been very busy (as has his mom between lab work and volunteering for the humane society as well as the typical summer vacations and weddings. I do not know what my posting rate will be from now until the end of the year as I am working on my comprehensive exam for graduate school, but, starting in January of next year, I hope to a) get Darwin into agility finally, b) get his canine good citizen, and c) start posting to the blog regularly.)

Darwin, for whatever reason, started to develop a fear of strangers about a year ago that became progressively worse to the point where he would growl, woof, and try to run away from any unfamiliar person that wanted to pet him (this made taking the canine good citizen test very difficult for us). I have been trying a variety of methods to help him realize that people are not scary, and that he should have nothing to fear from them (Calming signals, trying to praise him when a Scary Thing is in sight with treats/frisbee before we go over his threshold, diverting his attention elesewhere, etc.). He is afraid enough of them he won't even take a treat when offered. He seems to be making some slow, but sure progress. He has been better at the vet lately, and I've been trying to make him "check it out" when something bothers him. He understands that he gets to play if he goes and touches the object with his nose and then is not afraid of it any longer. This doesn't work quite as well with people.

A few weeks ago, we went out of town on a trip where Darwin couldn't come with us, so we kenneled him for the first time. This kennel is also a dog day care, and they speicalize in training and breeding Karelian Bear Dogs to help teach bears to stay away from civilization (their application was also 9 pages long when I was done with it and they required him to be there 4 hours for an eval prior to acceptance), so I felt very comfortable that they could understand some of his fear behaviors. Upon returning, Darwin had gone from being afraid enough of the people he wouldn't get out of the car to loving the entire staff, and they told me he'd even go up to strangers for treats! Of course, he is fantastic with dogs, so that wasn't an issue.

To see if this was something more than a fluke (and to get Darwin into a new place and out of our daily schedule of frisbee and play), we took him to Petsmart last night and he was the best that he has been there since he was a young puppy! He remembered the trainer and went up to her, was interested in smelling all the people, and would lay down and wait in the aisles while we got crickets, checked out the critters, etc. He was so much calmer and it was just wonderful to see! That made my week. I am hoping to take him on a walk in an unfamiliar park this weekend to help boost his confidence.

He has also been showing lately a willingness to at least approach people, or calmly walk by them without fear, which has been good. I think part of this is the body language I've been working on to communicate with and calm him, and part of it is that he's learning that these threats are not real.

"Mom, you know I'm awesome!"

I'm so proud of him!

I love this dog so much and can't imagine life with any other.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Back seat surfin!

2010-06-17T19:02:00.000-07:00

For longer car rides, Darwin opts to ride in style and comfort....

Inside of his kennel box...

(And don't worry. It has cushy padding in the bottom. Only the best for my little dog).

"Ooo, what's that over there?!"

"Okay, now let's see what's over here!"

"And behind the car! No one can escape my mighty corgi radar!"

"Wow. Still a lot of highway over here... *epic corgi sigh*"

"Okay, Mom. I'm bored. Entertain me!"

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Road trip!

2010-05-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

A week ago, the husband and I decided we needed to go out into the woods on a picnic, so we loaded up the dog in the car along with some food, drinks, and the ever-important frisbee. This week will present highlights from the trip.

Darwin in the car as we turned off onto a dirt road. He gets really excited when we arrive on dirt roads and starts doing his cardi singing and appearing as a head and two paws over the back seat as in the example below:

Along the way, we passed some bighorn sheep on the side of the road. Darwin gave them quite the talking to!

Then we drove on, past a rickety suspended bridge and through the woods, until at last we found a campsite where we decided to picnic. Which will be the subject of tomorrow's post.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

The weirdest positions....

2010-05-13T11:29:00.000-07:00

Bringing one's first corgi home is certainly a learning experience. Not only was Darwin my first corgi, he was also my first puppy as a responsible adult (the last one I had at eight years old and don't really remember). I'd done four years of research into the breed, but, of course, they still manage to surprise you. One thing that amuses me is the way that corgis seem to be magnetically attracted to sleeping in the weirdest positions (usually upside-down, on their backs). Darwin, as a puppy, had the proclivity to find the most absurd spaces to sleep in. Below are a few images of his relationship with our cat's scratching post.

"Uh, oh. Where's the corgi? He was just here a minute ago..."

"Oh, there he is!"

"Mom. Why did you have to wake me with that flashy thing. Can't you tell I'm growing and need my rest? Maybe if I sleep more, my legs will grow longer!"

*Notably, the middle photo is really the only picture I have where Darwin is truly asleep, as he has become wise to the sound my camera turning on and always has to get up and check it out whenever he hears that mechanical whir of the lens opening. Being stealthy with something that has such large ears is quite the challenge.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

I can haz chewable...

2010-05-11T17:36:00.000-07:00

Back when toilet paper tubes were about as big as his head. His paws can grab them better now, but corgi legs are still not perfect tools for this sort of work (allowing for their intellect to take hold and fill in the missing paw length with nearby objects of holding).

We started his love of destroying cardboard tubes early on and this is a love that has stayed with him. (In fact, we have several bags of the things lying around and he gets to tear up one or two every day or so). He doesn't eat the cardboard, though. These things were made purely for the shredding into itty bitty pieces and distributing to the four corners of the apartment, so Mom's weekly cleaning job is made that much more difficult.

But he is worth it. :)

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Sunshine boy!

2010-05-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

When we first brought Darwin home, he was afraid to cross the threshold into our apartment as it was an entirely new place (In fact, he was nervous enough, he had an accident in our doorway). However, he soon realized that this was our home, and also his new home, and turned into the smiley self he has been since then.

I swear, some days this smile is what gets me through the day.

He is definitely one of the happiest dogs I've ever met!

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

A year ago today...

2010-05-09T15:18:00.001-07:00

A year ago today, we went to look at some Cardigan welsh corgi puppies because I was feeling empty without a dog....

A year ago today, we made the decision that we would be bringing one of said puppies home with us...

A year ago today, the little cream puppy, the last of his litter at the breeder's, was named Darwin...

A year ago today, I found my heartbeat in a set of four stubby legs, a tail, some very large ears, and all the furry goodness in between.

We did not pick him up for a week, however, so for the next seven days you will be treated to baby!Darwin.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

First "swim"

2010-05-03T20:15:00.000-07:00

Well, Darwin is reasonably comfortable with wading now. However, he is not quite sure about the mechanics of swimming just yet. We are still just playing in the river, so haven't actually had a chance to take him somewhere where we can go out and have a true swimming experience.

Here's some photos of Darwin 'getting his feet (and belly) wet:'

"This giant water dish feels quite good on my belly. And the water seems to taste better. Can we get one at home?"

"Wait a minute. Something has caught my attention. Now if I can just pinpoint the source."

"Gotta go! The frisbee beckons!"

Nothing more alluring to this corgi than a Frisbee in the Wild....

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Agility Debut!

2010-05-02T21:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been awhile since I have updated this blog. This has mainly been because my semester sort of got away from me and I was not on the computer as much as I expected to be. Suffice it to say, Darwin had plenty of adventures during my absence, the most recent one being learning his first agility obstacle! (And don't worry, there are pictures of his adventures this past month, and they will be posted shortly.... though probably not until this weekend, as this is the final week of my semester).

A week ago, the in-laws were in town and we all decided to go check out PVC pipe at Home Depot. We did, of course, purchase some with the intention of making two jumps to start Darwin's agility training on. (We also bought some stick-in-the-ground posts that will serves as rudimentary weave poles- but we haven't started working with these yet so they will be a topic of a later post). My father-in-law helped me create the jump you see below in the picture, though so far Darwin and I have only worked with one (we made two). I started him on 8", but believe that he will eventually need to be at 12" (thus the two height marks on the jump) - those with agility corgis feel free to validate this or correct me if I am wrong (Darwin is 13" at the withers). (My last agility dog was lab-sized).

But you probably don't visit this blog to hear me blather on, so, without further ado, Darwin's agility debut!

"Okay, Mom. I see this thing before me. What am I supposed to do with it?" (Note the lip-bitey expression on his face)

Getting ready to jump.... Just look at the concentration on his face.

And a very blurry leap over! Yay Darwin!

"You want me to jump over it again?"

Before his first leap over the jump, Darwin first tried to go under it. When he recieved an "uh uh" from me, he tried to go around it. When that also failed to please me, he decided that maybe he should go over it! A click and a treat later and he understood.

Darwin can now be called over the jump, be directed over the jump, and we are working on getting him comfortable going over the jump as I run beside him (he still thinks that he should go around it at that point every few times). Overall, I'm very happy with our progress and he seems to be enjoying himself. I'm excited to introduce two jumps, but know I need to take my time and make sure things are correct before going any further. (We have practiced jumping in two different locations so far - my deck and an empty parking lot near my residence).

*I also taught Darwin to close a door with his nose this weekend. He really is my little superstar!

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Salty Dog

2010-03-24T19:37:00.000-07:00

...without the salt, as this is a fresh water river. Darwin has yet to have his first chance at swimming. Currently, the river is just one big drinking bowl to him. Someday, though. Someday we will see if he will be a swimmer. (Of course, we will do this in an area where we won't have to worry about him getting sucked downstream or anything like that).

On the bank of the Clark Fork river.

Such a goofy boy.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Corgi in the tall grass

2010-03-22T19:25:00.000-07:00

"Hi. I'm hiding. See how well I blend in? My Mom will never find me."

