Dogs of Melbourne

Black retriever supports St Kilda on Glen Huntly Road

2010-09-23T00:44:00.000-07:00

This beautiful black curly-haired retriever is backing St Kilda to win Saturday's Grand Final. He is outside Blights Shoe Repair and getting many pats from other supporters - there are a lot of St Kilda supporters on Glen Huntly Road.

I saw him a couple of times and when he was just displaying the colours and not responding to pats and conversation he was zoned out.

Million Paws Walk- RSPCA -Albert Park Lake - 2010

2010-08-21T03:43:00.000-07:00

These photos are from the RSPCA Million Paws Walk which was held on a sunny day in May. Albert Park Lake sparkled as about a million paws and feet walked the distance.

I have been neglecting this blog lately. It's a time factor rather than wanting to leave The Dogs. I've loved meeting so many Melbourne dogs and there has been some great dog. However it is time to move on.

I am going to concentrate on my new blog http://www.melbourneplaces.com/. It is a fun and exciting blog to work on and it would be great if you visited me there. The blog is about my love for Melbourne - my adopted city. Melbourne has become my home. The city welcomed me with open arms - it has been a lucky city for me and I hope my blog http://www.melbourneplaces.com/ introduces you to its charms.

Thank you all for visiting my blog over the years. I hope you have enjoyed the variety, quirkiness and the uniqueness of dogs who make Melbourne their home. I have enjoyed your comments and getting to know some of your dogs and of course you. My love and best wishes to all of you - dogs and people.

A Border Collie enjoying the magic of an Autumn low tide at St Kidla Beach.

2010-04-17T01:38:00.000-07:00

We have suddenly got some hot weather back after a wintry spell. Low tide at the off-leash beach at St Kilda was a paradise for dogs this morning.

Two small black dogs walking in the puddles of sea water left by the receding tide.

English Bull Dogs have wonderful faces

2010-04-15T03:30:00.000-07:00

This lovely Bull dog has recently joined the dogs that wait at my gym. He is very still but his eyes move and I know he is taking everything in.

Shiatzu waiting at the loading bay Bunnings

2010-04-07T17:56:00.000-07:00

I have had time out from this blog but I hope I am on board again with this cutie. She looks like a Shiatzu and is waiting at the Bunnings' loading bay. I don't think you would say she was waiting patiently. She was looking everywhere with her bright eyes darting about showing great curiosity in everything around her.

She wasn't tied in and I felt her liveliness may cause her to jump out. After I took the photos she was still waiting but when I came out the vehicle and dog had gone. She is obviously full of life and intelligent enough to know that getting out of the car in the busy yard at Bunntings would not be a sensible thing to do.

Cairn Terrier/ King Charles Spaniel cross is straight out of the beauty palour

2010-01-30T21:32:00.000-08:00

This lovely cross breed had many admirers. I thought she could be anxious to get home before her beautiful silky coat picked up any of the dust and debris from the St Kilda Streets. She was showing lots of patience.

Working Dogs who help disabled people -

2010-01-18T16:34:00.000-08:00

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These dogs called A.W.A.R.E Dogs and were out raising awareness and collecting money for the Aware Dogs of Australia.

These are dogs that assist people with a handicap. We all know about seeing eye dogs for the blind but these dogs are not so well known. They assist in so many ways; they can pick up items that are dropped and bring the telephone when it rings. The different ways they help depends on the special needs of the person they are trained to assist. You can learn more about them at the A.W.A.R.E. web site.

Missy has her own way of travelling

2009-12-28T20:53:00.000-08:00

Chapel Street, Prahran is one of the places to be seen in Melbourne. Missy loves being out and about along the strip. There is a bit of a swing about travelling in a carry bag.

You are away from everyone's feet but this means you are looking at everyone's knees. And not all knees are worth looking at.
At this height it is possible to look down on other small dogs who are out shopping.

But I think it could be a bit disconcerting to come nose to nose with bigger dogs, the dogs that Missy winds her lead around as she walks underneath them.

Rescue Dog Cody plays Santa

2009-12-18T18:51:00.000-08:00

Cody a rescue dog wishes everyone and in particular all the rescue dogs and those waiting in shelters to be rescued, a very happy Christmas and a very lucky 2010.

Read more about Cody's and his luck here.

I fell for this dog the moment I saw him....

2009-12-13T01:51:00.001-08:00

He was very still waiting on the back of the ute. He simply watched me as if he wanted to say something but he couldn't think of the words.

