Category Archives: Toys

Spock

Loving the Farm

Fisher's Spock1Spock is doing great. He absolutely loves the farm, he’s a little hesitant around the horses still but I rather him be that way then over jealous. I’ve attached a couple photos. He is so handsome 😎

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Fisher's Spock2

First Dog Park Experience

His first time to the dog park another dog tried to play w him and he ran away so the other dog started chasing him. Poor Spock squealed the whole perimeter of the park before running back to me and literally jumping into my arms. He has since gotten more used to the chaotic dog park but that first visit he was so worried. He is also a professional de-squeaker of toys if u ever need someone to get rid of your squeakers 😉Fisher's Spock3

Breeder Comment

Every Weimaraner has a skill set. The development of the squeaker removal talent is linked closely to how to they see the world. The normal according to Spock is to kill the squeaking critter inside the new toy. (Oops)  Spock is living the life on the farm and loving it. What could be better? Thanks ever so much for the great photos and sharing a porthole into his life with you.

The Dog Park–it is a mixed bag of socialization. Many rely on the dog park, but it can be a precarious adventure. There are reports from other OwyheeStar clients who had their Weims bullied or even attacked at the dog park. This type of thing should never happen, but it is always wise to be on the alert. The first trip to a new location may find the Weimaraner uncomfortable. It is ever so important to socialize them in as many settings as possible. New things can be daunting and unsettling. They have to learn how to adapt to change on every level. Regardless, when introducing a new element, it is more important to be vigilant and to stay very calm.

Wolfie1381

Wolfie bandaged paw

The Weimaraner picks up on your cues. If you are concerned, then they are concerned and wary. This atmosphere can trigger an unwanted event. At the same time, we recommend being aware of the other dogs and their demeanor. If you spot trouble or have a concern about someone and their dog, it is best to avoid them. Not every person who uses the dog park has an appropriate dog for that setting. Their problem can become your nightmare. Despite these risks, the opportunity for off leash frolicking with other people and their pets is invaluable. Just remember Wolfie who met an unfriendly Rottweiler–aggressive might be a better description. The good news is he healed up and continue to visit their dog park–they avoided that person and their dog from there on out. Read more on Wolfie–click here!

 

My computer ate my homework

or the Weimaraner ate the book report.1966199_10203333113431874_354793422_o (1)

It makes perfect sense ….

I knew I should have eaten every morsel--I got full!

I knew I should have eaten every morsel–I got full!

Sometimes it is not the school work that is devoured. Dog beds seem to be shredded about as often as toys.

I can attest to the fact that what hurts the most is they love to target our cherished things–our favorite shoes, the quilt we love, and just about anything that has our scent can become the choice (of the day). When the deed is done, they know guilt. Opportunity knocks, and the Weimaraner opens the door. What can we say? Do not give them opportunity–especially with something you treasure.

Deniability works, right?

I don't see what you are talking about..

I don’t see what you are talking about..

They will go to great lengths to get something they want, or feel they need. The guilt-ridden look can also take the shape of denial–you cannot pin this on me. These incidents often occur after the Weimaraner has their feelings hurt; they are not exclusive to a reactive behavior. They seem to be drawn to getting into a bit of trouble. When they don’t find it in front of them, they can be very creative.

Counter-surfing is an art

countersurfingThey can also climb the fence, leap to the dresser top, and think of ways to get what they want. Unfortunately, some of their exploits are life-threatening. The Weim-parent must be vigilant. They are not a train-in-three-months dog; and then glide along in uneventful bliss. Nevertheless, we love them. Weim-addicts cannot account for their addiction, but they often state nothing else will do.

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Durable Chew Toys for the Weimaraner

Hi Shela and Cliff (and OwyheeStar News readers! Sharyl and Steve in Sisters, OR here – 

We enjoy your daily blogs (the OwyheeStar News), find it a great combination of interesting, useful, and fun postings. Thank you for all your work! Today’s was something I wanted to personally respond to – re: the weim’s love to chew:

Lu (True X Benton 2011) proved your point early on, shredding everything of Shea’s (our now 3 1/2 year old golden retriever) that was soft. We rescued and packed away the soft stuff, and tried numerous toys for Lu….she also the first 18 mos tried her “own version” of toys: ends of rugs, corners of molding, rocks – which she still adores but never swallows – etc. 

I wanted to share that there are two toys that she has had for at least 14 mos, and adores, and after very hard chewing and gnawing, they are still intact, no chunks out even! The first one is shaped like an “S” in hard rubber, called the “Bumi” and we have the green one, the largest. She also swings it around and occasionally tosses it, and plays tug-of-war with Shea.

