Category Archives: Bernie X Blue
Fourth of July Weekend
~And Something like this
Breeder Comment
Yes, we received a few photos and saw others on Facebook. There were those wearing sound-proofing earmuffs to avoid the noise, and others were wrapped in blankets. But these two (Asher and Dink) just posed for Mama wearing their bow ties. It is not over until it is over, though.
Sky Raisin Patrol
~ You Never Know Where It Will End
My hero has once again saved me from the evil sky raisin…he did not take his 👀 off it until it was no more!😂🤣🐾🤦🏻♀️
Breeder Comment
It is all fun and games until the encounter with the Jalapeno variety slips into the mix. Sky raisin season is approaching quickly — have seen a few, but know they are preparing to bombard us with their in your face presence all too soon.
Happy St. Patricks Day
Michele was kind enough to let us use this lovely picture of Asher and Dink. I think it is safe to call them infamous–the rock their world—both of these boys capturing hearts and making friends.
May your pot be filled with corned beef and cabbage–and your lap be covered with a Weimar–that makes for a perfect St. Patrick’s Day evening.
Old Friends
~Reuniting with Heater Vent
As the leaves dance from limb to ground, so begins the challenge of reminding Asher — the door to the backyard cannot remain open all day. Brrr, did the weather change ever so quickly with a crisp chill in the air…it appears that fall lacked a slow grace. Even Asher noticed as he snuggled with his friend the “heater vent” today.
‘Baby it’s Cold Outside!’
Winter is coming! So does the question, what to do with the energy of a WEIM when ‘Baby, it’s cold outside’?!? Any suggestions? I am open.
Breeder Comment
Oh, the joy of winter–a lot of Weimaraners love the snow. Most, however, are not wild about the rain. Stackhouse is unfazed by the moisture falling from the sky–he looks for every puddle opportunity despite the outdoor temperature. To our chagrin–the muddier the puddle, the happier might seem. Perhaps one of our readers will share a realistic idea that will be helpful.
Winter exercise is always a problem. There are options–put on rain gear, and dress how you need and get out for the usual walk is the most common solution. We have seen people using a treadmill–that is a cool idea. Ultimately, I think what we need is a big wheel that creates electricity–maybe we could keep it going 10 hours a day. Haha–free power sounds fabulous.
At The Beach
~ With Asher
Finally made it to the beach this year…it was a sunny 70 degrees and just a beautiful day. Trying out the new 50 foot leash all was going well until Asher saw grandma in the distance. The math didn’t add up:Asher on 50 foot leash + grandma 150 feet away…does not = a smooth stroll down the beach. Note to self—let go of the leash sooner!
However it does = a tired Weim…he didn’t want to get out of bed.
Breeder Comment
Who doesn’t follow Asher? We recently learned on Facebook that he (like Willow) has a wall dedicated to his achievements. What a fantastic duo –his Mama and he are, don’t you agree?
Nose Work
~All things Aroma Focused
Well, yesterday, we heard from Asher about his exploits and challenges to earn Nose Work titles. It is pretty much a mystery to us–you have to get into the discipline to understand the nuances as well as the process. All of this has twists and turns that to the outsider seem confusing.
Michelle explained it like this- “Nose work is not an easy topic…people have spreadsheets to sort out their titles and levels.”
I have been wondering about this discipline as I know many of you have too. We know at least six OwyheeStar Weims who are engaged in Nosework at various levels. If I missed someone, please let us know. We would love an update with information and pictures to share.
Shiny–(Zula Blue X Stackhouse) ~NACSW Nosework Trialing Level 3
Asher (Bernie X Blue)–AKC Scent work
Porsche (Mesquite X Stackhouse)
Skye (Sage X Blue) AKC Nosework
Michelle was kind enough to fill in a few blanks. So far, she and Asher have competed in the Nose Work or scenting events hosted by four groups. Yes–there are four different options in which Michelle and Asher took part.–there are a few more she has not yet encountered.
- NACSW — National Association of Canine Scent Work
- USCSW –United States Canine Scent Work
- UKC –United Kennel Club UKC Scent Work Event Calendar
- AKC –American Kennel Club AKC Scent Work News
Each club has their way of doing things–so, keep that in mind. Michelle’s weekend AKC trial event had more than 50 dogs competing at various levels. The NACSW event where Julia and Shiny netted a second place she faced a total of 38 competitors. Both gals and their OwyheeStar wonder Weims did outstanding. We are so proud!
Michelle Explains Asher’s Titles
NW1, DDI, AKC TKN, UKC NC, UKC NV, UKC NE
NACSW NW1 is novice level
USCSS DDI is detection dog intermediate which is one level up from novice.
AKC TKN is novice trick dog
UKC Novice Exterior, Vehicle, and Containers
Each club/group has their own set of rules and what it takes to earn a title. For an example in UKC, we have novice titles in exterior, vehicle, and containers and compete at the next level in those 3. We missed our interior, so we are novice level in the interior for UKC. Most of the venues are similar, but AKC has buried hides instead of vehicles. NACSW is credited as the founder of the sport. I understand it is a bit confusing–even people involved in the Nose Work keep spreadsheets to be able to remember their titles and levels.