I often wonder about big dogs like this - do people cuddle them and pet them the way we do smaller dogs? This dog looks as if he would love a cuddle and some petting..

Patient Labrador Cross looking after the family pusher

2009-11-23T12:52:00.000-08:00

This labrador cross is a loving dog living with a young family. We arrived at a fund raiser for a local child care centre and found him very patiently guarding the family's pusher.

When we left he was still there. I thought he was starting to look a little sad as if he had been forgotten. Perhaps he was just tired of waiting and wanted something interesting to happen.

This black dog is keen for an early morning swim. With the temperature in the late 20s it is a great time to play in the sea

2009-11-13T16:56:00.000-08:00

There is a small heat wave in Melbourne with the temperatures rising to about 35 degrees some days. This energetic black dog was eager to play games and cool off in the sea at St Kilda. It was a great morning for a swim.

Dogs at the Victoria Market

2009-10-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning at Victoria Market is hectic. It is not really the place for a dog whose vision would be completely blocked by a wall of legs and feet. I took a short cut to get myself through more quickly and found these two.

It is quiet behind the stalls and even if you are waiting amongst all the rubbish it has to be better than struggling through the legs of thousands of humans.

Brown and White Retreiver waiting in Swan Street Richmond

2009-09-23T02:46:00.000-07:00

This beautifully groomed brown and white retriever was out and about on a cold spring day in Richmond.

Her white silky hair was so white it seemed a pity to see her sitting on a grubby pavement. She was snuggled down beside the plants at the Book Street Cafe keeping out of the way of the foot traffic. She looks very bored with it all.

Miniature Jack Russell breakfasting in Greville Street, Prahran

2009-09-07T19:15:00.000-07:00

This elderly Jack Russell greets friends every morning from a sunny Prahran cafe. He sits in the leafy courtyard; often on his own chair - the concrete can be cold even on a sunny morning.

His anxious look is because he has to wait while the bill is paid. It happens this way every day but still it is an anxious time for a miniature Jack Russell to be left alone. He wasn't keen to be photographed either. I think he is telling me that.

Where do dogs eat out in Melbourne? My Dog Café Dismantled

2009-08-18T04:02:00.000-07:00

I ask that question because My Dog Cafe on the Station Pier, Port Melbourne, has closed.

I still get a number of hits to 'My Dog Cafe - Dogs Eating Out' I wrote this post back in March last year. It is time to up-date. The cafe has gone.

This is how the area and the cute building looks now - not a sign that it was once a cafe.

This is what it looked like in March 2008 -an interesting place to visit.

I have enjoyed many a coffee and snack there in the company of various dogs. I loved being on the water and I always admired the drink bowl fountain. Sadly that has gone too.

So where do dogs eat out in Melbourne? If you know please tell.

It's a fun way to end an outing with your dog - calling into a cafe that is set up for your dog to enjoy the experience as well as you and you can both get a snack before heading home.

Maltese and Bitzer out and about - High Street Armadale

2009-08-09T04:09:00.000-07:00

It was a lovely sunny day on Saturday and as we wandered along High Street, Armadale we found these two dogs waiting. The owners were nowhere in sight and as we stopped to admire, we wondered about the little black one. A couple of people passing announced she was a Bitzer.

She is a beautiful Bitzer! It would be interesting to know what bits have created her - does anyone know or feel they can hazzard a guess?

Golden Retriever and White Labrador in Albert Park

2009-08-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

A winter's morning by the Albert Park Lake and dogs are out for walks but when their owners' stop for breakfast at the Carousel Cafe a bike stand is a good place to wait.

You can guess the direction of the cafe.

This white labrador is also watching, intently who is coming and going from the Carousel Cafe and to do this he has a bar of the bike stand in the way. You would think he would move but perhaps he feels secure behind it.

Chihuahuas out in the warmer weather

2009-07-21T03:11:00.000-07:00

Melbourne has warmed up over the last couple of days. It's very windy but the wind is warm and these two chihuahuas were out in St Kilda East without their coats.

Life can get rather boring when you are waiting and I believe one of them is telling his friend a secret.

It is too early for spring and I bet the next time I see these two they will be rugged up.

Beautifully clipped Maltese Terrier at Cafe Racer

2009-07-07T17:58:00.000-07:00

I photographed this darling Maltese in the doorway of Cafe Racer in St Kilda on Sunday morning. She is beautifully clipped and coated for the winter weather but she appears to be wondering why she is there. And no wonder. In the weekend Cafe Racer is the hang-out of all the Lycra clad cyclists who ride the beach road.