"Uh, oh. She spotted me."

"Getting closer, Mom."

"Well, now that you're here, watch as I enjoy the sunshine in all my corgi glory."

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

The Tao of Corgi

2010-03-18T21:49:00.000-07:00

In Taoism (ancient Chinese philosophy) there is a theme similar to acting as a 'stick in the river,' i.e. there are some things you cannot change, so rather than fighting them, you need to let go and float on like a stick in the river, letting the current take you where it will.

For Darwin, we call this philosophy 'frisbee in the wind' and he embraces it rather well. He may not know where we will be going on our next adenture, or what will happen, but whatever comes, he will be there to face it with a wagging tail and all his bright enthusiasm, embracing the change so long as his mom (or dad) is at his side.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Dog on a Log

2010-03-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

Darwin's Dad took him back to the state park yesterday while I was at work and thoroughly tuckered the little guy out. When I arrived home this evening, we decided to take him on a quick jaunt there again. What amazed me was that he recognized the place the third time pulling into the road that would lead us to the parking area and was making Cardi grunts of anticipation. It was rather adorable :).

In between thowing the frisbee and enjoying the nice day outside, I managed to snap a few pictures of Darwin in a new location for him: on top of a log. He wasn't quite sure about all this at first, but since he'd been asked to alternatively to sit or lay there, he did it.

The other thing that has amazed me in the last two days is that Darwin has been resorting to napping in his crate. He apparently sees this as his haven for finding deep sleep (as he sleeps in there at night and has since before he even came to us). He'd never really showed interest in sleeping in there on his own during the day until yesterday when he was tired enough it apparently seemed like the best place to nap. Tonight he has been switching back and forth between sleeping in the crate and under my chair, depending on my location. I really love this dog.

More pictures from this evening's walk coming throughout the course of the week.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Darwin is Official!

2010-03-15T23:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I finally decided what I wanted to have as Darwin's AKC registered name, so I sent in the papers. They finally arrived back.

He is: Shadowalk (the name of his kennel) Dog of a Different Color

I'm rather excited about this, as he is my first registered purebred dog! (The other was the golden retriever I had as a kid, and though I wanted to have him registered, we never did...).

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

A Day Out

2010-03-14T19:01:00.000-07:00

As it was such a nice day and my husband and I actually had a morning off together, we decided to make an adventure out to a nearby state park we had never visited but had been suggested to as a good place to take your dog and running them off-leash was allowed. So, we packed the pup into the car, along with his breakfast, grabbed some doughnuts, and headed out!

Darwin was so excited to be going somewhere (and particularly, to be going somewhere with his frisbee) that he would not eat his breakfast before we left. I poured his food into a bowl and we took it with us. Once Darwin was secure in the knowledge that he wasn't going to be left behind (and, more importantly, that the frisbee throwing would not be happening immediately) he decided to eat his breakfast,unconventially, in the car.

We arrived, and Darwin was excited by the prospect of running free in the woods. However, he was quick to remind us that we weren't there only for a nice stroll in the park (i.e. see below).

He wasn't enjoying himself at all, now was he? (and also was deciding not to quite cooperate with my idea of taking his portrait by the river).

"C'mon Mom and Dad, my legs are much shorter than yours and I'm still faster than you!"

As we neared the end of our walk, the little pointy-eared one was given a few more rounds of frisbee to wear him out so that he might spend the afternoon asleep.

"Here I come!" Galloping towards us as top speed.

Getting closer....

And back at last. Those frisbees can sure go quite aways in that open space.

We were assaulted (and by assaulted, I do not mean these other dogs were aggressive, more that there were a lot of them all at once, they were all friendly, happy, goofy dogs) by a hound, two labs (one a pup), and a rottweiler on the way back. Darwin greeted each in turn (and at one point, we almost had a train of one dog sniffing the next dog's rear sniffing the next dog's rear, etc.), and then we were off to the car. No pictures of this as it was a rather chaotic moment and the camera was off and stowed away.

Happy dog on the ride home.

"Thanks, Mom and Dad. I'm ready for a nap now, but can we go again soon?"

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Eye C U

2010-03-03T20:26:00.000-08:00

In a close-up, you can see that Darwin has glorious golden eyelashes. These are one of several orange "highlights" that he has.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Guardian of the Silver Chair

2010-03-02T18:04:00.000-08:00

Sleeping on the job.

He suddenly becomes aware that someone is watching him.

"I see you! You cannot escape the notice of my enourmous ears."

This is Darwin's favorite spot when I am at my computer. In fact, I always make sure he has vacated the area before I move my chair anywhere, as I don't want to squish him. He definitely likes to be as close to me as possible no matter where I am located in the apartment.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photos by Diane Hargreaves

Mortar boards kinda look like frisbees...

2010-03-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

At least to the untrained eye....

"Mom, those two things are not the same!"

He insisted we throw the frisbee instead of the cap to celebrate his graduating.

*Note: Please forgive the shoes and the bag of empty plastic containers in the background. I should have moved them before taking pictures, but didn't.

We may not have quite passed our CGC this weekend, but we did finish advanced obedience, so that's what the hat is all about...

"See? I'm a good boy. I'm wearing the hat all nice. Can we throw the frisbee now?"

Proud boy.

"Really? Another one? At least I don't have to wear that insipid hat this time."

"Fine. I'll smile."

"And look. I will do a trick for you. Now throw that darn frisbee already!"

"Whatever you say, Superdog...." The frisbee is thrown. There is a clack of toenails and a flash of a fluffy butt, and the photo session is over.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Canine Good Citizen... Almost

2010-02-28T19:44:00.000-08:00

Well, we didn't quite pass our Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test yesterday, but we were so very close! In my mind, Darwin has already passed it. We will be retaking it on March 20th and will spend the time between now and then polishing the few things Darwin needs work on. His obediecne is flawless, which makes me feel good.

For those not familiar with it, the test consists of ten components. Dogs need to pass all 10 in order to get the CGC certification. They can miss one test and retake it an additional time the same day to see if they pass. Darwin, unfortunately missed two, so was not qualified for a retake. However, I understand exactly what we need to do to prepare for our next examination.

The tests, and how Darwin did with each...

The first three tests were grouped together and involved the same "stranger" in our exam.

Test 1: Accepting a friendly stranger - The owner walks toward a "stranger" and asks the dog sit and stay and his/her left side. The owner then steps forward to shake hands with the stranger while the dog stays in place.

Darwin was perfect. He sat and stayed as required for the test. Pass.

Test 2: Sitting politely for petting - In the second portion of the exam, the "stranger" asks if he/she can pet the owner's dog, and the owner aquiesces. The "stranger" pets the dog. The dog is not allowed to show fear.

Darwin, who has been somewhat reluctant to greet people (we've been working really hard on this and he is becoming more comfortable with it) did just fine and went up to the "stranger" and allowed her to pet him. Pass.

Test 3: Appearance and grooming - The dog must allow a stranger to check his/her ears, paws, and run a brush down his/her back to simulate comfort with strangers such as the vet or groomer.

Darwin was not real excited to have the woman touch his paws (though he doesn't care if we do it at home - this is related to his mistrust of strangers that we are working on). He backed up when she tried to reach his paws, though was okay with the brush being run down his back. Fail.

Test 4: Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead) - The dog needs to demonstrate that he/she will listen to the owner, walk on a loose leash, and respond to changes in direction.

Our test had us make a right turn, then a left turn, then a U-turn, then a stop, then continue walking until a second stop is made. Frisbees on the floor highlighted where we needed to perform each task. Darwin's heeling was flawless. I made him sit at all stops before continuing, which is not required, but something I've taught him to do for a good heel. Pass.

Test 5: Walking through a crowd - The dog is required to walk on a loose leash through a crowd of people and a few dogs. The dog can show interest in those around him/her, but cannot pull towards them, etc.

Our crowd consisted of Petsmart employees and fellow classmates who decided not to take the test (along with their dogs). I put Darwin in a heel and he pretty much ignored everyone around him as we made our way through the crowd. He was brilliant! Pass.

Test 6: Sit and down on command and Staying in place - Dog must demonstrate the ability to sit and down on command. The owner may put the dog in either position in a Stay, walk away the indicated distance, then turn back around and release the dog from the stay upon arriving back at the dog.

Once again, Darwin's obedience was flawless. He performed this perfectly. A few of the other dogs taking the test were not so willing to down on the cold floor, which made me even prouder of my own dog. Pass.

Test 7: Coming when called - Dog is put in a Wait, owner walks the indicated distance, then calls the dog to come.

Darwin does this excellently. I make him "touch" my hand when he arrives, but his recall from a wait is always very enthusiastic. Pass.

Test 8: Reaction to another dog - Dog and owner heel to a specified location and stop. Dog is put in a sit-stay at the owner's side. At the same time, a stranger with a dog performs the mirror move, allowing both owners to get to a location where they can step forward, leaving their dogs in a stay, and shake hands. The owners then return their dog to a heel and walk past each other. The dog taking the test may not move forward of the owner towards the new dog, nor may he/she lag behind as the dog passes.

Darwin was perfect. I don't really need to say more. He was interested in the other dog, but listened to me and did not let his interest dominate. Pass.

Test 9: Reaction to distraction - Dog needs to be able to handle random and sudden distractions such as a book falling, a crutch being banged on the floor, etc. They can startle, but may not run away.

