tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15837886203184298652024-03-13T21:39:29.462-07:00The Charming chiSmall Dogs - Big Heart<br><br><br>
Chihuahuas are wonderfully spirited little dogs full of love and energy! Anyone who knows them can tell you how lively their personalities are. I have 5 chihuahuas, 3 of which are puppies. Susu, Ginger, Cori, Fen, & Cinna. I'll be sharing my thoughts here on everything from health issues, to food, to fashion and fun for the small dog. <br><br>I hope you enjoy the blog, leave me a comment and follow along!!<br><br>-- Michelle K.<br><br>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-1998044228259060392012-05-16T06:44:00.000-07:002012-05-16T06:44:26.444-07:00Wordless Wednesday: Chihuahuas are 4 weeks old and in their baby clothes!!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose, Cami, Dusty and Snow: First time in their baby clothes</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose, Cami, Dusty and Snow: First time in their baby clothes
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-73174534853869293892012-05-02T07:32:00.000-07:002012-05-02T07:32:19.334-07:00Wordless Wednesday: Playful Pups<br />
The pups are now 3 weeks old and playing..<br />
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-9839585277453833752012-05-01T09:27:00.000-07:002012-05-01T11:28:01.354-07:00Teaching Your Chihuahua Self Control<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Training out excitement and teaching self control are two of the most important things you can do with your Chihuahua. Right behind a good bite inhibition, calm self control is an important step towards having a great family member in your dog.<br />
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A dog who is calm will actually hear instruction and will have clarity of mind to act appropriately even in challenging situations. Teaching self control and encouraging calmness is easy when you pay attention to your own behavior first.<br />
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Here are few simple every day things anyone can do to help their little dogs have good self control. <i> If your dog can maintain his composure at a high state of excitement with you in your home he is more likely to be able to do this outside of your home and with others. He is practicing a valuable skill.</i><br />
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<li><b>Greet your dogs when they are calm and keep it calm and brief.</b> When I walk into a room or come home from work I do not greet my dogs until they are calm. Once they catch on to this I come home to quiet little dogs who watch me with tails wagging waiting for me to get to them. I come in and set my stuff done, talk to my family, or just piddle for a few minutes. Once everyone is calm, I go to each one and give them a little TLC. </li>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lciuoWSxhws/T6ApqimCsMI/AAAAAAAARYE/B2hryuTgHHI/s1600/529901_10150799505152463_159239972462_11466254_262626987_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lciuoWSxhws/T6ApqimCsMI/AAAAAAAARYE/B2hryuTgHHI/s400/529901_10150799505152463_159239972462_11466254_262626987_n.jpg" width="400" /></a>This is a daily practice in self control for them because they are excited that I am home and they all want my attention. Having learned that they will not get me until they are calm demands that they make the effort to remain calm.<br />
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<li><b>Give treats when your dog is calm and has all four paws on the floor. </b>When I give treats out I expect everyone to remain calm. And I say the name of the dog the treat I have is for. (helps with swiping) I don't mind if they jump up to get their treat as long as they not out of control or all over me. </li>
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I like to give treats in the order of who is the most patient or who used the most effort. So typically the most calm get the first treat but if Cori who usually acts a complete fool actually manages to get himself together he gets a treat right away before he has lost it. <br />
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Also, don't forget to reward calmness if one doesn't get up for a treat! Sometimes one of mine will be in their bed and will stay there watching the others get treats. I always take them one too. They get the last one but they are not left out because I like to reward calmness and patience at my house. You will always get more of whatever you reward!! <br />
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If you are just starting out with this one a good place to begin is when they all over place just take one hand and set them a little away from you with the feet on the floor and give the treat. Be consistent and will start to learn that this is what is required to get that treat.<br />
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Again we have a regular practice of using self control during a high excitement event. And trust me, getting out the treat bag with 5 chihuahuas in the house is an excitement overload! <br />
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<li><b>Randomly notice your Chihuahua and give love when they are being good and calm.</b> Anyone who has a Chihuahua can tell you what little affection hungry attention hounds these dogs are. You can use this to your advantage however and give affection whenever you see your Chihuahua sleeping or just chilling out. It's just a nice way to reward your dog for behaving.</li>
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If I walk through the room and see one sleeping in their bed I go give them a little belly scratch or stroke their fur and tell them I love them. Keep it brief because you don't want to disturb their quiet time. <div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qyPaXy5Sp0c/T6AqS25cjMI/AAAAAAAARYU/tTxoHSO_Uac/s1600/Susu_by_Squirrelflight_77.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qyPaXy5Sp0c/T6AqS25cjMI/AAAAAAAARYU/tTxoHSO_Uac/s400/Susu_by_Squirrelflight_77.jpg" width="400" /></a>You just want to take time to notice when your little dog is being calm and give attention then. If you do this your Chihuahuas need for affection will be getting filled without him having to be pushy and he won't feel like he has to pull out all the stops to get your attention.</div>
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Self Control is easier for some dogs than it is for others but it will come to them if you are consistent and patient. Age and temperament play a large part in gaining self control. </div>
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These really are simple little things to incorporate into your day and your dog will be learning to control his impulses in an easy pain free way. I like that these are all very positive experiences for my dogs. You do these things whether you have an older or a puppy and regardless of your dogs temperament. </div>
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Cinna from time she was a pup would stay in the back with the grown ups and wait patiently for a treat. Fen who is high energy and naturally pushy was all over me and Cori just seemed to lose his mind entirely! But this system works for all of them, they just each progress along at their own pace.
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</div>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-28347115888865928962012-04-30T08:22:00.000-07:002012-04-30T16:08:09.948-07:00Monday Mischief: Food before Fashion Please!!Well this week's winner of the Monday Mischief Award goes to ME!! lol We headed off with all the babies for a quick little weekend out of town and umm... I managed to forget to pack any food for the dogs. But in my defense I was <i>very</i> distracted by choosing their wardrobe for the weekend! So in the end we loaded up and hit the road with a bunch of Chihuahuas, 2 outfits for each of them and not a kibble in sight! Not to worry though.. they all survived on Chicken, salmon and rice thanks to Dad!<br />
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<b>Note to self: Food before Fashion, Mom!! Don't forget the Food! lol </b><br />
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-85969957483733610352012-04-27T19:59:00.000-07:002012-05-15T19:58:11.223-07:00Small Dog Syndrome: Fact or Fiction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If your small dog is a handful, eventually some smarty pants is going to tell you he has 'small dog syndrome'. Basically because he is small he's gonna get his own special label. The reality is people like labels and stereotypes. It makes them feel like they know something important about things they really know nothing about. <br />
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So the Chihuahua and other small breeds with 'behavior issues' now have 'Small Dog Syndrome' or SDS. But wait! It gets better! Because it is YOU that has caused this! Yep! That's right! You and all you're spoiling! How dare you let your Chihuahua sleep with you and sit in your lap and I bet you even carry them at times!! 'Gasp' <br />
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It's no wonder with all the bad Chihuahua parents out there that the breed has developed such a reputation as to need it's own 'syndrome'! No need to fret though, because there is a cure!!<br />
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All you have to do is just treat your Chihuahua exactly the same as you would treat a Doberman.