She didn't arrive on a bike and she is being stepped over by many of the people who did.
She may be a regular visitor although I haven't seen her before.

Her presence would seem unremarkable during the week when the clientele becomes more varied and it is quieter. The locals wander in and sit for hours often with their laptops or reading the papers.

Kelpie/ Greyhound cross waiting at the St Kilda Sea Baths

2009-07-03T03:55:00.000-07:00

Charlie is a Greyhound /Kelpie cross. This is what his owner was told when he found him at the Lort Smith Animal Hospital. His new owner believes that this must be the case, but he finds it an odd combination.

Charlie's eyes are unusual. Are they Greyhound or Kelpie eyes? I don't know either of the breeds well enough to know but I find them a little disconcerting.

Charlie likes to engage with other dogs and is keen on a good bark when he is in their company. He was being extremely well behave at the St Kilda Sea Baths.

His owner said that he fell on his feet when they found him. They love him and are trying to teach him not bark every time he feels the urge.

I wonder if the look in his eye is one of anxiety? Perhaps it is just the way he views the world - from piercing eyes.

The Ugliest Dog Competition - the winner

2009-06-30T17:35:00.000-07:00

This darling is NOT the ugliest dog in the Word

I have just viewed the video of the dog that won the Most Ugliest Dog in the World competition that was held in Californis USA. To my surprise I found that people considered a Chinese Crested dog the most ugly.

I have had a couple of posts about Chinese Crested dogs recently and I have found myself drawn to the dogs. View the BBC video here. What do you think? Perhaps it is just the tongue?

Melbourne Chinese Crested

The First Chinese Crested I saw was in the window of a shop in Victoria Street Richmond, Melbourne.

I was fascinated and I wasn't to only one. The dog drew a crowd. Why? They are rare here in Melbourne so we are not used to seeing a dog that is almost hairless.

To us, dogs should be covered in some sort of dense, short, long , wiry, curly or silky hair. The only time most of us see our dog's skin is when they are shaved for an operation. This makes the Chinese Crested unique - almost a freak of nature.

The Crested in the Video appears to have a jaw problem - the tongue is hanging out. The dog in the Victoria Street window manages to keep his tongue where it should be and I think he is sweet.

Dogs take a trip to the library

2009-06-25T02:48:00.000-07:00

The Port Philip Public Library in St Kilda is a great place to hang out.

These two dog ride to the library in style. The boring part is waiting. They are both cross breeds and very lively. They use their waiting time to snooze and re-new their energy base.

It is only half snoozing. As soon as they think their 'Person' is coming they wake up and get ready to welcome her back and then get excited about the ride home.

Rescue Dogs Melbourne, San Francisco

2009-06-20T16:15:00.001-07:00

I have had a lovely e-mail from Linda in San Francisco regarding their Rescue Dog Scheme. This is what she says,

‘Two of our GREAT friends and WONDERFUL volunteers, Mat and Anna, are
moving to Australia next year...... our loss will be YOUR gain....
they are amazing dog people who do So very much for rescue!

Best wishes to you and ALL the dogs of Melbourne!

linda beenau
wonder dog rescue
http://www.wonderdogrescue.org

Check out their web site - they are doing wonderful work. This is what Linda told me.

'Wonder Dog Rescue is a group of volunteers committed to rescue, rehabilitate
and re-home dogs at risk of euthanasia because of shelter overcrowding, age,
and special needs. We are always looking for volunteers to foster
dogs, transport,
or help at our adoption fairs. We encourage you to join us and becomepart of the solution.'

After getting this e-mail I thought I would visit the rescue dog, Cody, who I first featured on this blog in December 2007.

Read his story here.
As you can see from the photos he is still looking good although he is now a few years older.

He came from the Melbourne Save-a-dog-scheme http://www.saveadog.org.au/

You may like to share a rescue dog story with us. It is always heart warming to read good-outcome stories.

Rescue Dogs – Chinese Crested

2009-06-14T03:34:00.000-07:00

The Wonder Dog Rescue in San Francisco says they have rescued several Chinese Crested.This is a photo of one that they have re-housed. He is so sweet and looks so cute in his hat I had show him to all of you.

The Wonder Dog Rescue says they are very loving dogs and make great pets. They tell me they do get cold easily. If you’re in Melbourne with your Chinese Crested remember to cozy your darling up in the freezing winter weather we are having at the moment.

English Bull Dog, Buzooka, skateboards in Japan

2009-06-09T03:34:00.000-07:00

My last posting showed an English Bull taking it easy in Albert Park.