Darwin had a really difficult time with this. We were placed in the middle of the store, surrounded by the other dogs taking the test and their owners. Darwin was already a little uncomfortable with the chaos around him, and when the evaluator started shaking a poster next to his head, it was too much and he tried to run away. We will need to work on this in the next few weeks, making him comfortable when chaos is happening around him. Fail.

Test 10: Supervised separation - Dog is required to stay with a stranger on a 6 ft leash for three minutes while the owner is out of sight. They can show slight nervousness, but not overt anxiety or aggression, and may not whine or bark.

I left Darwin and came back three minutes later. The girl who had his leash said that he did really well, which I was glad of, as Darwin does not like being separated from me at all. Pass.

And that was the test. We missed two, so failed. But Darwin did so very well, and he has come a very long way with his training in just six weeks. Four more weeks emphasizing where we failed and we should nail this. With how perfect his obedience was yesterday, I am beginning to think maybe we should train for Rally at some point, as he seemed to enjoy it and did so very well. I'm proud of him, and while slightly disappointed we didn't pass our first time through the CGC, am confident that we will (and some of the other people taking the test with me confessed that in most classes, maybe one dog passed the first time, but most pass the second time). We were invited to join the Advanced class that will be in week 3 of 6 next weekend (and will be taking our CGC again with them in week 6). We will use this time to work on having people "groom" Darwin and getting him more comfortable in a chaotic situation.

Regardless, I have an amazing dog and am so very proud of him. We are really starting to gel as a team and I believe that we will accomplish great things together.

And, so I don't leave you with a huge hunk of text and no pictures, here are a few from yesterday.

Darwin was in an exhuberant mood yesterday, which was wonderful, particularly when we needed to go "show off" for a judge.

"Hi, Mom. I know you want a nice picture of me for graduation, but I'm not going to allow that. See, I stick my tongue out at you. Though at least the bandana is better than that stupid hat."

Here, we were attempting to get a class photo. Obviously, that wasn't working out too well.

"Mom, I'd look at you like you want me too, but someone is being rude and sniffing my butt without my permission!"

"Okay, he's leaving me alone now. See? I'm looking at the camera now. Though I'm still a little worried about a hit-and-run butt sniff from behind so I'm keeping my ears back."

**As you can see, Darwin was a bit stressed by having all these other dogs around him and owners rushing in and out, barking commands. This is what we need to work on getting him comfortable with.

But just so you don't think that was his only mode... Here's a picture from a minute later, when I went back up to him.

And, sadly, the best one of the bunch. My fellow test-takers were the little yorkie, the boxer, and the dachsund. The latter two passed.

"Mom, can I please come a little closer to you? These other dogs smell funny."

Tomorrow: Darwin in his graduation hat! (We got to take it home, so I made him pose for several pictures, but less you think it was all puppy torture and no fun, he got some frisbee time in between photos)...

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Who watches the watchers?

2010-02-26T22:35:00.000-08:00

Turns out the girl with the camera does!

This photo is of Darwin and his uncle Max in the rear of my vehicle, watching the world go by and ensuring that no one escapes without them seeing them. My in-laws were in town a couple of weekends ago, and I couldn't resist snapping this photo as we were on our way to a walk in a new place! Now, Max may look okay with having Darwin as a cargo compartment buddy in this photo, but while the car was in motion, the pointy-eared little devil thought it was fun to harass his poor uncle. After all, that amount of space is enough room for a corgi-sized lump to move around in, right?

Been a bit AWOL on the blog lately. This is mainly the fact that I haven't had time to take pictures of the star of the blog, but also that we have been training hard for our Canine Good Citizen test that happens tomorrow! Wish us luck!

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Whereupon I kaput Darwin's brain...

2010-02-08T18:10:00.000-08:00

Obedience class can be grueling. Likewise, Darwin spent most of Saturday afternoon following class out cold on the floor, and most of the day yesterday, like this:

"This is my couch."

And why was it so grueling, you ask?

Well, not only did Darwin have to stay as other dogs walked circles around him (with many other distractions going on in the meantime), but he had a frisbee thrown for him, went racing after it with all his characteristic enthusiasm, and had to "leave it!" before he reached the disc, come back to me, then wait until I released him to go get it. My husband proclaimed this 'bonafide puppy torture' when I told him about it upon arriving home. Truly it was, but Darwin did surprisingly well with it all.

I was actually very proud of him on Saturday. He is becoming more comfortable with crowds and random objects coming around corners. His stays were better than most of the other dogs in the class, and when it came our turn to wheel around the other dogs, he remained absolutely focused on me in a heel all the way to the end. Very proud of him.

He definitely earned a rest on Sunday and couch priveleges.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Puzzling kibble

2010-02-04T13:19:00.000-08:00

As promised, here is Darwin's new means of eating his evening batch of kibble. It took a few more days to post than I thought it would, as I have been extremely exhausted in the evenings as the result of skiing last Sunday for the first time in about 7-8 years and coming down with a cold that has slowly been eating my energy all week. But here they are!

I decided a few weeks ago that Darwin needed some more mind games in his daily routine, so I created this simple puzzle for him out of plastic, disposable tupperware-like containers. He loves it! And attempts to get the pieces apart in several different ways. Each night he gets better and better at this, so soon I will have to think of something entirely new to work his brain with.

Getting the lid off an down to the first layer with a handy nose-butt...

Sometimes throwing it works....

Dainty extraction of the final barrier layer....

Of course, he is not allowed to keep the containers after he is finished, as Mom really doesn't want to spend an exhorbitant amount at the vet's having them extract little pieces of potentially sharp plastic from his digestive tract, though Darwin expresses that he really would like to be given these containers on a more long-term basis...

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

You know your dog understands a command when...

2010-01-31T20:24:00.000-08:00

** He is able to peform the command that was given 200 miles away OVER THE PHONE. A few weeks ago, when I was home saying goodbye to Jarod and called my husband to say 'goodnight,' he told me to give Darwin a command over the speaker phone to see what he would do. I said 'Down,' and down Darwin apparently went! I was rather impressed.

**This morning my husband took Darwin along for a breakfast run and stopped to get gas on the way. Through the rear hatch window, Darwin was given the hand signal for the 'Down' command, and through glass, executed it perfectly.

Yes, you know your dog understands a command when he can perform it by only hearing your voice coming out of that strange and mysterious box that does not smell at all like the person speaking (And just how his people fit in there, he will never know) or through a glass window in a gas station parking lot via a hand signal, he gets it.

Was working with Darwin on his 'wait's and 'stay's tonight while out playing frisbee in the new snow we recieved today. He performed a perfect 'wait,' even with me tossing the frisbee a short distance. This is the first time we've ever tried this command with that kind of a temptation. Go Darwin! His 'stay's were also lovely tonight.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

*Also, I realize this is the first post I've made without a picture of any sort. It makes me a little sad, but I will make up for it tomorrow with movies and pictures of Darwin and his new method of obtaining his dinner.

Six Words.

2010-01-29T20:13:00.001-08:00

*Note: I did not reduce the size of some of the pictures for this post. I apologize for the bits that got cut off.

Patricia McConnell has written some wonderful books on dogs and has been an inspiration to me for the last few years since I discovered her. She has a blog entitled The Other End of the Leash. One of her dogs, Lassie, passed away a few days ago, and so she decided to summarize Lassie's life in six words, similar to Hemingway's challenge to write the shortest story possible. (His was: For Sale. Baby Shoes. Never Worn.)

I have decided to take up this challenge for each of the three dogs who have been a large part of my life.

Murphy:

Childhood companion. Always happy. Ball keeper.

Murphy was my first dog. A golden retriever who was far from perfect, he was still the love of my life as a child. Most of my stories and art revolved around him, and I spent most of my afternoons either taking him for walks or playing with him in our backyard. I'd loved dogs since I understood what one was, worshipped them, and had to wait until I was eight years old before actually having one in my life full-time. All of my play as a child revolved around stuffed dogs, my invisible friend was a dog uncreatively named 'Spot,' and I read as many books on dogs as I could get my little hands on. And when Murphy came into my life, that was it. He only strengthened my love for these wonderful animals. He was big for a golden, 95 pounds and did not have a lot of obedience training, but that didn't matter to me. He was my companion, and I have not forgotten him, even though he has been gone for eight years. Of course, he had that happy golden retreiver personality and a love of tennis balls, so he was always carrying one around. He was my first dog, and is therefore, very special.

Jarod:

Rescue. Agility buddy. Therapy dog. Teacher.

Ah, Jarod. I still can't belive he is gone. I am actually thinking about starting a blog for him where I post all my photos (as I got my first digital camera about the same time I got him and took many wonderful artistic shots of him) and tell stories that may eventually go into a book for myself and my mom, his two favorite people. I miss him dearly. He was my first dog after Murphy, and I think I needed him as much as he needed me. He was a rescue from the shelter, had been there a week, was a stray, and did not approach me when I went by his run. But, looking for a dog that might be similar to a golden retriever in breed character, as he looked mainly like a lab, I took him to the "Get-to-know-you" pen and he soon let me pet him. He came home with me, and helped me get through one of the roughest years of my life. We started agility together and he helped me get hooked on the sport, at least until his hips started to go. He was my therapy dog in that he provided me with something I, who was suffering from extreme anxiety about life, needed to function. He taught me so much about how to teach and communicate with a dog. I feel so grateful that he came into my life. He had to move in with my parents for his last year, and I think he was my Mom's heart dog. He is so sorely missed.