<img alt="Smiley" src="http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-confused002.gif" /> Now dont you just love it when people come up with stupid solutions to made up problems?? Exactly.<br />
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So now let's get down to the real nitty gritty of todays topic.. <b>The Myth of Small Dog Syndrome and how Stereotyping is Shortchanging your Dog!</b><br />
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Basically Small Dog Syndrome is a by product of the Dominance Theory. Supposedly your little dog is behaving badly because he believes he is the leader of your pack and the owner of your home. So now we have to contend with this syndrome based on a flawed theory. How could we not fail?<br />
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The truth is dogs are not power hungry social climbers. That's just humans once again applying human thought processes to animal behavior. Dogs are however very opportunistic with a good historical background in scavenging. And they will simply do what works.<br />
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But my real beef with SDS is that is just doesn't make sense. There's no real logic in it. Let's take a look at the symptoms of SDS.<br />
<ul>
<li>Barking when approached.</li>
<li>Barking at strangers</li>
<li>Biting and snapping</li>
<li>Destructive Behavior</li>
<li>Growling</li>
<li>Possessive over food, toys, etc</li>
<li>Stubborn</li>
<li>Paws at or Jumps on people</li>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Now I cant be the only one who has know a large breed dog to do these things as well. So why </span><i style="text-align: justify;">Small</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> Dog Syndrome?? We clearly have pushy behaviors, resource guarding, and either aggression or nervousness or both. These aspects of dog behavior do not solely belong to 'small' dogs. </span></div>
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And let's take a look at the '<i>cure</i>'..<br />
<ul>
<li>Don't let your dog sleep with you.</li>
<li>Don't let your dog on your furniture.</li>
<li>Make your dog work for everything from food to affection</li>
<li>Make sure your dog obeys your every command</li>
<li>Be the Alpha!!!! </li>
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I've even seen one site that proudly displays a picture of a beautiful Chihuahua looking very confident and happy and tells you how this is really a bad thing because he is too dominant and then they show a dog looking at the ground slinking by with his tail between his legs and it says this is your goal. Really?? </div>
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These <i>solutions</i> have about as much relevance to the problem behaviors as running the vacuum when your dishes are backed up. It's just another way to tell dog parents that they need to dominate their dog. If you dont keep your dog in its place it will take over and attack you. And if you were living with wolves that may be the truth. But Fluffy is not a wolf. She is not descended from wolves. She is a dog and dogs have their own unique phychology, body language, and social system. And it is not a take over agenda. <br />
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<b>They simply want what they like and they do what works for them to get it. That's all. </b>No plans for world domination or anything. The dog that whines while you eat has learned that whining will convince you to give it some of the food. Small dogs can be pushy and jump in your lap unwanted and big dogs can be pushy and knock you over. But it's not because dogs are naturally searching for the upper hand. They just want the chicken, people! <br />
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Now obviously dogs can ALL develop poor behaviors regardless of size. And this is typically just a lack of boundaries and self control. Self control is a skill and having boundaries is how it is learned. And if you really want to fix your Chihuahuas behavior problems, forget about being the alpha and going through doors first, etc and<b> actually evaluate each problem, it's cause and come up with a valid solution and then be consistent.</b><br />
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I find most mild issues can show great improvement within 2 -3 days of some consistent boundaries and they get lots of love and still all pile in my lap and in the bed. Work on training out excitement and only acknowledge, reward, and be affectionate to your little one when they are calm. This is a wonderful way to continually teach and reinforce self control in your Chihuahua. <br />
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Decide what you are fine with and when the lines are crossed and consistently hold the line. When one of my Chis wants in my lap they jump up and put their paws on me or the chair. This is fine. If they just stood there I probably wouldn't see them. When one just suddenly jumps in my lap without warning, I simply push them back out. Dogs are smart. It really only takes a day or so before they figure out the approach that works. If I get slack, they get pushy. If I'm consistent they are patient. It's just they way it works.<br />
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Keep little treats handy. When you catch your dog behaving, just give a treat. When your dog is being pushy or obnoxious don't give treats. And don't treat for everything. Treats should be like winning the lottery because dogs LOVE the lottery and they will almost always play! So if you call your little Chihuahua and they get a treat some of the time when they get to you they will have a better recall because they know there is a chance that the chicken cookies are waiting! Sometimes they win the big prize, sometimes they win a 'good baby' and sometimes they find they just ran across the house for nothing. That's the beauty of the lottery and they can't resist it! So keep a little mystery and surprise in your dogs day.<br />
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You can have great little dogs and you don't have to rule with an iron hand either!! Give love, boundaries, incentives, and be consistent. And that works whether your dog is 5lbs or 50lbs too.<br />
<img alt="Smiley" src="http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-happy076.gif" /></div>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-7576057894297678682012-04-25T05:02:00.000-07:002012-04-25T06:24:11.243-07:00Wordless Wednesday: Chihuahua puppy pics and a Bonus Video!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;">I just couldn't seem to decide which pictures to post today so you are getting the whole lot! You're getting 16 cute Chihuahua pictures and a bonus 3 minute video of the puppies toddling around. Hope you can stand the cuteness of it all. Have a Happy Wednesday!!! I'm off to cuddle somebody!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cl9arT6d9r0/T5eWAxGjJwI/AAAAAAAARLk/BGxupe-T6jk/s1600/DSC00232-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cl9arT6d9r0/T5eWAxGjJwI/AAAAAAAARLk/BGxupe-T6jk/s400/DSC00232-001.JPG" width="373" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow (white), Rose (cream), Cami (tricolor) & Dusty (tan)<br />
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I just love how cute they are snuggled up and how sweet that little<br />
Rose is already loving on her brother Cami!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f3hHtRLp4wo/T5eWCTopLwI/AAAAAAAARLs/meaytK5nYzk/s1600/DSC00233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f3hHtRLp4wo/T5eWCTopLwI/AAAAAAAARLs/meaytK5nYzk/s400/DSC00233.JPG" width="366" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gG_wxT4hl2A/T5eWEG_0vcI/AAAAAAAARL0/kp9SbjA86cs/s1600/DSC00238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gG_wxT4hl2A/T5eWEG_0vcI/AAAAAAAARL0/kp9SbjA86cs/s400/DSC00238.JPG" width="367" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cori with Dusty and Snow.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJMLJNARC2Y/T5eWGqZDbVI/AAAAAAAARL8/Sz0VRBP6XWw/s1600/DSC00239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJMLJNARC2Y/T5eWGqZDbVI/AAAAAAAARL8/Sz0VRBP6XWw/s400/DSC00239.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinna.. possibly also wondering how we ended up with a tricolor from a red sable and a cream!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6fsCjLJ5MqM/T5eWMkj9J7I/AAAAAAAARMM/_qz3xs5PcfM/s1600/DSC00241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6fsCjLJ5MqM/T5eWMkj9J7I/AAAAAAAARMM/_qz3xs5PcfM/s400/DSC00241.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose getting a good looksie over from Mom, Cori and Cinna. She may be looking for an escape route!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A3QhJOVGjBY/T5eWKPHKR9I/AAAAAAAARME/KQfj3SKFRUY/s1600/DSC00240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A3QhJOVGjBY/T5eWKPHKR9I/AAAAAAAARME/KQfj3SKFRUY/s400/DSC00240.