The second one is even better for self-play, it’s the Kong Genius Mike toy – it’s designed to put treats in if you want, but she just likes the size of it (large) and gnawing on it, and plays endlessly with it. Below is a picture showing her craziness in one of her fave positions.  Lu’s doing great, hard to believe she’ll be 2 soon. Seems to be listening better, but still is a bully with Shea. Runs like the wind on our walks every morning, and is stuck-like-glue to Steve most of the time. Has two levels of energy: 100% off, or 1,000% ON, but she does like her naps in the sun after the runs.

Breeder’s Note: When we receive notes like this one, sometimes we never get the great information posted. For that reason, we wanted to pass this along quickly. There are several good toys, but it is always great to hear of a durable and well-loved Weimaraner option. Thank you Sharyl and Steve for writing us, so we could share this information.

What Does Your Weim Do??????

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You may print or copy items ONLY for your own personal use! This Blog, information, and photos posted herein are copyright protected and remains the sole property of Cliff and Shela Nielsen.  No unauthorized use is permitted.

Dusty has a nickname- “Toy Boy”. Dusty’s toy-box is AKA Cliff’s office. Some might say Cliff has set up an office in Dusty’s toy-box. It is all about perspective. When entering the space regardless of what you call the area, walk carefully. A trip to the emergency room could be painful. A sprain or break via Kong is tough to explain or live-down. Your wallet, dignity, and mobility could all take a serious hit.

Tanzanian Mountain Balls

Tanzanian Mountain Balls

Tonight Dusty showed his ingenuity and disdain for the recent neglect. He got the Tasmanian Mountain Ball–just like the purple one pictured right. He looked right at us and began throwing it for himself. He was on the sofa and he turned around and bounced it on the windowsill and caught it. I guess we can be dealt with…. Later he allowed to roll off the sofa again………..who needs us for fun?

Actually Dusty has been a gem. After having his sleep interrupted all last night he took the event in stride. Dash used to be totally mesmerized by the whelping process, however, Dusty seems more put off by the interruption into his beauty sleep. I understand that even though it is truly wonderful it is tough on your beauty.  OMG the mirror is rather scary right now!

Weims in general tend to make their own fun if none is provided. Sometimes their choice of fun doesn’t set well with humans.  Remember the Weim that dug under the backyard sidewalk and then continued on to break it up in little pieces? (https://owyheestar.wordpress.com/2009/06/13/digging-a-weim-pastime/) Digging, Chewing, and barking are great fun if you have nothing else to do.

Here is a great Email excerpt that came in this week:

Wellie is such a strong swimmer! And seemed to be having SO MUCH FUN! He hadn’t been in much water, or at least not deep enough to where he had to actually swim since he was at your pond before we brought him home — which must have helped because he jumped right in & went all out right away. He went everyday over the long weekend & couldn’t get enough. It’s definitely going be a favorite summer activity! (And leaves him exhausted & makes for a relaxing rest of the day for us all!).

Here is Wellie..

Wellie Swims

Wellie Swims

Wellie Dives

Wellie Dives

And if you noticed Wellie’s folks mentioned swimming tired him out. There were several cool pictures and eventually when time affords we will get them posted to Wellie’s Web Page:

http://owyheestarfeaturedweims.homestead.com/Torrie/Boyle_Wellington.html

Actually Wellie has three pages with updates so you will want to scroll down and check out his other updates. Shela has updates waiting to be posted and published ASAP. Regarding a tired and quiet Wellington, it is a well known fact that a tired Weim is a happy and quiet Weim. Swimming is the ideal exercise for human and their best friend. Building those muscles means better support for the organs and bones. For a young growing Weimaraner there is no better exercise than swimming. Whereas running can potentially lead to joint damage (because young joints and bones are pliable to allow for growth) swimming is fairly impact-free. Diving dogs might be a little more impact than wading in but still a fun activity!

For today, here wishing a water worthy Weimaraner

as well as one that is entertaining!

~ Shela and Cliff

Note: If you are part of the extended OwyheeStar family or on our waiting list, then please feel free to share your questions, comments, pointers, insights, experiences, and valued tips. Please keep in mind that all of our information is based from our experience and is our personal opinion.  Information found within this blog and on our website is not meant to replace that of your personal Veterinary. We are not licensed Veterinarians or licensed Vet Techs. We do not give treatment advice, diagnose illness, or consider ourselves the final authority on Veterinary medicine.