Politics and Whatnot
Well, maybe you have heard about it or not. There is the dog politic thing. Some venues are steeped in it more than others–AKC possibly would be the worst. (Sorry, but it is the truth.) If you are running your Blue or your Longhair Blue, not everyone is going to give you credit due. There is a strong bias within the Weimaraner Club against the blue coats. Nonetheless, people love them and want them.
Michelle says–“I always get compliments on Asher…many comment on what a nice looking dog he is. We have ran into the definition of a “standard weim” several times in our very short time in the world of competition. At times, people have made some comments that have caught me off guard. Such as, “They are not our kind.” At times, I have wanted to strike up a conversation, but let’s just say—body language speaks volumes. Regardless, I am a girl just wanting to have fun with her dog. I am not trying to play in your confirmation ring.”
It is the truth that if you want to compete, you have to have a tough hide. Anything can happen. Competitors come with bias as well as swagger. Some are more gracious than others. Scenting sports are fun. There is for sure, not the same level of issues faced with competing for a Show Title.
Asher Speaks
~”Woof!” (Sniff, Sniff, too!)
I have this Paw-Awesome report.
Mom and I have been so busy with the smell game. At times it can be confusing because sometimes my mom calls it Nosework and other times its called Scent Work. Got me what the differences are. I just nose’s its all about the bacon. (HA-did you catch my humor?) I love bacon…shhh do not tell mom that I told you this. But ever so often, I see mom eat my dog treats. LOL! She must like bacon too.
Last time, I updated you on our first title with United States Canine Scent Sports (USCSS). Since then we have gained our second title with USCSS called Detection Dog Intermediate. This trial was at a school campground where we found 8 hides and overcame a very tough search in a bunkhouse. The judge told my mom, “Great job in being patient!” I have no idea why the judge would say that –Weim-Zoomies are a normal every day occurrence. Right?
We recently went for the NW2 with the National Association Canine Scent Work (NACSW). We missed 1 hide because we were about two feet from source. So did not gain our title. We learned a lot about that, “No, I am sorry that is not correct!”
Scent Work or Nose Work whatever it may be called is not just about finding the smell, the alert or the bacon. NERD ALERT: It is about a team that works through the problem analyzing the environment and how the conditions of terrain, climate, vegetation and weather play into how the scent molecules are traveling.
REALITY CHECK: Now try and remember all of that when the birds or the bunnies are queued– seriously NOT FAIR, Right? No worries, we just shake it off and learn and grow.
We have since earned our first title in UKC in three of the elements (Containers, Exterior and Vehicles Searches). This last UKC trial we were in shock when we learned we earned a High-In Trial.
This last weekend we tried our luck at our first AKC Trial. The nice thing about AKC and UKC is your YES’s are accumulative and you must pass each element three times to gain a title in that specific element. We learned another trial opens this coming week, so maybe by the end of July we will gain our first titles in AKC elements.
To be continued…now I lay me down to sleep!
Love,
Asher Von Owyheestar,
NW1, DDI, AKC TKN, UKC NC, UKC NV, UKC NE
Breeder Comment
Everyone at OwyheeStar is very impressed, Asher. Thank you for the report and all the hard work. Tomorrow, I will write a bit more about this topic and list what these titles earn mean. I am positive that several readers would like to know more.
Events
Asher
~ AKC Novice Trick Dog (TKN)
You might have seen the Facebook announcement that Asher has another title. He is on a roll, don’t you agree? His previous Nosework and now this Trick Dog title. Congratulations to the both of you–Asher and his human!
Willow
You may well remember that Jan’s Willow also added the AKC Novice Trick Dog (TKN) to the lengthy list of her achievements some time back (click here to check out the original post).
Breeder Comment
For those wanting to get involved, there are options. You might consider beginning with the Canine Good Citizen; however, others have dabbled in Agility, Rally, Nosework, etc. Of course, the competition doesn’t appeal to everyone. Nonetheless, there are events for those who want to see what they can achieve. We are so very proud these Champions–as well as the others of you who have also invested in this type of adventure. Keep up the great work.
ABOUT TRICK DOG
From the 1920’s and 1940’s when trick dogs such as Rin Tin Tin and Lassie won peoples’ hearts, trick dog training has become one of the most exciting new areas in dog training today.
TRICK DOG TITLE INFO:
AKC Trick Dog titles are official AKC titles listed on the dog’s title record.
The processing fee for each title is $20. Multiple titles for the same dog can be sent in together, each one will be processed in succession after each previous title has been added and printed.
Dogs must have an AKC, PAL, or AKC Canine Partners number to earn a title.
All dogs can get a number including purebreds and mixed breeds.
4 TRICK DOG TITLES –
NOVICE TRICK DOG (TKN)
The dog performs 10 skills from the Novice list. (see link to “Application” below for lists of skills). If a dog has a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate or title on record at AKC, it can do 5 Novice tricks (CGC + 5) to earn the Novice title.
INTERMEDIATE TRICK DOG (TKI)
The dog must have the Novice title, plus perform 10 Intermediate tricks.