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A quick little nursing session. Snow is the 'fussybutt' of the litter so Ginger settles him more often .</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hsVyK6ITmpM/T5eWODOCa6I/AAAAAAAARMU/jn3fH7h90sw/s1600/DSC00242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hsVyK6ITmpM/T5eWODOCa6I/AAAAAAAARMU/jn3fH7h90sw/s400/DSC00242.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dusty and Snow.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zuUxGLxbRMo/T5eWQXJip7I/AAAAAAAARMc/4odpK9JxMzk/s1600/DSC00243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zuUxGLxbRMo/T5eWQXJip7I/AAAAAAAARMc/4odpK9JxMzk/s400/DSC00243.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cori is checking out Snow and Dusty again. Cori has a particular fascination with the puppies and will cry for them to brought out so he can smell and slobber on them!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9aHhZiLiepw/T5eWSo2sh2I/AAAAAAAARMk/FfEUTS8RhC8/s1600/DSC00246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9aHhZiLiepw/T5eWSo2sh2I/AAAAAAAARMk/FfEUTS8RhC8/s400/DSC00246.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cori checking out that adorable puppy face!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FQM0STvcB1E/T5eWU2_CFuI/AAAAAAAARMs/QhvMqhH4bOE/s1600/DSC00248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FQM0STvcB1E/T5eWU2_CFuI/AAAAAAAARMs/QhvMqhH4bOE/s400/DSC00248.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow and Dusty.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gc2dIIIvSGo/T5eWWH7y1gI/AAAAAAAARM0/r60s5xeXNlo/s1600/DSC00252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gc2dIIIvSGo/T5eWWH7y1gI/AAAAAAAARM0/r60s5xeXNlo/s400/DSC00252.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow is up and walking..he just needs to learn to aim now!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-okPA1yTaAo8/T5eWXVVXcbI/AAAAAAAARM8/OhD6FFx0N7E/s1600/DSC00257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-okPA1yTaAo8/T5eWXVVXcbI/AAAAAAAARM8/OhD6FFx0N7E/s400/DSC00257.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He also wags his tail when he walks! He just love to be up and moving.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c6WXj4Eby88/T5eWZDTJQRI/AAAAAAAARNE/CSA_1LWhDGE/s1600/DSC00260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c6WXj4Eby88/T5eWZDTJQRI/AAAAAAAARNE/CSA_1LWhDGE/s400/DSC00260.JPG" width="392" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ginger making sure everyone is still a happy camper!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9eQC7g0e6Uw/T5eWcJqUPCI/AAAAAAAARNM/kqj_yfkJygg/s1600/DSC00261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9eQC7g0e6Uw/T5eWcJqUPCI/AAAAAAAARNM/kqj_yfkJygg/s400/DSC00261.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Cami is making some tracks toward Snow.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7cgXuGZZhgQ/T5eWduyTwVI/AAAAAAAARNU/bcfjZHDaOII/s1600/DSC00262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7cgXuGZZhgQ/T5eWduyTwVI/AAAAAAAARNU/bcfjZHDaOII/s400/DSC00262.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just put one foot in front of the other and you are on your way little boy!</td></tr>
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3 minute video of puppies walking and Doggies checking out the puppers! And for those wondering where Susu (Dad) and Fen are..... Well they weren't too interested in puppies. It was their nap time. </div>
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-36223479441579652062012-04-24T21:04:00.000-07:002012-04-25T06:50:40.497-07:00How to Measure Your Dog for a Perfect Fit<br />
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In Part 1 of my Dog Fashion series, <a href="http://charmingchi.blogspot.com/2012/04/yes-you-can-have-your-chihuahua-wearing.html" target="_blank">Yes, You Can Have Your Chihuahua Wearing Clothes! And Here's How!</a> , I went over the basics of how to get your Chihuahua feeling nice and comfy about wearing clothes. <br />
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Now we are ready to dive in a little deeper and start looking at developing your dogs style, where to shop, and how to care for those frilly (or manly) fashions once you have them! <br />
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But let's not forget one of the most important steps to successfully having a fashionable Chihuahua! Properly getting your dog's measurements!<br />
Special thanks to Joannie at <a href="http://stores.ebay.com/Especially-Fur-You-Pet-Boutique" target="_blank">Especially Fur You</a> for allowing me to post her instructions for measuring your dog here at The Charming Chi. It is by far the most thorough set of instructions I have seen and I appreciate her generosity in allowing me to share it with you.<br />
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">-- Michelle of The Charming Chi</span></div>
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How to Measure Your Dog </h1>
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for a Perfect Fit</h1>
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<tr><td><strong>With the wide variety of apparel and accessories available for pets, choosing the right size can be daunting.</strong> And proper fit is especially important for dogs. Wearing anything on their bodies is an alien concept to them, and they will not be comfortable with the experience if they feel constricted or their movement is hindered. Improper fit can even be dangerous -- too tight can impair blood circulation or interfere with natural movement and breathing, and garments that are too loose can create safety hazards by tangling in your dog's legs or falling down over their eyes.<em> <strong>Beside that -- just like us, our pets simply look better in properly fitted clothes!</strong></em><br />
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<strong>And just like us, individual dogs vary in size and physique. </strong>Even within individual breeds, there is a lot of variation in size, so choosing your size based on a list of breeds is not a very accurate method, either, so such lists should only be taken as a <em>suggestion</em>, not a true guideline. Size ranges such as 'small, medium and large' can also be deceptive, as everyone's perception of generalized sizes is a bit different. One person's concept of a medium sized dog is quite often another person's concept of a small dog. <strong><em>The only truly accurate way to choose the right sized garments for your dog is to use your dog's actual measurements.</em></strong> Just like in human clothing sizing, there are <strong><em>certain key measurements for each type of dog garment</em>.</strong><br />
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<strong>Manufacturers will usually list <em>at least one</em> measurement as a guideline for their sizes, but the best fitting clothing will be based on <em>more than one</em> measurement. </strong>Knowing what these measurements are, and where they are found on your dog's body is the first step toward finding your dog's ideal fit.<br />
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<strong>The Measurements:</strong></div>
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<em>You may find some of the terminology unique to canine anatomy unfamiliar.</em></div>
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<em>This diagram and the following explanation should help clarify:</em></div>
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The three basic measurements of a dog's body</div>
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<strong>are <em>Topline, Girth</em> (chest) and <em>Neck</em></strong></div>
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<em>These are the measurements you will need for most basic garments</em></div>
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<em>such as coats and jackets, as well as for collars and neckwear.</em></div>
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<strong>The Topline</strong> is the length of your dog's back, measured along the top of the spine from the <em>withers</em> (point A) - the high part of the back between the shoulders, where the neck joins the body, to the base of the tail (point B) where the tail joins the body.<br />
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<strong>The Girth</strong> (or Chest) measurement is taken all the way around the biggest part of your dog's ribcage, generally just behind the <em>withers</em> (point C) down and around just behind the front legs (point D) and back up the other side to point C.<br />
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<strong>The Neck</strong> is measured at the place where your dog's collar would naturally rest* - from about the top of the chest (point E) to just above the<em> withers</em> (point F) - this measurement is also taken all the way around.<br />