Darwin:

Darwin's is a bit more difficult, as his life has barely begun and we still have so many journeys to make. But I'll give it a try...

Mirth maker. Frisbee catcher. Occasional trouble.

Darwin. Well, I don't think I need to say much about him here, as this entire blog is based around him, but he is my first cardigan welsh corgi, fulfilling a dream I've had for quite some time. I've spent the last day pondering Darwin's six words. His were the hardest to write of the three dogs, as there were so many facets of him to put up here. Other options were: Silly, sunshine boy - to account for his joyful, often humorous approach to life; Love on four legs - because that is what he is to me, Constant companion - as he is at my feet 95% of the time and follows me when I move from place to place, he's only out of eyesight when he's feeling like getting into a little bit of trouble; Dream come true - because he is my first corgi and has fulfilled pretty much all my expectations about him, I do believe that the cardigan is definitely a heart breed of mine now; Ray of sunshine - also came to mind, as he is always happy and ready to go in the morning, giving me the biggest smile as we step out the door for his morning potty and frisbee session (I swear, that smile is a great way to start every day); Future journeys or Learning together are others I could have chosen; and there were others, but those were my top choices.

Suffice it to say, Darwin means a lot to me, and there are a lot of aspects of him I consider important in summing him up. I love his herding instinct, his desire to learn, even when I'm not the clearest in teaching him, the way he can be scooped up because he is not too big of a dog, the way he loves affection and gives affection back, his daily bout of zoomies which are triggered by the oddest things, his talking the classical cardigan language about everything under the sun, the way he needs to take any obstacal such as going around a tree or over something to return to me, even when there was a path free of such things, his stubby legs, his beautiful head, his nice, even gait when he runs, how he is curious about the world, going on adventures with him, having him lay next to me in the car or put his head on my leg when we are sitting on the couch, just having him be there when no one else is around is such a comfort, and every day is better as long as he is a part of it. I honestly could go on, but I think I will stop for now. He is such a wonderful little dog and I love him so very dearly. He has made such an impact on me and we have not even had him a year yet. We have so many things we will do together during his lifetime, and he is teaching me further how to be a better trainer and companion to any dog. I love him.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Darwin photo with frisbee by Diane Hargreaves, all the rest of the photos by me!

Happy Birthday Darwin!

2010-01-29T19:54:00.000-08:00

You were 1 year old yesterday! We are so proud with how you've made the transition from something that resembles a blind guinea pig to the handsome dog you've become today!

For your birthday, we made you a cake. In the grand tradition of dog birthdays under your Mom's watch, you were given a biscuit "cake" cemented together with peanut butter. Sure, not the best thing for you, but it's your birthday! Also, as sad as this may seem the "no people food" rule also applies on your birthday (excluding peanut butter)...

The "cake." I'm used to working with larger biscuits, so this is a little more awkard looking than the structures of the past. But is is complete with dog hair! And a "1" made out of a biscuit sticking out on top! Looks appetizing, right? Darwin certainly thought so, and spent the preparation time at my feet vocalizing his desire.

"Mom, I've been waiting a really long time. Can you tell Dad to let me go, so that I may eat my cake? You're not supposed to torture puppies on their birthdays, after all."

He is not focused at all on his goal.

Chowing down. The only thing that exists is Darwin and the contents of the bowl. The rest of the universe might as well be empty.

The Leaning Tower of Biscuits has been efficiently felled and is rapidly disappearing.

Sad face and empty bowl.

But hope springs eternal as he makes a second check to get the few remaining nanoparticles within.

Happy birthday to my buddy, my companion, my little corgi who has fulfilled so many wishes.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

*Side note: Tonight we went to Petsmart to work on our Stays, Heels, and Come from a Wait. Darwin did really well! Of course, tomorrow the distractions will be intensified, so we shall see how it all goes. He understands the commands for the most part, it is really extending the Heel that we need to work on at this time (and not pulling on the leash when we see another dog)...

Worshipper of the Divine Frisbee

2010-01-26T17:23:00.000-08:00

This is Darwin's goofy, happy, "I worship the frisbee and everything round and able to fly through the air like the frisbee" face. As you can imagine, I see this face quite a bit. Such focus in his eyes, even though the rest of his body is asking for a break (read: that rather large tongue sticking out of his mouth).

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Obedience class was a little rough on Saturday. We had seven other dogs in the class and were working on our training in the middle of Petsmart. It had been awhile since Darwin had been in that kind of environment and he was a little bit overwhelmed for the first half of the class. His "Stay" was among the top of the class, though, so our work lately has been paying off...

Dirty Corgi + Bath

2010-01-22T18:38:00.000-08:00

Arriving home from a very enjoyable walk, Darwin senses that his Mom has evil intentions.

"You've tied me to the door. This does not bode well."

His Mom leads him to the bathroom and removes his collar. She never removes his collar.

Uh, oh.

Soon, the water in the tub begins its thundering cascade.

Darwin lies as still as he can and hopes somehow to develop the ability to blend into the floor mat. Perhaps the dirt will help.

(Note the muddy belly and feet. The harsh bathroom light does not do them justice.)

"I'm not here, Mom."

As disturbing and deafening as the sound of the tub filling is, what is worse is the palpable silence as the knob is turned off and the faucet slowly settles into a quiet and periodic drip.

In one sudden movement, Darwin is lifted up and placed in the lukewarm water.

"I'll have you know, this is puppy torture. See my eyes? Yeah, that's me being melancholy. Watch as I cripple you with my epic woe."

"That didn't work? Then I suppose I will survive." *heavy puppy sigh* "If I must."

The aftermath.

And one clean corgi prepped with the wet-dog zoomies. He always likes to get his Mom back for this torture by running around the living room, spreading his dampness to everything he touches. And in record time!

And that is that...

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Note: Tomorrow we start advanced obedience. Wish us luck! We are rather out of practice with our heeling and staying....

Walk finale

2010-01-21T21:22:00.000-08:00

And as an end to our walk, with an increasingly muddy corgi at hand, I attempt to get a picture of Darwin with the statue people that live on campus (see top of the photo). However, Darwin cares not for things that lack motion and is instead much more interested in a moving person out of the photo frame. Ah, well.

Though I must say, he seems to make a pretty good statue himself.

On our way back to the car, I was amused at the little corgi-sized tracks being left on the pavement.... So, naturally, I had to take a photo.

However, Darwin denies any involvement in the making of said tracks...

"C'mon, Mom. My feet are much bigger than that. Honest."

Coming up in the next post: The aftermath. Wherein Darwin gets an impromptu bath and makes some very unimpressed faces.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Afterthought: This walk was a really great thing for both Darwin and I. We play and train together, but it has been awhile since we have just gone out on a good ol' fashioned adventure. I think we will try to do one of these every weekend in a new place.

What is this new form I see before me?

2010-01-20T18:13:00.000-08:00

Further on into our walk from Sunday, Darwin discovered Something New! Something Amazing! Something Herdable!

But like all great scientists (and I strongly uphold that dogs can explore their world in the trial-and-error scientific method of discovery), he had a few dense moments prior to his discovery.

Darwin: "Corgi-scan initiated. Hum, what's up ahead of us? Nothing interesting. Just fog, fog, and more fog."

Darwin: "Corgi-scan to the right... What's this magical little thing in front of me?" *Note: look in the tree*

*Darwin and the creature eye each other for a moment*

*Darwin takes a second to woof at the newcomer to see how it will react. The small, furry creature shoots further up the tree.*

*Not a big fan of this third picture, as it was snapped rather rapidly, in an attempt to capture the action, but it fits the story.

Darwin thinks about this for a moment before proceeding... "Well, it's smaller than me, which is good. It's furry like that cat-thing that lives at home. It's fast, which is basically an invitation for me to chase it. And it is up in a tree like those flying things I love to try and catch, though never can. Classification: herdable."

And there you have it! The remainder of the squirrels we saw that day had to run in fear of the mighty corgi attempting to herd them.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**This really was Darwin's first recognition of a squirrel. They have suddenly exploded in our town, and while he had had the opportunity to see one before, he never really NOTICED them until now...

Fog Walk Continued

2010-01-20T07:42:00.000-08:00

Continuing on with the walk photos from Sunday... (Incidentally, the weather looks like it does in these pictures again today... after a few clear days in between.)

No Darwin in sight! That would be because he was hanging around next to me when this picture was taken. This is the UM University (Main) Hall, looming out of the fog.

Darwin posing next to one of the many sculptures that line the campus. I wanted to pose him a little better but his expression was just cute enough, I let him be.

*Note: The above photo was taken before he found all the muddy patches on campus. His belly and paws are still pristine. A bath was in order when we got home, which Darwin was not entirely appreciative of.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Darwin v. Grizzly

2010-01-18T15:58:00.000-08:00

I had to work on campus for a few hours yesterday and so took Darwin with me. He got to wait in the car while I checked on my cultures in the lab. Watching him out the window, he just sat in the front seat and kept his eyes on the door I had used to get into the building... totally ignoring the bowl of kibble sitting unguarded in the back seat. Priorities, I guess...