This Bull dog never seems to take it easy. He is Japan’s best known skateboarding Bull Dog.

Check out this link. It is amazing.

More amazing because skateboarding is an unlikely sport for Bull Dogs who have short stubby legs but Bazooka manages to use his powerful legs to push his board along. Then he jumps on to ride and uses his stubby little legs to balance and steer around the corners - amazing!

His owner, Ishikawa, says´ "When he was 5-months old, he saw someone skateboarding in the street, and that must have switched him on,". He also likes to chew his board so they have to be especially made for him with non-toxic paint. To date it is reported that he has chewed 15 boards.

Bazooka makes skateboarding an expensive hobby.

English Bull Dog in Albert Park

2009-06-06T03:47:00.001-07:00

English Bull dogs are such great dogs. This one was resting in Albert Park Shopping Village while his family ate brunch.

People have said Bull Dogs look like Winston Churchill or that he looked like a bull dog.

Does this face look like a Bull Dog to you?

Winston Churchill as he looked later in his life.

Bull dogs make very affectionate pets. People who have had a bull dog in the family often say they would never have another breed of dog.

Chinese Crested Dog in Richmond Melbourne

2009-05-30T16:40:00.001-07:00

Chinese Crested dogs are rare on the Melbourne dog scene. This is the first time I have seen one and I was fascinated.This Chinese Crested was in a sunny window of the Retrovision Store in Richmond.

I wasn't the only one who stopped to admire and study him. A crowd gathered. He didn’t stay in the window long. It was as if he was embarrassed because he soon headed for the rear of the store and out of sight.

The sun was shining when this fellow was out but I can believe that they must feel the cold and with winter upon us the Chinese Crested dogs would have to be cosseted. I read also that their skin can sunburned just like a human’s skin and therefore owners have to take care not to have their dogs in the sun too long without sun screen.

My only worry about this poppet was that he kept scratching as you can see by the photo. I wondered if his ears were itchy. When he wasn't scratching he looked very alert and intellegent.

Pugs out and about in Bridport Street, Albert Park

2009-05-28T02:31:00.001-07:00

These two Pugs are in the same family. The big Pug is a 3 year old pure breed pug and the little one, who is full grown, is a 3/ 4 Pug and 1/4 King Charles Cavalier Spaniel. His face is a little more spaniel like. The little one is younger and livelier.

The pugs were attracting a lot of attention as ‘dogs waiting’ for their owners to breakfast in Albert Park. Pugs are very appealing and these two were spoken to by a number of passersby as they joined part of the Sunday Lunch scene along the busy shopping strip in Bridport Street Albert Park

Border Collie with three legs enjoys the street vibes.

2009-05-25T16:08:00.000-07:00

This cheerful dog ( I believe he is a Border Collie X) was enjoying his wait. He was eagerly looking at people and wagging his tail – just enjoying the vibes of the street. It took me a moment to realize that he was missing his front leg.

His hair has grown back so well there isn’t a break in the sweep of black and white. He is having no problem being an amputee.

I imagine that the advantage in being a dog amputee is that you have no physiological problems. You’re not concerned with your difference. You’re just happy to be loved and out and about on a sunny day.

2009 Million Paws Walk – RSPCA

2009-05-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

Were there a million paws? There was a sea of people and dogs in Melbourne walking around Albert Park Lake. There were certainly thousands. I was moved and a little choked up when I saw the stream of legs and feet making their way around the Park.

At the same time, throughout the country, dogs and people were doing similar walks. It is an awe inspiring vision to get your head around

A million paws is 250,000 dogs and that is a lot of dog. I would say it was unlikely there were 250,000 dogs in the Melbourne event. But standing watching them go past it looked like a 250,000 . There were dogs upon dogs as far as the eye could see moving around the lake.

What makes the event so moving is the relaxed and easy way people interact with each other and, chat and team up and perhaps make lasting friends.

Melbourne dogs must be the most socialized dogs in the world. They interact and sniff and eye-ball each other. They never seem to feel the need to have a little snap or a growl. They trot along wagging their tails and I am sure they are passing pleasant friendly comments to their canine companions.

They are cosmopolitan dogs who live in a sophisticated and cultural city. They rise to the occasion

There was every breed of dog, tiny dogs to enormous dogs, slim delicate dogs to hefty muscular dogs all walking together and not irritating one another. They knew, I bet they knew that it was all for a cause - the RSPCA.