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*<strong><em>note:</em></strong><em> for Sighthounds such as the Greyhound and some other long necked breeds, the collar is worn much higher, actually at the top of the neck below the head, but in measuring for coats and similar garments, the neck measurement for these dogs is taken lower than the collar, about midway between collar level and withers - approximately the same level as line E-F in the above diagram. For dogs with short thick necks, such as Pugs, and dogs with a very full coat in the neck/chest area like Pomeranians, determining the neck measurement can be a bit tricky. For most apparel, and neckwear accessories like bandannas on this type of dog, you may want to use a neck measurement taken a bit lower than collar level (closer to the withers) for a more flattering fit.</em><br />
<strong><em><br /></em></strong><br />
<strong><em>...Incidentally</em></strong> (in case you were wondering) -- the standard measurement of a dog's <strong>Height</strong> is from the <em>withers</em> (point A) to the floor.<br />
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<strong>Other Measurements You May Need for Specialty Garments</strong></div>
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<em>Follow manufacturers directions carefully, they usually give detailed descriptions</em></div>
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<em>of which measurements are needed. Some (but not all) follow:</em></div>
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<strong>The Head</strong> measurement is taken from just in front of the ears (point G), around under the jaw (point H) and back up. This measurement is needed for some kinds of headgear, and especially for Snoods and hoods.<br />
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<strong>The Back of the Neck**</strong> is measured for<strong> Snoods</strong> from just above the ears (point G) to the neck at standard collar level (point F)<br />
<strong><em>** note: For Hoods, Snuggy Snoods, and some turtleneck-type garments,</em></strong> the <strong>Back of the Neck</strong> is measured from just above the ears (point G) to the withers (point A)<br />
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<strong>The Under Chest</strong> measurement - from just above the chest at standard collar level (point E) down under the dog, between the front legs to just behind the last rib (point L) is sometimes used for garments with chest warmers or belly protectors.<br />
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<strong>The Waist</strong> <em>(also sometimes called girth -- but <strong>not</strong> to be confused with the <strong>chest girth</strong>)</em> is measured around the dog just behind the last rib (point L) up around the body (point M) - measured all the way around. This measurement is used for some "shorty" garments, and for specialty items like pants and shorts.<br />
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<strong><em>And for the boys</em> --- the Belly Girth***</strong> used for <strong>Belly Band</strong> sizing is measured around the thin point of the body, just in front of the dog's hind legs (point J) positioned so it will wrap over his 'wee-wee' (point K) This measurement should be taken a bit more snugly than the others -- to ensure the Belly Band will stay in place.<br />
<strong>*** <em>note: the Belly Girth measurement</em></strong> is also used by some manufacturers for sizing sanitary pants for the girls, too.<br />
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<strong>How to Take the Measurements:</strong></div>
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<em>It helps to have everything you need ready before you start:</em></div>
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<strong>1) A flexible measuring tool.</strong> A seamstress' or tailor's type tape measure is best, but if you don't have one you can use a ribbon or a piece of string and a yardstick or ruler -- mark the measurement on the ribbon, and then use the yardstick or ruler to measure it.<br />
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<strong>2) A flat surface for the dog to stand on.</strong> For the little ones, a tabletop can save your back!<br />
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<strong>3) A piece of paper and something to write with.</strong> Prevents the necessity of re-measuring when you forget the numbers.<br />
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<strong>4) A human assistant</strong> -- especially helpful if your dog is a squirmer, or to keep your little one from jumping off the tabletop while you write down the measurements.<br />
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<strong>5) The dog.</strong> -- You didn't think we would forget this one, would you??<br />
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<strong>Now you are ready to measure.</strong> Have the dog stand nice and straight <em>(think "show dog")</em> with all four legs spaced normally under the body and head and tail up. Then determine the corresponding points on your dog to the points on the diagram above.<br />
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<strong>Take each measurement a bit loosely,</strong> so there will be room for your dog to move and breathe, <em>but not too loose</em>. (the measurement for <strong>Belly Bands</strong> is the exception -- it <em>needs to be a bit snug</em>) <em>Do not</em> add extra for the overlap and closures of the garments, that is taken into consideration by the manufacturers. <strong><em>You need the actual body measurements of the dog, not the dimensions of the finished garments.</em></strong><em></em><br />
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<strong>Write down each measurement</strong>, and then measure a second time just to be sure. Most dog apparel is not returnable, in order to prevent the possibility of skin diseases or parasites being transmitted to other pets.<em>It is better to measure twice than be sorry!</em><br />
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<strong><em>When you are all done, be sure to give your dog an extra treat for being such a good model!</em></strong><br />
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<strong>How to Use the Measurements to Determine Size</strong></div>
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<em>So now you have these numbers -- how do you make sense of the sizes??</em></div>
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<strong>This is where things vary a bit</strong> according to designer, manufacturer and type of apparel. A general rule of thumb is to choose a size based on the measurement corresponding with the most "fitted" part of the garment. As I stated above, most manufacturers will include at least one measurement with their size, and in many cases, a better fit can be obtained using more than just one measurement, and for some styles, this is necessary.<br />
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<strong>If any of the measurements are 'between' two sizes, choose the larger size</strong>. If your measurements are toward the upper end of the range given for a particular size, you may also want to choose the larger size, as you may also wish to do for heavily coated dogs to accommodate all that fur.<br />
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<strong><em>Unless specifically stated otherwise</em></strong>, for all apparel <em>except collars****</em>, the measurements you will use are the actual body measurements of the dog. The designer or manufacturer should take into account the extra inches needed for overlaps and closures, and cut and sew the garments accordingly.<br />
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<strong>****<em> note: For Collar Sizes</em></strong> -- the general rule is to take the dog's actual neck measurement and add two inches to get your collar size. This also may vary according to manufacturer and type of collar - so be sure to read descriptions carefully. A properly fitting collar should allow you to slip two fingers easily underneath, between the collar and the dog's neck. Even after he or she is full gown, be sure to check the fit of your dog's collar periodically, as changes in weight, and even the growth of a heavier winter coat can affect the fit. Leather and some other collar materials can stretch or shrink over time, especially if they get wet. A properly fitted collar is imperative, as a too-tight collar can cause serious injury, and a too-loose collar can easily slip off over your dog's head.<br />
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<strong><em>If you follow all of these guidelines for measuring and choosing the proper sizes, you should be able to decipher the sometimes confusing or even conflicting information found on different manufacturers' and designers' dog apparel. You should be able to make the best possible choices for a comfortable and flatterring fit, and soon you will have the Best-Dressed Best Friend on the block!</em></strong></div>