When I was finished, we took a walking tour of campus in a morning fog. It was an eventful walk, and I will post a sprinkling of pictures from it over the course of this next week.

But first, here is Darwin and the UM Grizzly, both looking off into the distance.

Darwin wasn't quite sure about me putting him up there at first, but did as I asked and gave me a "sit" and a "wait."

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Contained joy...

2010-01-17T19:53:00.000-08:00

Darwin is so focused on his frisbee that one does not see his joy expressed in his tail during the game. However, when he is given a moment to rest... the full extent of his happiness is expressed. And it doesn't stop until he gets up to bring me the frisbee for the next throw.

Such a happy boy.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

And finally....

2010-01-11T21:01:00.000-08:00

Darwin's third and final Christmas present was his new 'Park it' blanket. We are working on training this command and, as the cat decided to claim his last one as her own and the previous one belonged to Jarod origninally, Darwin was given a new one that is all his own and put away when we are not using it so the cat can't get it. I really love the colors in it (Of course, I picked them out, but my mother-in-law put them together nicely).

Darwin, looking less than enthused. Still in the sweater, having to 'park it,' and no frisbees in sight. Truly, he is a tortured puppy. And on Christmas day to boot!

Later on in the day, Darwin found a bone and decided to lay on his Uncle Max's feet to chew said bone. Uncle Max can be a very patient dog, to have a corgi butt on his front feet and no bone of his own.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photos by Diane Hargreaves

Mad, mad corgi style

2010-01-10T16:12:00.000-08:00

You may remember the green sweater from the final picture in yesterday's post. It is the feature of today's. Darwin's Grandma made him a sweater for those days when the cold was enough to force Darwin's humans to look like the Michelin man. It was green in color to reflect the verdant hills in the lands of the Cardigan heritage. Plus, it just looked nice on him ;).

Putting a sweater on a corgi is a multi-step process. And, of course, there should be treats involved.

Whew! Houston, we have a sweater.

Posing in his new duds. "Aren't I cute?"

"Okay, Mom. I've been on display long enough. Can we take this thing off and get back to those frisbees from earlier?"

"Really now. Maybe if I shift my head and give you sad eyes from a different angle, you'll yield..."

"Okay. Belly rubs are an acceptable substitute, I suppose."

(This last one is my favorite... Love that expression. And the stretched out legs.)

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photos by Diane Hargreaves

Were you a good little corgi this past year?

2010-01-09T22:40:00.000-08:00

Turns out Darwin was. For the most part. But what can you expect. The occasional spell of trouble is half the fun, right?

So, for Christmas, Darwin was given a variety of things... the first of which, being....

You guessed it. Frisbees. Darwin, as you can tell, was ecstatic.

Finally getting around to posting the Christmas pictures. This is post 1 of 3. Will still do a Jarod memorial post, but tomorrow, as I am really tired tonight.

And what to wondering Corgi eyes should appear? No, no, not reindeer. A pair of frisbees. "Is that what I think it is, Mom?"

"Tastes like frisbees. Yes I can taste them through the plastic. They call to me."

"Well, what are you waiting for. Open them up!"

"Can we play now? See, I'm being such a good boy." Unfortunately, Darwin, no, we cannot. We still have more gifts to unwrap for you! See, look at this lovely green corgi-sized sweater!

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photos by Diane Hargreaves

Back on track, at last

2010-01-08T13:04:00.000-08:00

Wow. Sorry I've been so absent from the blog lately. School has finished, but then there were the holidays (which I have pictures from, I just need to download them), and my former dog, Jarod, being diagnosed with lung cancer and my having to rush back to my hometown to visit him one last time, and, now, after several weeks of traveling on my weekends, I finally feel like I'm getting back to my normal life. I also haven't had a lot of time to take pictures of Darwin during the scant daylight in the evenings, so I'm working on that now as well. He is nearing one year old, only 20 days to go!

As for Jarod, I will be putting up a special blog post tomorrow, as he was such an important dog in my life. He taught me a lot about the canine mind, how to teach it, and the true meaning of the canine-human partnership. He got me interested in agility and, while we never competed, helped me learn how to train in that (at least preliminarily) as well. He was my first rescue dog, and came a long way in the five years since we rescued him from the shelter. He was good to Darwin, and though he had to go live with my parents because he couldn't mentally deal with the stress of apartment life and enjoyed the solitude of their house instead, was never far from my mind. And he gave so much to my parents, particularly my mom, that it was really the best move I could have made, even though I missed him.

But I will talk about him in greater detail tomorrow. He passed on last night after only a week-long struggle with the worst of the cancer (i.e. he was symptomatic), and my parents tell me that he was dignified at the end. Truly a gentleman to the last. But, thankfully, we all had the chance to spoil him and enjoy all his favorite things with him for a final amazing week.

Here is a photo of him from this summer:

Thank you, Jarod. You definitely left some big paw prints to fill.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

SNOW DAY!

2009-12-13T21:13:00.000-08:00

Well, the snow has finally arrived in all its white, fluffy glory (and in time for Christmas too!). It started yesterday afternoon and has continued unrelentingly until sometime this afternoon, covering the ground in about a half-foot of powder. It looks like it has finally decided to stay! (Though, unfortunately, it is not quite sticky enough for snowballs).

Darwin, naturally, was ecstatic. He had his first introduction to the concept of snow a month back, but there wasn't enough for him to truly get the 'powder experience.' Today changed all of that. I could describe how he took to this metamorphosis of his world, but I think it's better to show you. He had a multitude of varied, and highly entertaining, reactions...

So, I present to you, 'Cardi in Snow,' or 'Is that a white blur I see before me?"

"Mom, what am I supposed to do with this? I like that it's cold and that it's wet. It tastes rather good. But, it's up to my chest, Mom..."

"Oh, now I see, I'm supposed to run through it!"

**Note: He kind of has to bounce through snow. This is highly adorable and entertaining.

"Okay, that was fun. Is there anything else we can do with this stuff?"

Darwin ventures forth into the great white unknown.

Investigating (I love his curious face).

"Maybe I'll just take a break for a moment."

Old man snow beard.

Fire Hydrant In Winter.

Having a good shake to get the snow off his whiskers.

Leash blooper.

Eating his first snow ball.

The adventure continues (I love this photo).

We both returned back to the apartment soaking wet. But it was well worth it.

Unfortunately, Darwin has not yet discovered the joy of rolling in the snow. But I'm sure that will come in time.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

2009-12-09T09:50:00.001-08:00

So I apologize for the absence of Darwin on the blog over the last month and a half, but that will be changing soon. This semester of graduate school was something else, and as I near the end of the semester, the challenges keep building (but it is all over next Friday, thankfully, and essentially finished with classes altogether so will have more time in my evenings to post long-term). There have also been a smattering of holidays and other events that have kept me from sharing the highlights of my little corgi's life.

Rest assured, he has been having adventures, getting in copious amounts of frisbee chasing and cat bothering, and, most recently, helping to decorate our apartment for his first Christmas. He was quite the little helper and even managed to fall asleep on a pile of tinsel in the process. As soon as I can fenegle these photos off my husband's phone, they will be posted here.

I'm rather excited for the winter break, for while I will be busy working in my lab, I am planning on intensifying Darwin's trick training. I have recently started working on teaching him the concept of the target stick, which is a first for me as well, so we are learning this together.

I would also like to refine his formal obedience (heeling, etc.) as we have been rather lax in this of late :P.

He's nearly 10.5 months old now and is such an integral part of our family it's difficult to comprehend the fact that there was once life without him. We have now had him for almost seven months, and I am looking forward to what the next year will bring.

In conclusion, I leave you with a photo of Darwin from this summer to represent the fact that the blog has merely been 'sleeping' the last month and a half, though Darwin rarely does during the day, as he is a busy little guy:

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Faster than a speeding Golden Retriever

2009-11-03T17:42:00.000-08:00

So, Darwin has been absent from his blog for a few days from no fault of his own. His Mom just happened to have some midterms that ate up about 70 hours of her life last week, and so he was not able to make an appearance.

However, those are over now, so... back to the regularly scheduled Corgi-fest.

Well, as I indicated earlier, Darwin had his graduation walk on Friday for Intermediate obedience. He passed with flying colors, and after the obedience 'exam,' we were invited to do a couple of activities (The Longest Stay, and The Fastest Dog). For the latter, the dogs were placed in a 'wait' on one end of the aisle and the owners walked down a ways and called the dog to come from the wait. Whoever arrived back at their owner the fastest was pronounced the winner.

Darwin's competition was a golden retriever named Mojo. Mojo's owner turned to me and told me that I was probably at a disadvantage having a dog with such short legs. I told him that, while Darwin's legs were short, he is a fast little bugger.

Sure enough, when it came time to release the dogs, Darwin beat the pants off of the golden retriever, frantically racing towards me at top speed. He even had to make a few victory lap zoomies afterwards, to continue proving that he was the 'fastest dog.'

He continues to try to break his speed record on a daily basis.

3...

2...

1...

Blast off!

Let's just hope I can channel this rocket-powered drive when we begin agility next summer...

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Funny Face

2009-10-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

Darwin certainly is a little character.

(I feel like telling him: "Better not leave your face like that or it'll get stuck that way...")