A German Shepherd shows love and loyalty to his Labrador companion

2009-05-17T14:41:00.000-07:00

This is a story I saw on the BBC and it warmed my heart

At 6.30am on a busy New York expressway, a Labrador is hit by a car and lies on the tarmac while her companion, a German Shepherd, leaps into the traffic to protect her.

Police officers who tried to rescue the injured dog had to do so while the other dog was in full protection mode which made their job harder. They managed to lift the injured Labrador with a sheet into the police vehicle to take her to the animal hospital. Then they had trouble catching the other dog who wanted to follow the police car.

All ended happily with the police “ arresting” the German Shepherd without injury to either the police or the dog and the two dogs were re-united. The injured dog has a broken leg and bruising and is expected to make a full recovery.

When you think of the speed on a motorway or expressway it is hard to imagine how all this could happen with so little injury to either dog or the people helping. Perhaps that was due to the courage of the German Shepherd. His determination to protect his friend brought the right vibes for a successful outcome.

This picture was taken at the RSPCA’s Million Paw Walk. See my next post.

German Shepherds are great dogs. They were originally bred to protect and herd sheep so protection is not new to them. Their intelligence makes them great pets. They respond well to training and are often used as guide dogs and police dogs.

They can show great self discipline when trained as this popular picture shows. I have always wondered at the confidence of the cat in this picture.

A fully grown German Shepherd is physically very strong and needs lots of exercise

Meet Sunshine the Chihuahua, Pomeranian Cross

2009-05-13T04:03:00.000-07:00

This delightful little dog was found wandering the streets in a bad state and was taken in and cared for.

Her charming owner, who said she was in her early 80s, didn’t want to be photographed. She told me all about how she came by Sunshine and explained how they both go round collecting signatures for petitions to help lobby against cruelty to animals. They have recently been campaigning to save the whales in the Southern Ocean

Sunshine sometimes walks but she tires easily so needs to spend time in the comfort of the shopping cart.

Sunshine the Chihuahua / Pomeranian

Why the name Sunshine? Her owner says it is because she has brought sunshine into her life.

Jack Russell X Pug and a Corgi X Staffordshire Terrier

2009-05-10T02:13:00.000-07:00

Get to know Sassy’s boys.

Maxwell is a Jack Russell Pug cross commonly called JUG and Mateuz is a Corgi Staffy cross and called Corfy for short.

Sassy says these two beautiful dogs were intentionally cross bred. They are great looking guys.

She has trained her de-sexed male dogs to live by routine and to fit the routine into her life. She is the leader of the pack. They get up in the morning and head outdoors for fresh air and healthy exercise. She believes it is essential for them to work off their energy before she leaves them and heads off to work.

It is the same at the end of the day they exercise again and then in the weekends they all go for a longer time out doors. This is what she writes ….

“As for our lives here in town, well we live in Windsor just near the hustle and bustle of Chapel St and all its noises, smells and sounds. We have great parks nearby and many 4 legged mates. Most of the local traders know my dogs, and will happily let us eat or shop in their store with them in my company. I feel so lucky to have the accommodation that suits my dogs, two glorious personalities that bring me so much joy and a network of friends and dogs that we have made.”

They're great mates and not only do they sleep together but they eat from the same bowl. Now that is friendship.

Cairn Terrier – beautiful at almost 2years

2009-05-04T05:15:00.000-07:00

Mack the Cairn Terrier loves posing for photos - he knows he looks good. He is showing off his thickening winter coat and do admire his beautiful tail.

We have met Mack before click here. He has matured nicely. Highly intelligent and socialized he has lots of walking friends. He has given his family great pleasure and they love the touch of mischief that lurks behind those enquiring eyes.

He has developed into a stunning adult Cairn Terrier.

I was delighted to get these photos of him. Keep smiling Mack.

Jack Russell X and Spaniel hang out together

2009-05-01T19:08:00.001-07:00

I photographed these dogs at one of my favourite dog-hang-outs.

There are always dogs here killing time and hoping for a pat and a bit of a chat.

The brown and white perky one is called Winnie and I’m told she is a Jack Russell X. I can believe that. She is full of energy and mischief . The Spaniel, Maddy, is shy and more retiring.

They are always together and if you see them try to push past the in-your-face Jack Russell X and give the gentle Spaniel a pat. They are both very loveable.

Labrador and Golden Retriever meet in Alma Park.

2009-04-27T18:13:00.001-07:00

These two didn’t know each but I feel sure they will recognize a mate next time they meet.