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<center><b>Information Provided By</b></center><br />
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<tr><td><img src="http://images.hypermart.net/sites/common/images/library/bullet1.gif" /></td><td><a href="http://stores.ebay.com/Especially-Fur-You-Pet-Boutique" target="_blank">Especially Fur You Pet Boutique</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td>Especially Fur You<br />
160 Lawr.-Penn. Rd.<br />
Suite 16 #153<br />
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648<br />
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eBay seller id: dollydoggy</td></tr>
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<center>Email: <a href="mailto:dolly@adifrentdrumr.com" target="_blank">dolly@adifrentdrumr.com</a></center>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-26454303654645481772012-04-21T17:00:00.000-07:002012-04-21T17:06:28.884-07:00Little Chihuahua Puppies are 2 weeks old now!Here are some pictures of our healthy fat little chi-babies!! They all have their little eyes open here except for Dusty who has one eye open today. Little Rose is getting on her feet and walking a bit. They are all cute and pudgy and just adorable of course. <br />
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Ginger is also doing just wonderfully and is such a good puppy mommy. We could not have asked for a smoother time with this litter.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ginger with her pups. So cute how you can see little Snow nursing. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how big they are compared to a spoon because I do not have a soda can! haha</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just snuggling!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Cam although his name could still change. He will be staying with us. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angelica Rose. Such a beautiful little cream girl.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Snow with his eyes open now.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dusty with little eyes shut tight still!</td></tr>
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-13691256611694213632012-04-18T09:30:00.000-07:002012-04-18T12:27:14.007-07:00Wordless Wednesday: 1 week old Chihuahua PuppiesThe puppies were one week old last Thursday night and I took these on Friday morning.. Enjoy. :-)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ginger with all 4 pups nursing</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Angelica Rose is the cream girl in the middle. Cocoa is the tricolor boy and Dusty is the lovely tan and black in front. Big boys and small delicate girl</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is snow.. he really just wanted to crawl back to his Mama so this is his only picture for this week.. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ginger making sure all of her little Chihuahua puppies are ok with my picture taking!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture is very special to me and I've decided to keep these two little darlings. Yes, Cocoa and Angelica Rose are staying with me. </td></tr>
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Just a note on the size difference in the puppies so no one will worry.. Ginger is a cobbly build chi and is about 8 lbs while the father, Susu is a fine boned chi weighing in at 4.5 lbs. The 3 boys in this litter are cobble chis like their mother and the girl is a fine boned chi like her father. They are all healthy and gaining weight right on schedule. They simply have different bone/body structures and that is whey Rose is so much smaller than the boys.Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-74663558902066717652012-04-13T15:42:00.002-07:002012-04-13T15:42:12.167-07:00Yes, You Can Have Your Chihuahua Wearing Clothes! And Here's How!One comment I hear over and over from other Small Dog Parents is how much they wish they could get their little ones to wear clothes! Well, you can! <br />
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It really isn't much different than getting your Chihuahua accustomed to collar or a leash and harness. A little patience and a lot of attention will go a long way in helping your dog feel comfortable and happy wearing clothes. So here are the basics of how I have gotten all 5 of my Chihuahuas to be regular Fashion Dogs! This is a 2 part series so there will more to come!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinna & Cori: 6 week old Chihuahuas</td></tr>
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<b>If Possible, Start Young. </b> If you have a puppy now is the time to start them with clothes. I started mine with clothes as soon as they were up and walking at 3 weeks of age. If you are getting your puppy at 12 weeks old that's a great time to start too. The younger you start them wearing clothes the better because young Chihuahuas will simply adapt easier to whatever life hands them. It's a gift of youth. But the principles here are the same for an older Chi too. It may just take a little more coaxing and a few extra treats is all. <br />
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<b>Start Your Chihuahua Wearing Clothes for Small Amounts of Time.</b> At first it's better not to have your Chihuahua wear their clothes for too long. You want them to get used to them gradually. It is better to start with 30 minutes to an hour of clothes wearing at first rather than a whole day. If your Chihuahua is happy in his clothes than fine but for those who aren't as sure of them you will want to keep the times short in the beginning. It's important to remember that your Chihuahua will still enjoy lots of time not wearing clothes!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fen</td></tr>
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<b>Be Sure Your Chihuahua's Clothes are Comfortable and Fit Well. </b>No one likes to wear clothes that are itchy, scratchy, or that just do not fit well and your Chihuahua is no exception. Clothes should not be so big that they get in the way of your dogs play and normal activities nor should they be too tight around the chest or front legs. Putting clothes that do not fit well on your Chihuahua is a good way to make him decide that clothes are a bad idea. You will want to be sure that tags are not an issue and avoid anything too frilly or bulky until your Chihuahua is already used to clothes. First clothes should be little shirts and simple dresses. Think comfort.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinna in her cute little Tutu Dress</td></tr>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">Make it Positive with Treats and Attention. </b><b> </b>One of the best ways to ensure success with training your Chihuahua to wear clothes is to offer treats and just fuss over them when dressed. I like to dress my Chi's up for fun things like outings and walks. This builds a positive association with their clothes for your dog. Even mine who do not care for clothes as much are still very cooperative because they know that getting dressed means something fun is coming around the corner for them. This 'fun' can be an outing, a walk, some playtime, treats or anything your dog enjoys. Just be sure to always have a fun activity or a tasty treat ready for your Chi once dressed. </div>
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Supervise Your Chihuahua to Redirect Chewing and Biting on Fashions. </b> This can be a common problem especially when starting puppies with clothing. I find it best to get your dog dressed when you have time to spend with them. This way you can be making this a fun attention filled time for your Chihuahua AND you are available to redirect their chewing on their clothes and keep them distracted so that they just forget about them altogether since they are having so much fun with you!<br />
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<b>Two little quick tricks for when first getting started with an Uncooperative Chi: </b></div>
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<li>On a chilly day or you can adjust the thermostat by a degree or two, toss a little shirt in the dryer for a few minutes and then put that on your chi. Chihuahuas like to be warm and if they a little too cold that warm from the dryer shirt will be a welcome sight. </li>
<li>If you have a little one who is especially uncooperative at first try this for getting that shirt on! Hold a treat in one hand and your dogs shirt in the other. Hold the treat to your dog through the neck hole of the shirt. As the dog comes towards the treat, hold onto the treat a bit and slip the shirt over their head as they get the treat. You can also give a treat on the floor for each leg as it is lifted and put in their shirt too. </li>