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

The Chair Shark

2009-10-29T18:35:00.000-07:00

Darwin has recently figured out that ripping his stuffed toys apart is a) quite possible and b) extremely fun. Particularly the removal of those troubling squeakers (which are removed from his mouth by us immediately after he extracts them). Last night, he finally managed to remove a squeaker from within a removable pouch that had once been inside the head of his Kong-brand Snake. The squeaker and the pouch were set upon a chair to remove them from his reach.

However, being the smart little corgi that he is, Darwin had a different idea...

*WARNING: THIS POST IS EXTREMELY PICTURE-HEAVY (i.e. I couldn't decide on my favorites so I included pretty much all of them!).

So I introduce to you: "Darwin, Sneak Thief and Chair Shark."

Blurry security photo captures the thief on camera. Darwin replies, "I'm not doing nothing...."

Chair Shark eyes his prize (denoted by red arrow).

Circling his prey.

"I sees it..."

*CHOMP* "I gots it!"

The prey is unmercifully dragged away, leaving only the poor lonely remnants of a squeaker behind...

Enjoying the spoils of the hunt. At leat, that is, until Mom takes it away and puts it back on the chair.

On the hunt again...

When photographers and wild beasts size each other up...

Darwin thinks, "Perhaps if I stick my nose up there just right...."

This chomp was too quick for even the camera to catch...

"Mine. Please don't take it away from me again..."

Back for round three... "I'll have you yet," he thinks.

Trying a new maneuver.

Not quite...

Success!

Oops. Dropped it. (Love that white spot on the back of his head!).

"You won't get it back so easy from me this time!" (And indeed I didn't! There was quite an epic game of tug that was sadly not documented).

"Okay, okay. I'll let you be, Chair Shark. You've earned it this time..."

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

The Dreaded Frisbee Stalker

2009-10-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

I have a little stalker. He is about a foot tall, furry, and occasionally smells of wet dog.

But I'm alright with that... Especially since he's so cute and all...

*Note: This is a film of Darwin "stalking" his frisbee. He will perform this 'creeping' behavior, head down and body slinking towards towards me with full concentration on the object of his herding desire, whenever he is behind me and I have the frisbee cocked and ready to be thrown. Unfortunately, due to the fact that I am throwing the frisbee, as well as taking the video, I have not been able to capture Darwin doing this 'creep' at a slower pace, which harkens back to the behavior of herding border collies I have seen. I know he is bred for it, but it still amazes me every time I see these types of behavior come out. Instincts are fascinating things as they are not learned behavior, but the behaviors they produce are so strong! (And I have a great love for the herding behaviors - it's amazing what these dogs can do!)

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

What is love?

2009-10-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

Love is entangling yourself completely in thorny bushes with rotting leaves surrounding you looking for your dog's favorite frisbee for over a half hour in the dark while the rain pours down on you, and brings out the smell of said rotting leaves, coating you in their pungeant odor (as well as a variety of wet leaves).

This happened to me the other night, and thankfully, I found the frisbee!

And Darwin is certainly happy that I did!

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Drama, drama, drama

2009-10-26T20:42:00.001-07:00

*We've been working on the 'play dead' command lately, which I am teaching Darwin to understand as making a gun shape with my hand and saying "Bang!" as the command. He is doing rather well with it. (Of course, it is an alteration on the roll-over command and he is quite good at that as well as enthusiastic! - Corgis were built for these types of commands).

And the drama unfolds....

Darwin: (Protecting the family from some unseen, imminent, and ultimately benign danger) "Roof!"

Mom: "I'll teach you to bark at random noises!" (Gives 'Bang' command...)

Dancing the Hula... Er...Playing dead!

"Oh, Mom, you got me! See my surprise and shock?"

"Now I'm really dead, Mom. Can I have a treat now?"

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Seven groups, one choice

2009-10-25T09:06:00.000-07:00

So I'm a little behind on this activity, as most of the other blogs I read have already posted this weeks ago, but C'est la vie.

IF YOU HAD TO CHOOSE A DOG FROM EACH CKC/AKC "GROUP," WHAT WOULD YOU CHOOSE AND WHY?
(excluding your own breeds)

Group 1- Sporting
Group 2- Hound
Group 3- Working
Group 4- Terriers
Group 5- Toys
Group 6- Non Sporting
Group 7- Herding

Over the course of my life, I have loved several different breeds of dog. As a child, prior to my family bringing the first dog into my life, my greatest love was German Shepards. This love shifted to Golden Retrievers, of course, when, at the tender age of eight, one became my first dog. And now I'm a corgi person after falling in love with the breeds (particularly Cardigans) nearly five years ago.

But on to my choices:

Group 1- Sporting: Murphy was my first dog and happened to be a Golden Retriever. While there are many wonderful sporting breeds out there, I think that, given the chance, I'd own one again. They are such loveable dogs, so easy going and eager to be your buddy. So Golden Retriever would be my top choice in this group.

Group 2- Hounds: I'd have to say a beagle for this one, with whippets as a close second. I've always had a secret love for beagles, and had a stuffed one named 'Sam' as a child, so they filled my imagination at one point in my life. The only part of them I wouldn't appreciate is that bark. Hounds are amazing dogs, but I'm grateful to currently have a breed that doesn't get 'too' distracted following his nose.

Group 3- Working: Probably a Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute. I've always admired these breeds and my neighbors had a wonderful Malamute named Kodiak that I pet-sit for as a child who was an excellent dog. So perhaps I'm a little biased ;). They have a certain special mystique about them.

Group 4- Terriers: Jack Russell Terrier. I'm not really much of a terrier person. I admire them for their tenacity, but they are definitely not my top group. I think the energy of a Jack Russell would be great for agility, though.

Group 5- Toys: Probably my least-favorite group. I've never (until recently) been much of a small dog person (and I think corgis are on the borderline, still somewhat of a medium-sized dog). However, I do like the Pomeranians I've met and Papillons would also be an acceptable dog to have if I had to choose one from this group.

Group 6- Non Sporting: Shiba Inu. These little dogs have always fascinated me.

Group 7- Herding: Probably the toughest category in which to choose. The herding breeds have really captured my heart in the last few years. Someday I would love to have a purebred border collie to train and work with, as they are such amazing dogs. I don't feel my life is suited for one at the moment, but someday. That would probably be my top choice (next to Cardigan Welsh Corgis, of course). I also really love Australian Sheperds, I could own a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and have a secret love for Australian Cattle dogs. And, of course, that childhood love for German Shepards still hasn't died, so it would be in the running as well.

So there you have it...

Darwin says: "I'm still your favorite though. Right, Mom?"

Of course you are Darwin, of course you are.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Obedience champ

2009-10-24T17:30:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, Darwin just amazes me.

At obedience class last night he was perfect, performing his heeling around obstacles like a pro and with many distractions all around him. Now, this normally wouldn't be too surprising, as he is very smart and willing to work most of the time, except our practice of the necessary skills the three weeks prior had been very spotty ("Heel," "Park it"). (We haven't even developed 'heel' as a command yet and are still working on the appropriate positions before I introduce the word officially).

But last night, it was like some lightbulb went off in Darwin's head, and, in spite of Mom's obvious training failure these last few weeks(because of lack of time with graduate school demands and giving time to play instead - though I suppose we get in a little training while we play, just not 'heel' and 'park it'), he performed like a pro.

Plus, he always does it all with a great big happy smile on his face (see above).

*Note: I realize that this image does not depict a heel on the correct side. We were in fact not performing a heel but walking by the camera so Grandma could catch his movement.

*Note the second: So, I was correct about last night being the last obedience class for this session. However, the instructor extended it a week, so we will actually be doing our graduation walk next week, right on the heel of my finishing my midterms. I was very grateful for the practice last night, however.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Like a bird.

2009-10-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

Apparently corgis are capable of flight when they want to be.

All four paws off the ground. I just love how athletic this little dog is.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Oh, and by the way, we will be graduating from intermediate obedience tomorrow and will be doing our 'graduation walk' where Darwin gets to show off his stuff. Wish us luck!

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

There's a reason why we call him "Gremlin dog" sometimes...

2009-10-20T17:43:00.000-07:00

And this is one of them...

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Blooper.

2009-10-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed that Darwin's leash seemed to be wrapped around him in yesterday's photos (see below for example). The reason for this is that I was attempting to convince him to lay on his back in the leaves, and he kept giving me an enthusiastic roll-over, accompanied by a delighted bark. So I just gave up and took what pictures I could. Ah, photography with my cardigan corgi. Always an adventure.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Corgi amongst the leaves

2009-10-18T18:51:00.001-07:00

I figured I should probably snap a few photos of Darwin in the leaves before our next unexpected snow covered them up, so here are the results of my attempted photoshoot with Darwin earlier today (He was bribed with a frisbee throw after every few poses, so he really didn't suffer for it).

I think his color complements the browns of the leaves quite nicely. :)

Darwin says: "This is my serious face."

A nice one without that building in the background.

Darwin's perspective on things.

Blending in. "Nobody here but us leaves..."

Corgi-shark goes trolling for buried frisbees.

This is what Darwin is really like. As opposed to that first picture which was very obviously done just to appease Mom and her need to take endless photographs.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

The Illustrated Darwin.

2009-10-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

This wonderful bit of artwork was done by Shep over at Cardigan Complex. It definitely captures Darwin's enthusiasm for his frisbee as well as his unique color.

Thanks again, Shep!

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Sharing, Darwin style.

2009-10-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

Darwin can, on occasion, share.