This is not a time to socialize for the German Shepherd! He has other things to attend to.

Golden Labrador dressed for winter

2009-04-24T23:15:00.000-07:00

Dog Fashions – This lovely Golden Labrador came third in the recent ‘Four Legged’ Fashion parade at Alma Park. Being dressed alike is fun and it means you can’t get lost. Winter’s on the way these bright colours are very cheerful.

Bark in Alma Park – Dogs' Day Out

2009-04-21T14:49:00.000-07:00

Lining Up

Every dog who was anyone in the dog world was at the Beneful Bark in Alma Park last Saturday. There were free goodies including free professional dog washing and grooming and a four-legged fashion Parade.

Dogs of Melbourne are very well socialized – they queue like the best of them. It is hard to know if they knew why they were waiting. Washing and grooming isn’t usually a dog’s favourite event – although when it is free it is hard to resist.

There were large dogs…. I loved this black and white Great Dane……..

………..and then there were small dogs. A Chihuahua rests a foot on a shoe.

Chapel Street Prahran

2008-09-04T03:27:00.000-07:00

Another patient dog! This one is in the funky Windsor end of Chapel Street

This will be my last post for a few weeks. My mother is very ill in New Zealand so I’m heading off to be with her.

If you visit my blog you may like to take time to refresh your mind on all the special dogs of Melbourne that have found a place somewhere in the posts over the last nine months.

They come in every shape, size and breed and some new breeds that are hard to recognize.

They are all unique in their own funny way and very loveable.

This has to be the best city in the world for wonderful dogs and wonderful people who love and care for them.

I hope to be back with the dogs of Melbourne soon. I am also wondering if it is time to think about the blog and where I may be taking it. -

Have you any ideas of how I could enhance it and make it more interesting and what different directions I could go in? - I'd welcome any of your ideas.

Until next time - love Em

Gold and white Maltese X

2008-08-24T02:25:00.001-07:00

Beautifully groomed and no where to go

"I'm far too clean for this grubby pavement and I'm getting fed-up." I thought this could be what this cute little dog was saying to himself.

Dede - the travelling dog - Poodle X Maltese

2008-08-14T04:19:00.000-07:00

Deliah, her Mum and I joined many other dogs at Gasworks Park last weekend. Melbourne is a dog friendly city and Gasworks Park is an ideal place to see just how dog-friendly it is.

At 11am Sunday morning large dogs race around while their owners stand and talk.
There are smaller dogs at that time, too, but the big dogs bound over most of the open space while the smaller dogs potter around the edges.

It never ceases to surprise me how so many dogs can enjoy each other’s company without any agro. If there is any agro it usually between dogs that are still on their lease. Do those dogs need to prove something? A sort of “I know I’m tethered but I can still beat you!” I can only guess but it does appear to change their attitude to their doggy mates.

Waiting to be served.

The indoor/outdoor cafe

Gas works Park is a park of sculptures for other statues check HERE

There are many off-leash parks and reserves and Melbourne. To find one near you and let your dog enjoy the freedom of these wonderful spaces - check with your local council or on the Internet.

Dede the beautiful Maltese/Poodle on the move

2008-08-10T03:10:00.000-07:00

Gasworks Park is a 'doggie park' in Port Melbourne so it was the right place to meet up with Dede again. Her full name is Delilah and she looks just like a glamerous Delilah especfially with her hair white and fuffly and her ears combed. We meet her a month or so ago. VIEW HERE.

This time I was able to catch her on the move with her ‘Mum’ before she stopped for peppermint tea.

It was a clear cold winter morning and Dede was well rugged up for the bike ride.

More on Gas Works Park and Dede relaxing with the other 'cafe' dogs in my next posting.

My thanks to Dede's Mum for allowing the photos.

Spending time out and about in Melbourne's East

2008-08-07T02:11:00.001-07:00

I understand that these dogs are related to a Maltese but not the same Maltese. They are both very cute and live together and it is nice to think they both had a Maltese as an ancestor.

Dogs, Food and Clothes on Glenhuntly Road

2008-08-03T23:26:00.000-07:00

BLACK DOG

black nose, black mouth, black eyes

Glenhuntly Road in Elsternwick is great for dog watching.
It’s also great for fashion shopping. And great for eating.

I have had some of the best pastries in the bakeries cum cafes and delicatessens along the Elsternwick strip of Glenhuntly Road.

Black Dog waiting outisde Timothy Fine Foods - an eat-in and take away deli.