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Following these simple principles you should have your little Chihuahua all decked out in no time! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fen looking very handsome as usual!<br /></td></tr>
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Stay tuned for part II where we will look at determining your Chihuahua's individual style, shopping tips, accessories and more!</div>
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<br /></div>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-79693692273693060522012-04-09T08:10:00.000-07:002012-04-11T12:14:35.944-07:00Four Healthy Puppies born on Thursday evening..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ginger's puppies were born Thursday night from 9:30pm - 12:30am. Everyone is doing fabulously well and we had a perfectly smooth delivery. </div>
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(and these guys and gal are too young for mischief but I'm sure they are dreaming about all the fun things they will do one day!)</div>
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The first 2 pictures were taken the on Friday morning.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1 day old Chihuahua puppies</td></tr>
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These pictures were taken on Easter Sunday.</div>
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Everyone is gaining weight well and Ginger is doing great. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ginger sleeping with her pups at 2 days of age.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2gOCPDCx70A/T4L2QrnQebI/AAAAAAAAQzM/30Ka70ogpR8/s1600/DSC00189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="327" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2gOCPDCx70A/T4L2QrnQebI/AAAAAAAAQzM/30Ka70ogpR8/s400/DSC00189.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dusty</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angelica Rose</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G47vtiKcXy8/T4L2Rt2GueI/AAAAAAAAQzc/Qw7Qku2JaTA/s1600/DSC00193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G47vtiKcXy8/T4L2Rt2GueI/AAAAAAAAQzc/Qw7Qku2JaTA/s400/DSC00193.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angelica Rose</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xmzy_9RyFAo/T4L2SNq4kBI/AAAAAAAAQzk/_ynLq4XN9Mo/s1600/DSC00196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="460" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xmzy_9RyFAo/T4L2SNq4kBI/AAAAAAAAQzk/_ynLq4XN9Mo/s640/DSC00196.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All four pups together. All are healthy and we feel very blessed that everything went as smoothly as possible. All pups have gained weight since birth and Ginger is eating well and happy.</td></tr>
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-2597084984167534402012-03-28T06:28:00.000-07:002012-03-28T06:28:10.027-07:00Wordless Wednesday: Peek a Boo Susu!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-14716863360776504272012-03-26T09:43:00.000-07:002012-03-26T22:04:53.082-07:00Monday Mischief: Buns in the Oven<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7CVIh3uZZKE/T3FKX06oGXI/AAAAAAAAP4Y/SPNzFtvS6kY/s1600/DSC09812-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7CVIh3uZZKE/T3FKX06oGXI/AAAAAAAAP4Y/SPNzFtvS6kY/s640/DSC09812-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Yep. Ginger went into heat and got pregnant a week and half before her spay appointment so I suppose these little <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1583788620318429865#editor/target=post;postID=868820655878149982" target="_blank">chihuahua puppies</a> are just meant to be.<br />
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We are expecting this litter to be born anytime now and will show them off as soon as they arrive! Some will have homes already and some will be in need of homes.<br />
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*Special thanks to Susan at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BlueRidgeCrafter">http://www.etsy.com/shop/BlueRidgeCrafter</a> for Gingers ultra cute Maternity Wear!!<br />
<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-76482830700197147952012-03-21T12:35:00.000-07:002012-03-21T13:37:25.314-07:00Wordless Wednesday: Fen the Chewer..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5QM4hIh6X0/T2o62MfTzUI/AAAAAAAAO2Y/jx5nvvzl5uk/s1600/DSC09727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5QM4hIh6X0/T2o62MfTzUI/AAAAAAAAO2Y/jx5nvvzl5uk/s640/DSC09727.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Have I mentioned lately that I now have THREE teething puppies in the house??! </div>
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<img alt="Scared" src="http://www.myemoticons.com/emoticons/images/msn/moods/scared.gif" /></div>
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And yes, we are very afraid....</div>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-33180108593873376612012-03-19T20:21:00.000-07:002012-03-21T13:38:19.819-07:00Monday Mischief: The Little PrincessLittle Cinna has always been a little spitfire of a Chi. She was the first to growl even before she took her first steps. And any boy who gets an idea of chewing on her skirt is gonna get it! <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HfynBD-JqKw/T2bDdpFFbdI/AAAAAAAAO2E/jEmZv4S-C8E/s1600/DSC07912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HfynBD-JqKw/T2bDdpFFbdI/AAAAAAAAO2E/jEmZv4S-C8E/s400/DSC07912.JPG" width="327" /></a></div>
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However she is such a beautiful little girl and well she's a girl so I think she should be my little princess girl. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3orEUPtbE5c/T2f119zDSGI/AAAAAAAAO2M/UMLPkngGuec/s1600/DSC09552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3orEUPtbE5c/T2f119zDSGI/AAAAAAAAO2M/UMLPkngGuec/s400/DSC09552.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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We seem to be having some difficulty with the basic princess rules though.. She seems to find new ways to get dirty every day!! I don't know how she does it or even what is on her head?! But she stays dirtier than the two boys and they are white!<br />
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She has a very smart technique to pop her necklaces off at will and I suspect she is trying to get out of her clothes so she can be a nakedy baby! <img alt="Shock 3" src="http://www.myemoticons.com/images/emotions/shocked/shock-3.gif" /><br />
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Thankfully though (for me anywho) with a few treats and little encouragement she will model for me like a true princess.. and then off again to wrestle with the boys!!<br />
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Cinnas Tutu Dress and Tutu Skirt were made by Susan at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BlueRidgeCrafter" target="_blank">Blue Ridge Crafter</a><br />
Cinnas Necklace is handmade by me and available for other Diva Doggies at <a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/frivolousbeadedfun" target="_blank">Frivolous Beaded Fun</a><br />
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com4Southport, NC 28461, USA33.9899994 -78.042368333.779350900000004 -78.3582253 34.2006479 -77.726511300000013tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-1972908699650725252012-03-14T20:01:00.001-07:002012-03-14T20:01:06.355-07:00Wordless Wednesday: Fatherhood.. lol<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WuoaHMrpuqk/T2FardS-syI/AAAAAAAAOr8/mxYshNynHoU/s1600/DSC08963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WuoaHMrpuqk/T2FardS-syI/AAAAAAAAOr8/mxYshNynHoU/s400/DSC08963.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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hahahaa.. ok looking a bit happier with Ginger.. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h1E4X2PAmvg/T2FasubQuMI/AAAAAAAAOss/ir89NmXaX0s/s1600/DSC08971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h1E4X2PAmvg/T2FasubQuMI/AAAAAAAAOss/ir89NmXaX0s/s400/DSC08971.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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And here is a pictures of Cinna because she is pretty.. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lTRHSzuJDS0/T2FbS4mB6MI/AAAAAAAAOs0/HFftV2vncWo/s1600/DSC08982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lTRHSzuJDS0/T2FbS4mB6MI/AAAAAAAAOs0/HFftV2vncWo/s400/DSC08982.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-15510494251922473692012-02-27T08:16:00.000-08:002012-02-27T08:32:08.767-08:00Monday Mischief: RIP Weird Bird Thing... We Will Miss You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h4VncjAe78I/T0urmu_ydCI/AAAAAAAAIGk/G47iTuoE8Gk/s1600/DSC09275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h4VncjAe78I/T0urmu_ydCI/AAAAAAAAIGk/G47iTuoE8Gk/s400/DSC09275.JPG" width="275" /></a></div>
