2 Milk Bones Per Day

Imagine going 8 years without a dental cleaning. Tyson has. He has never had his teeth cleaned at the vet. Yet, at each check-up (by numerous veterinarians) we have been told, "His teeth look great. Did you just have them cleaned?" Although we have never paid for a dental cleaning, we have participated in a regular hygiene program. Tyson's teeth are cleaned twice daily - courtesy of Milk Bone biscuits for large breed dogs. He also flosses in the evenings - by chewing rope toys and destroying various furry creatures.

This has worked for us so far and he has received many compliments about his oral health. Tyson's teeth are pearly white and his breath is fine - according to doggy standards.

***This is a personal account and is not intended to replace medical advice. If your dog's teeth are loose, broken, or discolored or if he/she has extremely bad breath, see your vet as soon as possible. Also note, small breeds typically experience dental issues earlier in life than large breeds.

Clown Dogs

I have read that boxers are the "clowns" of the canine world. But since I don't know many other members of this breed, I have been unable to generalize. Boxer fanciers brag that one of the breed's best qualities is their innate desire to make their owners laugh. Tyson does just this - on a daily basis.

When Tyson is excited, he will spin himself around in circles, sometimes completing 7 or 8 360's before he tires out. He has been known to sprint through the house at break-neck speeds as though he has some sort of apparition on his heels. He also enjoys jumping up and wrapping his front paws around Craig's legs for no reason. On other occasions, he will jump off the couch, run to his toy basket, pick something out, and entice us to play with him. And, he will not give up until we give in. Like a clown, Tyson's main duty in life is to make us laugh. The harder we laugh, the harder he plays.

Since Craig and I are relatively new dog owners, we thought all dogs behaved in this manner. But a year ago, we had the opportunity to dog sit Cherokee, a beautiful Shepherd-Malamute mix. Cherokee was extremely well-behaved, loving, and affectionate. But he did not display all of the qualities that we were used to seeing in Tyson. In fact, Cherokee seemed a bit puzzled by Tyson's behavior. He watched Tyson with confusion and a bit of concern. His expression seemed to say, "What are you?" and "Have you been tested for DADHD"? (Doggie ADHD)

This picture captures one of the moments when Cherokee was puzzled with Tyson's behavior. Cherokee is a gorgeous, gentle animal and I love his refined, serious demeanor. But I also love Tyson's silliness. After a long, hard day, nothing cheers me up faster than my clown dog.

Supermodel Tyson

I'm guilty. I have been known (on occasion) to dress up my dog and pose him - all for the sake of a funny photo. Tyson has been a frog and has worn a Santa suit as well as hoodies, sweaters, and a few bandannas.

Each time I lift one of his furry long legs to stuff it in a little sleeve, he looks at me with the same exasperated expression: "Seriously? Do you really think this looks good?" I laugh and take his picture and he waits for me to take off the dreadful costume.

Silly me, there's no need to pose a dog like Tyson. He is more than capable of setting up his own photo shoot.

Just the other evening, Craig and I dropped everything when we noticed that he was lying in such a cute position on the couch - practically hugging his pillow. "Get the camera! Quick!" I said.

But we could only find our cell phone on short notice.

The next time I want a cute pic of Tyson, I will be more patient. He poses when he is ready - and he knows when he is looking his best!