There's fashion from individual designers with a one-off shop and the more interesting chains like Kamikaze and Brown Bag Clothing. Imported fashions are well represented with a number coming from New Zealand designers and then there are very stylish clothes for older women.

It’s a Busy Street

So think Public transport - It’s a ride on a 67 tram from the city or you can get the train from Flinders Street – the Sandringham line. The station is at the edge of the shopping strip.

Check out the web site

Why am recommending it?

It abounds with dogs that are out shopping and waiting around and I like the atmosphere and the coffee and the food.

William The City Pekingese

2008-07-29T03:53:00.000-07:00

William is a city Pekinese. He lives in Russell House on the corner of King Street and La Trobe Street.
The house has a heritage listing and has been on this spot and in this family for ever. A very elderly couple with their dog William live there. The wife is a direct descendent of the original owner
It is still operated as a café/milk bar.

William has a daily walk in /flagstaff gardens and when I met him he had just returned. He was a little damp from a light rain and a little exhausted. He collapsed under the table and had be coaxed out.

----------------------------DOG---------------------

2008-07-24T03:16:00.000-07:00

When my son was young I remember a number story books that featured dogs. They were every day, ordinary dogs, that you loved because of their wonderful qualities.

Sometimes the dog was simply called ‘Dog’. When I saw this dog waiting in Glenhuntly Road I knew he was one of those story book dogs. A dog you loved because of his personality and possibly you loved him because of the beautiful way the colours were ‘painted’ on his back.

Australian Terrier dressed for the cold

2008-07-19T16:57:00.001-07:00

It’s good to be rugged up when you have to wait around.

I photographed this lively terrier on a day when the temperature didn’t get above 12 degrees

These two Labradors are the only customers

2008-07-15T04:42:00.000-07:00

It’s a mid winter morning at the St Kilda beach and the outside café- tables are empty. A thin cold wind is blowing through the area and there is no sign of the sun.

It’s rather bleak so when you’re waiting it is nice to have a friend to talk to.

Poodles from Stockholm

2008-07-12T01:24:00.000-07:00

I want to introduce these delightful poodles from Stockholm in Sweden to the Australian dogs of Melbourne.The baby Mille is about nine weeks old and Sophie who is old enough to be a great-grandmother is eleven. Sophie is showing great patience and intense interest in Mille in these photos. But, I gather like all great-grandparents she can find the games and the energy of the young a bit trying..Welcome to my blog Sophie and Mille who are seen her with the son of their household, Christian.

I have been viewing this blog for months and although it is in Swedish the photos are so expressive I have come to know and love all the poodles in the family which include: Millie’s Mum Gucci, and Maggie. I also love the photos of flowers that are in their garden. These photos are posted - you need to scroll back to previous posts and be enchanted. CLICK HERE .

Cute white dog waiting in Carlisle Street

2008-07-09T00:17:00.000-07:00

Carlisle Street in East St Kilda is home to a number if pigeons but the dogs that live, walk and wait along the strip treat them as if they are part of the pavement.

The pigeons are always bustling about while the dogs spend much of their time waiting to move on, and sometimes, if it takes too long and nothing much is happening, they take a nap – a dog nap.

A dog nap

Delilah - a Maltese/Poodle cross

2008-07-06T03:15:00.000-07:00

Dede, as she is known to her family, is 12 and a half years old and lives in Port Melbourne. She rides around Melbourne as a pillion passenger and obviously loves sitting behind her ‘Mum’ with the wind blowing her ears and hair.

Her ‘Mum’ says she weighs 7 to 8 kilos so she gets a good workout with Dede on the back. When I met them they had stopped at the Peanut Farm in St Kilda for a run around on the grass.

Dede

West Highland Terrier and Golden Retriever waiting

2008-07-04T00:25:00.000-07:00

These dogs were waiting outside one of my favourite cafes – 'BookTalk' on Swan Street Richmond. I feel at home there, sipping my coffee and reading.

In the summer the outside tables are always full but this cold winter it is different. The doors are kept shut and everyone is snuggled inside except for the dogs. I am always amazed at how patient dogs can be.

If you are in Richmond how about trying the BookTalk cafe and see if you enjoy the ambience. there is usually one or two dogs around demonstrating what patience is all about..

Labrador X and Heeler X keeping out of the cold

2008-06-29T02:53:00.000-07:00

This elderly Labrador was interested in everyone that passed by as he waited out of the wind and the cold. His companion by the bench was far more laid back and was happy to sleep the time away.

