Gone to the Dogs Part 2

For Part 1 see: (Kevin's take on Holland dogs),

If we would have been a little more savvy when we first arrived 3 1/2 years ago, we would have gotten our puppy right away. But we finally have become Holland dog owners. As our good friend Eric says, "If I were reincarnated as a dog I'd want to come back to Holland". Though we don't have a yard for our dog to run in, we do have lots of open fields and "dog runs". The city maintains areas between canals where dogs can run and play with other dogs off leash. We take our dog to the dog run regularly, though recently a local shepherd took his sheep to the dog run for its bi-annual mowing, which has been problematic since dogs love to flop on their backs and roll around in strange smelling things. We've been avoiding the dog run since the sheep were there, unless we want to go straight home and give Sammie a bath.

The Dutch don't greet one another on the street, unless you each have a dog. Dog socialization is very important here, so you are guaranteed to be greeted and have a friendly chat with other dog owners anywhere you go walking, consequently we've met more Dutch neighbors in the 3 months we've had our puppy, then in our first 3 years. We even have a daily doggie playtime every afternoon between 4:00 and 5:00 when several neighbors meet in the little park in our neighborhood. The dogs play while the adults visit. Conversation starts with the different traits of each dog, but quickly moves on to other things. It sort of reminds me of days gone by when I would take my preschoolers to McDonalds playland with another mom, except that doggie play time is supervised by both male and female, young and old.


Dogs have it good here, and we are enjoying our little pup. Sammie is half lab and half friese stabij (a Dutch breed similar to a spaniel).

If you took a peek at Kevin's post "Gone to the Dogs" I can give you an update. Kevin pretty much got his wish, a Dutch-American breed, she obeys but is a fun rascal too, he didn't even have to train her to chase the ducks. I get a little grin on my face everytime she chases the ducks and birds, remembering Kevin's wish.

posted by Kathy