ADVANCED TRICK DOG (TKA)
The dog must have the Intermediate title, plus perform 5 tricks from the Advanced list.
TRICK DOG PERFORMER (TKP)
I n this title, handlers perform a short routine with at least 10 tricks previously learned.
THERE ARE TWO WAYS YOU CAN EARN AKC TRICK DOG TITLES:
1) Perform the tricks (from the check list in the Title Application) in the presence of an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator. The Title Application will need to accompany the check list for the particular title you are applying for.
2) AKC will recognize Do More With Your Dog!™(DMWYD) titles at Novice, Intermediate and Advanced levels. The Title Application will need to accompany proof of the DMWYD title being earned, such as a copy of the actual title.
****GRANDFATHER NOTICE****
DMWYD Titles Grandfathered Until End of 2017
If you have a DMWYD title that is above Novice, (i.e. Intermediate, Advanced, Expert) until December 31, 2017, you may send proof of the title (copy of DMWYD certificate) and pay only the $20 title fee for the highest level title for which you are applying to earn the equivalent AKC Trick Dog title.
Examples:
If you have a DMWYD Intermediate certificate, send the AKC Intermediate Trick Dog application with the $20 title fee and AKC will issue your AKC Intermediate Trick Dog title.
If you have a DMWYD Advanced Trick Dog title, send the AKC Advanced Trick Dog Application with the $20 title fee and AKC will issue your AKC Advanced Trick Dog title.
If you would like to earn the AKC Trick Dog Performer title, send a copy of your DMWYD Expert Trick Dog or Champion Trick Dog certificate, along with the $20 title fee, the AKC Trick Dog Application for the Performer level, and, YOU MUST INCLUDE A VIDEO.
For more information about the Trick Dog Program check out our Frequently Asked Questions.
Letter
From Asher
~ guess we found our niche
Hey Shela and Cliff, Asher here. It has been awhile but I wanted to update you with a Paw-Awesome report. My days are filled with many adventures from joy rides to the coffee shop, Farmers Markets, and any store that allow dogs. Funny thing about coffee shops is a friendly hello bark gets me treats. Seriously, that is all I have to do to get a treat. Love it! (Psst, if any other Weim’s are reading this—heads up Chick-fil-A does it too.)
Sniff, sniff, sniff…there is a game that my mom and I play it is called Nose Work. She hides treats and I find them. I know right—more treats—love this game! However, my mom tells me that she created a nose detective monster.
As I built my confidence in sniffing it came time for the Odor Recognition Tests (ORT’S). My mom questioned, if she was ready and if she should enter all three or just the one. I told her, “Mom—we got this!”
Paw-Awesome isn’t it?!? My mom and I make such a great team. We passed all three odors birch, anise and clove. She was so happy—I thought, “stop-it mom you’re embarrassing me” but don’t tell her. I was really jumping up and down inside!
And that is how it all began, mom and I trained for the next event our very first trial. She was nervous because it was the first time she has done anything like this. She said, “Okay God calm my butterflies and let Asher do what you created him to do!” She whispered in my little ear, “Okay, handsome—you got this! Let’s go have some fun!”
We had some fun all right. My mom was so excited; I think I even saw tears in her eyes—Gesh, woman! I tell ya! Well, here it is, nine months of preparation of training and confidence building. We received our first title in Detection Dog Class Novice.
Now that is my superstar moment but let me tell ya—the game of Rally-Obedience not so much. My trainer told me, ”My focus has been upgraded from a gnat to a small fly.” I know right, “Are you talking about me?”
Well that is a quick Paw-Awesome report, we have some more trials coming up later in the year and working towards our first competition in Rally-Obedience. A small fly—I’ll show them! Keeping my eye on the prize!!
But first, I am going back to bed!
Love,
Asher Von Owyheestar, DDCN
Dasher
A Dream Come True
We wanted to let you know how well our Dasher is doing. He continues to be all that we could have ever wanted. We just returned from a weekend in Truckee, his first snow experience, and he just loved it.
It got down to 18 degrees so we put a jacket on him and he was off grabbing every stick and pinecone that he could find. He noticed some grass weeds growing out from the snow and decided that he wanted to get to the roots. He buried his head under the snow and looked like an ostrich. He came out of it covered in white and went back for more.
He is one of the smartest pups I have ever had. He has taken to obedience training extremely well. He has all the basics down, including coming to us (off leash) when called. Well most of the time…. Unless he has a pine cone in his mouth then its a 50/50 proposition, he does come, but reluctantly! Shela, I remember you telling me that his mom ( Bernie) has the best temperament. Dasher is so balanced. He cuddles and plays gently until I kick it up a notch and get him going, then he settles right down and chills out. He has the BEST temperament. He and Dobby are best buds, and Dasher is just so beautiful to look at. We get compliments just about every time we go on a walk. He is built like a thoroughbred horse and is super healthy. Needless to say, we are beyond happy and are forever grateful for our Dasher.
Again thank you, Shela & Cliff, for all that you two do!
~ Sincerely — Dave and Audrey.
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Breeder Comment
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