Proof below, in photos from this August when we traveled back to my hometown for a visit and a wedding.

The Brittany Spaniel is Darwin's Uncle Max, owned by my in-laws.

"Hey, Uncle Max!"

"Yes?"

"I have a frisbee."

"See what I can do with it?"

"I'll share it with you if you want me to."

"Go ahead. Take it."

"Or I can just give it to you."

"Oh, you don't want it?"

"Then I guess I'll take it off your paws. And take it somewhere else!"

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photos by Diane Hargreaves

Florence NightenCorgi

2009-10-15T18:42:00.000-07:00

Darwin has been pulling double cuddle duty with all the sickness in his house. First his Mom caught something nasty, now his Dad has it. In between all this sick people watching, Darwin has still managed to find time to rip open several stuffed toys (that were purchased for him), chew through some cardboard tubes (that were given to him), and, of course, chase that darn frisbee that always seems to get away (as well as that cat!).

Whew!

Sometimes being a corgi is so hard.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

"What's this?"

2009-10-09T13:52:00.000-07:00

So Darwin had his first real experience with snow this morning. And I have to say, watching a young dog trying to figure out what all that white stuff on the ground is was both entertaining and served to brighten my day right off the bat.

At first, he was unsure about what had happened to his world, but one lick of that cold, white, wet stuff and he was hooked. He spent the next few minutes prancing about in pure joy and periodically pausing to eat some more snow off the ground.

"Hmmm, there appears to be some strange white stuff on my nose."

"Perhaps I should taste test it."

"Okay, for as strange as this stuff is, it recieves the Darwin Seal of Approval. Still not as good as the frisbee, though."

I haven't introduced him to the concept of a snoball yet, but you can bet that this will be happening shortly.

Watching him, I was reminded of that song from 'A Nightmare Before Christmas' entitled "What's this?" what with his frantic dashing about and all.

What's this? What's this?
There's color everywhere
What's this?
There's white things in the air
What's this?
I can't believe my eyes
I must be dreaming

* * *
I want it, oh, I want it
Oh, I want it for my own
I've got to know
I've got to know
What is this place that I have found?
What is this?

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Note: These pictures aren't perfectly in focus because Mr. Puppy was more interested in eating snow than posing, so there you go.

Born to run...

2009-10-08T18:13:00.000-07:00

Darwin has recently earned himself the nicknames of 'Thunder foot' and 'Lightning dog.' The former because he manages to make a loud thundering noise as he races across the grass after his favorite, his hallowed, his beloved frisbee, and the latter because he is just so darn fast!

Seriously, it's like we feed this puppy jet fuel or something!

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Someday...

2009-10-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

"Hi, Mom. I see this bright yellow thing in front of me, but am at a loss as to what to do with it. It does not resemble a frisbee in any way, shape or form, and is therefore, beyond my expertise."

Clearly, we have some work to do before Darwin is ready for an agility competition... heh heh heh. (Though sadly we don't get to start agility work until next summer, when I am somewhat more free from the responsibilities of the school year and he is 1.5 years old and more physically set).

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Weensy feets...

2009-10-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

"See, Mom? I can almost hide my feet underneath myself just like the cat."

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

"I wants it."

2009-09-29T20:11:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I wish my concentration on the things I want most in life was this good.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Christmas is coming early this year.

2009-09-28T18:18:00.000-07:00

Seeing as it is almost October, and this year will be Darwin's first Christmas, the puppy thought he would get into the spirit early by creating a 'snowfall' in the apartment.

Snow gremlin begins his work.

Minutes later, he has left a nice trail of 'snow' in his wake.

"Merry Christmas, Mom!"

"Now, can I have my toy back? I want to spread the Christmas cheer throughout the rest of the apartment."

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Darwin and Jarod: The Epic Struggle

2009-09-27T18:06:00.000-07:00

Here is a lengthier example of the style of play that Jarod and Darwin have adopted. They are so very good together, and Jarod has taken it upon himself to make Darwin 'his' puppy. This video is the first example of Jarod, who is normally a very dominant dog, allowing Darwin to take the upper hand. It may be rough housing, but it sure is sweet.

Those two are so great together.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Bunny Butt.

2009-09-26T17:38:00.000-07:00

While Cardigans have a tail so the likening of their keisters to a bunny's is a little less convincing, I believe that you can still see the similarity. They also tend to 'bounce' when they run, strengthening this image.

I would also accept the descriptor 'Aladdin pants,' you know, the puffy kind of pants worn by the character in the Disney movie.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Life is Good.

2009-09-25T17:35:00.000-07:00

This is Darwin's motto.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Epic tongue

2009-09-24T17:29:00.000-07:00

Whatever else you may say about Darwin, you will agree that he has an epic tongue.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Bit off more than he could chew.

2009-09-23T17:27:00.000-07:00

"Perhaps this stick is just a wee bit too crunchy."

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

"Also, I can kill you with my ears."

2009-09-22T18:12:00.000-07:00

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Abstract art (or fun with noseprints)

2009-09-21T19:16:00.000-07:00

Yes. You are right. That is indeed a small pink blurry nose print on the camera. You can see Darwin's butt in the back. It was supposed to be a nice picture of Darwin, but alas. The cat wanted some airtime on the blog, apparently.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Darwin's future career

2009-09-20T18:29:00.000-07:00

There are multiple reasons why I think that Darwin will be a great agility dog. Here are just a few:

1) While he is going through his slightly rebellious teenage phase, he is a good listener, hard working, and likes to please me. This will make training easier.

2) He is fast. I don't know yet how driven he will be with an agility course, but he is very very fast, and adores running, so I think that aspect of agility will suit him well.

3) He will go around an obstacle when bringing the frisbee back, even if he doesn't have to. He also likes to have his zoomies around the legs of the kitchen table, showing a preference for obstacles. This will also suit us well in agility.

4) He is very agile on his feet. So, not only is he quick, he can also change course without a moments notice.

Overall, I am very excited to begin his agility career next summer, and think that he will do very well with it.

And so you don't feel cheated that I didn't have a picture associated with this post, here you go. One of Darwin in full frisbee fetching mode, which is where these agility characteristics are coming out:

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Zoom!

2009-09-20T17:44:00.000-07:00

Darwin plays with the big dogs by racing around confusing them with his speed and insanity. This is a little preview of what is known as the 'Corgi zoomies' or the 'corgi 500,' which Darwin performs in our living room on a nightly basis.

I like that Jarod gets up in the middle of this, gives us a look that says, "You want me to deal with this strange little white blur?," then decides to go in after Darwin. Also, note Darwin's tail curled in a loop over his rear. I call this position 'monkey tail,' and it is also observed when cats get the zoomies.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Darwin v. Phone

2009-09-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

(Or how curiosity can get a puppy in trouble... though not is this case.)

So, Darwin is in full-fledged teenagerdom now. As the trainer explained last week, the dogs his age are at a point where they start to realize things are 'there' and thus, must explore them. Usually with their teeth.

So, it's like teething, but because of curiosity rather than a biological drive to chew.

And Darwin has made full-use of these newfound powers of discovery, picking up and chewing on items I never would have thought he should be interested in (like a bottle of leoapard gecko food) and simply must analyze everything new that is brought into the apartment (like the new magazines my husband brought home today).

My mother-in-law was on speaker phone today, and that was a new experience for Darwin. Below is a photo of him being utterly confused by the noises issuing from the small blue box resting against the cat tree.

So, even though he's a bit of a brat right now, he is occasionally completey adorable with his confuzzled face.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Purposeful Delay

2009-09-17T20:03:00.001-07:00

Sometimes Darwin doesn't race back to me with the frisbee.

He might start out strong. But then the distraction of the sheer chewey goodness of the floppy frisbee sets in.

He does make it eventually though.

**Also note the finesse with which he uses his nose to flip the frisbee over so he can get a better grip on it. Yeah, he taught that one to himself.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Also, apologies for the crappy lighting of the video.

Old Herding Soul

2009-09-15T18:55:00.000-07:00

I look at Darwin and sometimes I see the first corgi, herding those cattle/sheep in the Welsh highlands. The instinct is still alive in him, and it is an amazing thing to see awaken. He may be far removed from the place of his breed's birth, but that old herding soul is very much a part of who he is.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Anticipation

2009-09-13T10:58:00.000-07:00

This is the response I get when I ask Darwin a simple question.

(By the way, the frisbee lives on the table next to the door -- he is looking from me to it to indicate that that is indeed what he wants).

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Squish face

2009-09-12T19:43:00.000-07:00

Looking rather disgruntled.

Aaaand the close up.

This dog has so many looks.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Loofa on your head!

2009-09-12T19:36:00.000-07:00

"Why must you people subject me to such humiliating torture?"

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

The Pain of "Leave It"

2009-09-09T17:38:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of Darwin performing a "Leave It" on several pieces of kibble (kibble not pictured). He is definitely pained by the sight of food but the inability to have it.

"But Mom, it's right there! All I'd have to do is stretch out my nose and snarf it!"

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Squint

2009-09-08T19:15:00.000-07:00

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

The Towel Monster Emergeth...

2009-09-08T19:10:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday was bath day for the first time in well over a month. Darling Darwin puppy, for as much as I love him, needed to be cleaned liek woah.

The actual bath part went fine.

However, afterwards, we were attacked by a mysterious green Towel Monster that strangely reeked of wet dog.