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Any Information Leading to the Chastisement of the Charming Chi Responsible for this Heinous Crime against Norbert the Weird Bird Thing will be Rewarded... with a Chicken Cookie. Come on little Chis.. Start Pointing Some PAWS!!</div>
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Poor thing.. used to be rather cute..</div>
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RIP Norbert the Weird Bird Pen thing .. </div>
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My Handmade Jewelry is now available on Artfire</div>
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Frivolous Beaded FUN </div>
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Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-15811552080654915802012-02-25T18:50:00.000-08:002012-02-25T18:50:24.576-08:00Just a Proud Braggy post!I just had to come over and talk about what an awesome Doggy Day I had!! I was asked to bring one of the Chis along to our Beading Group this morning so I dolled little Cinna all up bath and all and took her along.<br />
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She was an absolute angel there too! I hadnt taken her 'visiting' before and wasnt sure how she would do but she was perfect! I am so proud of her. She stuck right by my chair on her blanket. She let people pet her. She didnt bark or growl. And she didnt piddle on their carpet!! What more could you want?!</div>
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And on a related note.. We took little Fen over out on an errand yesterday and he was very good and let people pet him too. :-)</div>
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Here is another picture of Cinna in her darling dress made by Susan over at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BlueRidgeCrafter" target="_blank">Blue Ridge Crafter</a> on Etsy.</div>
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-34606445974218337422012-02-17T14:15:00.000-08:002012-02-17T14:23:58.103-08:00Seven to a bed..? Yep!<br />
Well Bedtime is a little more hectic now that all the little ones are officially sleeping with us. Susu and Ginger have slept in the bed with us for years and the puppies started about 3 days ago. I originally was just taking Cori but then the others were jealous and since they are very spoiled little doggies they got to get in bed too. <br />
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So far it is working out well. They are nice and warm and snuggly. Of course Cori prefers to sleep on Dads head.. hahaha. And there is some growling and grumbling while everyone works out their little sleeping places. And of course we get trampled during their 'Yay! We get to sleep with Mom and Dad' excitement time. But all in all it's nice having them all with us at night now. :-) <br />
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<br /></div>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-84295655006655547152012-02-13T08:02:00.000-08:002012-02-13T09:18:24.301-08:00Beading Buddy Fail..I was working on a necklace for a friend this weekend and Cori wanted to snuggle on my lap. Sounds good to me because who wouldn't want a snuggly warm puppy on their lap, right? <br />
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I scoop him up and plop him in my lap and tell him there are two rules for being Moms beading buddy. Dont eat the beads and don't eat the string.<br />
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Well it took all of about 20 seconds before goofy-butt is spitting a little mouthful of teeny tiny beads out all over my lap! hahahaa Thankfully he just spit them back out since they are actually glass. But talk about not following instructions and its not like they smell like chicken or anything!! Geez!!!<br />
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Of course he is currently licking the laptop so who knows with this boy!<br />
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Anywho... keeps your eyes peeled for some updated pictures and a 'Fashion Show' in the coming days!! That's right! The chibabies got some awesome new clothes made my Susan over at
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/blueridgecrafter">http://www.etsy.com/people/blueridgecrafter</a> and I cant wait to show them off!! :-)Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-58011489911533125492012-02-01T11:28:00.000-08:002012-02-13T09:19:35.393-08:00Wordless Wednesday: The Guilty Face!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gets a little hard to deny with pee pad fluff in your mouth now doesn't it?Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-34080186931531596602012-01-31T11:10:00.000-08:002012-02-01T13:11:09.211-08:00Welcome to The Charming Chi Awards Ceremony!<br />
My new schedule at work has left me behind in a few things and one of them is passing on Blogger Awards. It has really been a wonderful surprise how encouraging and supportive other pet bloggers have been to my new venture here at The Charming chi. <br />
This blog has actually received a few awards over the past month and I really wanted to take the time to type up my acceptance speech and pass the awards along!!<br />
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So I have a little extra bling on today for the occasion and a bit of chocolate so it feels more like a celebration! Of course I'm sure the Chis are busy making confetti while I'm away so they are certainly in the festive spirit of things too!! <img src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/cool/1245.gif" /><br />
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A Huge Huge Thank you to Patrice and Higgins from The Adventures of Higgins for the Pawsome Blogger Award and the Liebster Award. Patrice has been so wonderfully supportive of my efforts here and has been a great encouragement to me. <hugs> Thank you so much Patrice!!! And if you have stopped by her blog in awhile you really should because Higgins is a cutie with a larger than life personality and you are guaranteed a smile when you visit!!<br />
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Patrice and Higgins<br />
<a href="http://theadventuresofhiggins.blogspot.com/">http://theadventuresofhiggins.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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And Thank you so much to Mary, Roxy and Torrey from Roxy the Traveling Dog for awarding me the Pawsome Blogger award!! As a 'new' blogger it's easy to get discouraged or feel like no one is reading. The comments and support from great friends is just wonderful and so appreciated!! Be sure to check out the latest antics of an awesome dog at Roxy the Traveling Dog!!<br />
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Mary, Roxy and Torrey
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<a href="http://roxythetravelingdog.com/">http://roxythetravelingdog.com/</a>
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<b>And now the moment we have all been waiting for!! As many of you know these awards are not for hoarders!! No way!! You have to pass them on and that is a huge part of the fun!! </b><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>And so me and the Chis would like to award a Pawsome Blogger Award to the following 16 blogs!!</b></span><br />
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<img src="http://roxythetravelingdog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/PawsomeBloggerAward.png" />
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<ol>
<li><a href="http://hrhkinggopher.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Gopher Sessions: Adventures with a Therapy Dog</a></li>
<li><a href="http://adorablechi.com/" target="_blank">Adorable Chi</a></li>
<li><a href="http://thechickandthehound.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Chick & The Hound</a></li>
<li><a href="http://yorkietails.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Yorkie Tails</a></li>
<li><a href="http://adogsjournal.com/" target="_blank">A Dogs Journal</a></li>
<li><a href="http://chisandthecity.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chi's and the City</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.chihuahuasarenotsheep.com/" target="_blank">Chihuahuas are not Sheep</a></li>
<li><a href="http://tuckertheweeweechu.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tucker the WeeChu</a></li>
<li><a href="http://baileyunleashed.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Bailey Unleashed</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.mydogslove.me/" target="_blank">My Dogs Love Me</a></li>
<li><a href="http://doginthedesert.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Dog in the Desert</a></li>
<li><a href="http://prudencepup.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Coonhound's Tale</a></li>