Image of the creature below.

We were lucky to survive.

-Mel, Corgi-keepr

Night of the braying Squeaker

2009-09-06T21:32:00.000-07:00

Even when Darwin isn't 'talking' in his little Cardigan corgi language, he's attempting to make noise in some fashion or another. Here's a video with very crappy lighting to illustrate this point.

My goal is to upload approximately one video per week. We'll see how this goes...

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Aroof

2009-09-06T21:24:00.000-07:00

"I'm trying out my inside voice. What do you think?"

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Elongated

2009-09-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

"Mom, look how tall I can be!"

(Unfortunately, in Darwin's brain, jumping up is his only way of being 'taller.' He does this often and it is a behavior I am trying to break.)

Speaking of behavior, we had our first intermediate obedience class last Friday and our 'command of the week' to work on is 'wait.' So now Darwin is learning to be polite whenever we reach a doorway. Overall, this is going well. The other two members of our class are a whippet named Jazzi and a Golden retriever named Mojo. Darwin is, so far, the champion of the class.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

Expectation...

2009-09-06T17:40:00.001-07:00

Do you think they're waiting for something?

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Carnage!

2009-09-03T20:36:00.000-07:00

I came home the other night and discovered something amiss. There appeared to be white fluff everywhere, and it took me a moment to realize the source.

And the culprit.

"I didn't do this! Not at all! It was the cat!" (in spite of the clearly guilty grin on his face; also, there is clearly a hint of pride in his handiwork).

"Mom, I think it's broken."

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

(And for those of you who might worry, he was supervised during this wanton act of destruction.)

Also, RIP dear loofa dog. You had a hard life, but a longer one than I expected.

Short legs in motion

2009-09-02T21:43:00.000-07:00

"Roll over," said the trainer.

"Okay," replied the corgi.

And so it was.

(Though I think you can almost hear the little noises Darwin likes to make when he performs this trick coming out of these images).

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photos by Diane Hargreaves (who I will wish a Happy Birthday to today!)

Shake shake shake

2009-09-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

Proving, for the record, that while corgis posess really short legs, they can, in fact, do the 'Shake' command quite nicely.

Darwin, looking earnestly up at me, inquiring, "Will there be a treat soon, Mom?"

Part I of multiple 'Darwin performing his tricks for the camera' pictures coming this week.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photo by Diane Hargreaves

"Please, Mom, may I have s'more?"

2009-08-31T16:50:00.000-07:00

One of the things that has amazed me about Darwin is his ability to figure things out on his own. I did not teach him to bring me the frisbee back when we play, he came to understand very quickly that if he wanted it to be thrown again, he'd have to bring it back.

The other behavior he has demonstrated that both amuses and impresses me is the fact that when his water dish is empty, he will pick it up and bring it to wherever I am currently sitting. He first offered this behavior at 4 months and has been doing it periodically since then.

On a recent Darwin photoshoot with my mother-in-law, we managed to capture this behavior on camera.

So, without further ado, I give you, "The Water Bowl Saga: A Story In Pictures."

"Hm, there doesn't seem to be anything in here."

"However, seeing as Mom has the magical ability to fill this dish, I will bring it to her."

"Watch as I daintily set this down, making my intentions clear."

"See Mom, it's empty. Hear the hollow metal clangy noise it makes when I drop it."

"But I do wish for it not to be empty. I cannot drink the air."

"I will stare at it with my Epic Corgi Stare until you fill it."

"Here's lookin' at you, Mom."

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

**Photos by Diane Hargreaves

(A random note: We are starting intermediate obedience Friday night and I could not be more excited!)

Seven months

2009-08-28T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well, Darwin is seven months old today, which means we have had him for exactly half his life. The past three and a half months with him have been wonderful and I am looking forward to the next three and a half. I am so happy that this dog arrived in my life, with his bright personality, desire to work his little heart out for me, and occasional silliness.

I don't know where I'd be without my frisbee buddy.

So, here's to my little frisbee champion and a continued partnership between human and canine, that wonderful relationship that so resonates with my soul and makes me a complete person.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Kinetics of Cute

2009-08-27T21:40:00.001-07:00

I dare you to look at that face and not say, "Awww...."

I do believe that you will find resistance quite impossible.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Hiding in plain sight

2009-08-26T22:25:00.000-07:00

Darwin does his best to be inconspicuous. Unfortunately, that long body of his gives him away.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Boing!

2009-08-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

Little known fact about corgis. Their legs may be short, but they are spring-action loaded, and thus are good at launching themselves in the air.

Jarod's apprehension is appropriate. He is about to have a face full of writhing corgi.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Jarod for the win?

2009-08-26T21:46:00.000-07:00

"Not to alarm you or anything, but I think I broke the puppy. Oops."

It's funny that the old dog has more energy than the young one. However, the young one posesses much shorter legs and therefore must work twice as hard, so it evens out, overall.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

OM NOM NOM NOM

2009-08-26T21:43:00.000-07:00

"And now, my young puppy, I will eat your head."

Jarod really does play nice. Most of the time.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Boundless

2009-08-25T20:40:00.000-07:00

This is what joy looks like.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Communication Error

2009-08-25T20:37:00.000-07:00

"That last command made no sense, Mom. Try again."

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Darwin v. Deer

2009-08-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

Herding... Target... Acquired....

Switching to Obsessive Stare Mode... ("I can herd you with my mind. I don't even need to get up to do it. That is the magic of the corgi.")

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

The Etymology of a Breed

2009-08-22T22:03:00.000-07:00

A quote from my husband, yesterday: "Corgi. Is that Welsh for fuzzy noodle?"

In Darwin's case, I think it is.

He certainly is a long thing. In fact, we joke that his front end and back end occupy different zip codes (or focal planes, as is the case in this photo). And some days this is true, as he seems to forget that his back end is there and is surprised when it doesn't quite go where he had planned it to go - but what can you do when you're built like a tube?

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

** And for the uninformed, corgi is actually welsh for 'dwarf dog.' But I think 'fuzzy noodle' is an apt descriptor as well.

Epic frisbee fumble

2009-08-22T08:16:00.000-07:00

This is what you sometimes get when the frisbee is as big as you are!

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

He really should stick to his day job....

2009-08-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

Stealth ninja corgi not-so-quietly sneaks in to ruin the picture.

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

I Can Haz A Sekrit...

2009-08-20T19:09:00.000-07:00

*Wink* (Darwin wants you to know that he has a secret).

While the fuzzy bone appears to be bigger than his head...

...he can, in fact, fit his whole mouth around it.

Though rolling on it is just as fun...

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Evil Cat Queen Strikes Again...

2009-08-20T19:03:00.000-07:00

We return to our tail (er, tale) of the valiant struggle of our hero vs. the Evil Cat Queen in the midst of a terrible famine...

Evil Cat Queen has stolen the Sphere of Wonderous Nourishment from the good people of the land of Inside, and is hoarding it at one of her various strongholds, the nefarious Tower of Table.

Unfortunately our hero has not figured how to breach the nefarious Tower of Table to retrieve the Sphere of Wonderous Nourishment, that delightful object with its kibble dispensing power, and is force to admit defeat until he can come up with a better plan to retrieve it from the clutches of Evil Queen Cat and her Claws O'Certain Doom.

To Be Continued...

Join us next time as the pup attempts to breach the Tower and reclaim the good people's only source of food...

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

Feetz (x2)

2009-08-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

-Mel, Corgi-keeper

The Adventures of Darwin

Proud of my boy!

Back seat surfin!

Road trip!

The weirdest positions....

I can haz chewable...

Sunshine boy!

A year ago today...

First "swim"

Agility Debut!

Salty Dog

Corgi in the tall grass

The Tao of Corgi

Dog on a Log

Darwin is Official!

A Day Out

Eye C U

Guardian of the Silver Chair

Mortar boards kinda look like frisbees...

Canine Good Citizen... Almost

Who watches the watchers?

Whereupon I kaput Darwin's brain...

Puzzling kibble

You know your dog understands a command when...

Six Words.

Happy Birthday Darwin!

Worshipper of the Divine Frisbee

Dirty Corgi + Bath

Walk finale

What is this new form I see before me?

Fog Walk Continued

Darwin v. Grizzly

Contained joy...

And finally....

Mad, mad corgi style

Were you a good little corgi this past year?

Back on track, at last

SNOW DAY!

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

Faster than a speeding Golden Retriever

Funny Face

The Chair Shark

The Dreaded Frisbee Stalker

What is love?

Drama, drama, drama

Seven groups, one choice

Obedience champ

Like a bird.

There's a reason why we call him "Gremlin dog" sometimes...

Blooper.

Corgi amongst the leaves

The Illustrated Darwin.

Sharing, Darwin style.

Florence NightenCorgi

"What's this?"

Born to run...

Someday...

Weensy feets...

"I wants it."

Christmas is coming early this year.

Darwin and Jarod: The Epic Struggle

Bunny Butt.

Life is Good.

Epic tongue

Bit off more than he could chew.

"Also, I can kill you with my ears."

Abstract art (or fun with noseprints)

Darwin's future career

Zoom!

Darwin v. Phone

Purposeful Delay

Old Herding Soul

Anticipation

Squish face

Loofa on your head!

The Pain of "Leave It"

*Squint*

The Towel Monster Emergeth...

Night of the braying Squeaker

Aroof

Squint