<li><a href="http://2browndawgs.com/" target="_blank">2 Brown Dawgs Blog</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.mytailhurtsfromwaggingsomuch.com/" target="_blank">My Tail Hurts From Wagging So Much</a></li>
<li><a href="http://janet-bassetmomma.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Basset Mama</a></li>
<li><a href="http://dachshundnola.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Dachshund Nola</a></li>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>And we would like to award a Liebster Blog Award to the following 5 blogs!!</b></span>
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<img alt="liebster award higigns blog" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9gHrI2fqdZs/TvzQ-yRtNmI/AAAAAAAAEyE/LET6OcU-qyE/liebster%252520award%252520higigns%252520blog_thumb.png?imgmax=800" />
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<ol>
<li><a href="http://baileyunleashed.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Bailey Unleashed</a>
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<li><a href="http://www.chihuahuasarenotsheep.com/" target="_blank">Chihuahuas are not Sheep</a>
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<li><a href="http://thechickandthehound.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Chick & The Hound</a>
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<li><a href="http://tuckertheweeweechu.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tucker the WeeChu</a>
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<li><a href="http://www.mydogslove.me/" target="_blank">My Dogs Love Me</a>
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</ol>
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<br />Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-10365667558337085432012-01-25T18:36:00.000-08:002012-01-25T18:36:21.983-08:00Wordless Wednesday: Father & Son<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Susu and Cori.. Cori really really loves his dad.. Susu?.. well Susu's not too sure about puppies.. lolCharming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-49831289870451069162012-01-23T10:49:00.000-08:002012-01-23T11:27:55.873-08:00Monday Mischief: Why I Like Dogs.You know, there are some really great reasons to have dogs. Of course there is all that standard stuff of them being loyal and cute and all. But there are lots of other great things about having a dog and since I'm feeling a bit 'mischievous' myself today, here are my top 10 reasons for loving my dogs. :-)<br />
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<ol>
<li>No matter how much junk food I eat they still look at me like it was a great idea to get yet another piece of candy.
<img src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/happy/050.gif" /></li>
<li>They are always happy to see me, even when I have screwed up royally. </li>
<li>They never remind me that I'm in hour 4 of the most pointless computer game known to man.
<img src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/comp/comp25.gif" /></li>
<li>They enjoy slothfulness. The more sloth-like I become the happier they are. That just means more company on the couch for them and they love it!
<img src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/sleep/schla18.gif" /></li>
<li>Entertainment value. Dogs do insanely funny things like shiver and mope with sour cream on their little faces or chase their tails or just entirely 'miss' the couch.
<img src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/crazy/114.gif" /></li>
<li>They make confetti and who doesn't like confetti. Every day I go home and feel like I've just entered a New Years Eve party there is so much confetti in the living room.
<img src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/party/fest31.gif" /></li>
<li>They appreciate the simple things in life, like chicken cookies and lost tissues (useful for making confetti).</li>
<li>Their impressive athletic abilities never cease to amaze me like when I'm putting on a sock and Fen jumps out no where in a crazy matrix move, grabs the sock and is gone..
<img src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/animal/527.gif" /></li>
<li>Dogs in clothes. I never seem to tire of dogs in clothes. They do, but I don't. There is just something intrinsically cute and cuddly about dogs in clothes. And it's like playing dolls which was my all time fav as a kid and where playing dolls would be weird, somehow dressing my dogs up is not. Go figure. <img src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/dressed/bek044.gif" /></li>
<li>And well, who couldn't love these perfect little faces!!</li>
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</div>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1583788620318429865.post-86914365911062109842012-01-21T11:36:00.000-08:002012-01-23T12:09:59.853-08:00Does Your Dog Have ESP?? Mine might!<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>I was sitting in Barnes and Nobles checking out some dog books when this one caught my eye.</b></span><br />
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<h1 class="parseasinTitle " style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1.7em; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span id="btAsinTitle"><i>Dogs That Know When Their Owners Are Coming Home: And Other Unexplained Powers of Animals</i></span></h1>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Dogs That Know When Their Owners Are Coming Home: And Other Unexplained Powers of Animals" height="400" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51M3MHAJ4BL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dogs-That-Their-Owners-Coming/dp/0609805339" style="font-size: medium; text-align: -webkit-auto;">http://www.amazon.com/Dogs-That-Their-Owners-Coming/dp/0609805339</a>
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<b><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #351c75;">Well if that title doesn't get you thinking I don't know what would. I was pretty intrigued. It's a great little interesting read all about animals and dogs that know when people are sick or when their owners start heading home for the day. Even dogs that knew when their owners died in wars hundreds of miles away. </span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #351c75;">But that is only half the story. You see I have a little boy Chihuahua.. my Susu who always knows when we are going to be sick. He velcros himself to the soon to be deathly ill person about 24 hours before the current plague hits. A clingy Susu often means it's time to get some extra vitamin C and clear your schedule for the week because you are going down. </span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #351c75;">However, he cannot fathom what on Earth I could possibly be yapping on about whenever I say something simple like... oh, I don't know SIT.... ! Always thought that one was supposed to be easy but not so much around here. The boys are so opposed to sitting that I'm starting to think the cold floor is just not getting along with their hoolahs.. so they are just like.. 'uh.. nope.. not gonna do it.' </span></b><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>But while I was reading about dogs that knew when their owners were coming home.. dogs that can predict seizures.. and all the other amazing things that dogs can do I had that grand 'light bulb' moment of all moments!! </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><b><br /></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>What if I close my eyes really really tight and focus all of my mental ESP energy on Susu sitting. Would he then suddenly be like 'Oh so THAT'S what all the fuss was about' and just sit?? It's a long-shot but if it worked, t</b></span><b style="color: #351c75;">his would revolutionize my life with dogs.. </b><br />
<b style="color: #351c75;"><br /></b><br />
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<b style="color: #351c75;"><span style="font-size: large;">It would be like using The Force on the Chihuahuas.. How awesome would dog training be then.</span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>Anywho, I'm gonna go try to 'use my mind' to get my dogs to do stuff and I'll get back with you in a few days on this.. I'd love for you to try it too and let me know if it works. </b></span><b style="color: #351c75;">Afterall, this Jedi Mindtrick stuff is only gonna be as good as the mind doing it and well.. I'm currently going to try using my nonexistent Jedi powers to get my dogs to sit so what does that tell you?? </b><img src="http://www.websmileys.com/sm/dressed/bek040.gif" /><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>Have a great day everyone and Go Have Some Fun!! </b></span><b style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">It's SATURDAY!!</span> </b><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>Charming Chishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05234032198417740825noreply@blogger.com5