Out and about on a winter's morning

2008-06-26T02:32:00.001-07:00

On these chilly winter days a lot of dogs are staying home but this cutie got dressed in pink ribbons to do the morning shopping. Carlisle Street is a good place to be out and about and eyeing the passing legs.

Jack Russell crossed with other breeds

2008-06-19T00:04:00.001-07:00

When I wrote about the Whippet/ Jack Russell cross in my last blog I was reminded of the wonderful dogs I have written about that have been Jack Russell crosses. A cross with a Jack Russell is a good cross. If you want proof have a look at these dogs.

Olivia is a Daschund/Jack Russell X – SEE HER STORY HERE

Rex a Pomeranian/ Jack Russell cross is old now - you can see his grey hair. READ HIS STORY HERE

Leopold is a Maltese/Jack Russell cross. He spends some of his time outside his owners shop smiling at the passers-by. FIND OUT LEOPOLDS HISTORY HERE

This Jack Russell X stopped off in Elwood. He is bursting with energy. His owners are sure of the cross . SEE MORE HERE

It surprises me that they are so different and many of them don't look anything like a Jack Russell.

I'd be very interested if anyone knows any crosses with a Jack Russell that have turned out well.

Let me know and we can share what we know.

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I have posted this twice now and I still can't get it to look right. I am finding that the layout the preview shows isn't the same as it is when I actually post it. Is anyone else finding this? If so do you know what to do about it? It's frustrating when you think you have got everything as you want it then you check out the blog and find it is all over the place.

Whippet and Jack Russell X

2008-06-15T02:56:00.000-07:00

River

I have researched this little dog see this blog. I tried to get a photo of him from inside the Beauty Salon but he refused to co-operate. He is obviously camera shy and likes to be behind glass.

His name is River. Partly from River Phoenix but more because his owner likes the way rivers flow and move and thought it was a good name for him. He is a mixture between a Whippet and a Jack Russell.

I look out for him now when I am passing. When the sun is shining on the couch he is in his place along the back of it.

A lone dog at Raumati Beach

2008-06-11T13:36:00.001-07:00

The beach is west facing so the sun sets into the sea making it lovely at low tide and near the end of the day. The dog had the beach all to itself.

I have just returned from a short visit with my mother. She lives near Raumati Beach and I had hoped to take some photos of dogs enjoying the beach life.

The weather was cold, windy and wet, while I was there and the dogs and their people stayed at home. For rain starved Melburnians the rain was something of a treat especially at night when it relaxed and soothed.

Patience at the Supermarket

2008-06-06T01:25:00.000-07:00

The Acland Street Safeway is a great place to meet dogs.

Prince the Staffordshire bull terrier is the owner’s pride and joy. He says he got him as a tiny pup, cared for him, trained him and now he has grown into this beautiful and gentle dog. Here he is giving a little yap and a smile of welcome.

I believe that brindle bull terriers are quite rare and I think the cute pup (from a previous posting) that was waiting outside another supermarket is a brindle Staffordshire bull terrier. Check out the posting and see what you think -CLICK HERE

This Australian terrier was eager for a tit-bit - a treat for waiting.

It's good to have a friend to wait with but it can still be an anxious time.

Camberwell Market - Part Two

2008-06-04T00:59:00.000-07:00

The Camberwell Market is held every Sunday and many people take their dogs as they browse the stalls.

These are some of the dogs that were there two Sundays ago. It was a cold and rather bleak day but the sun did peep out occasionally.

Lots of Melbournians rent a stall and sell off the clothing they have become tired of. There are some great bargains

Dogs at the Camberwell Market - Part One

2008-06-01T00:40:00.000-07:00

The Camberwell Market is a great place to be when you’re in Melbourne on a Sunday morning. It’s always crowded and there are great bargains.

Some people leave their dogs outside. This beautiful Labradoodle is going to get plenty of attention - there are very few rubbish bins to use.

There's a lot to get caught up with when you are inside.

Anything and everything is for sale.

But it can get pretty boring when you are a boxer tucked away under a chair.

Dog for Sale - 30% Off

2008-05-29T00:19:00.000-07:00

No. Not really. But it’s not every day you see a dog sitting behind that notice.

The couch looked comfortable and people stopped to look at him/her. I don’t know which. The shop was closed.

He/she appealed to me and I wondered what breed of dog. Does anyone know? She, I will call her She was completely white. She may be of mixed breed. I’m very curious..

Resting at the cafe in the Botanical Gardens

2008-05-24T15:01:00.000-07:00

The Melbourne Botanical Gardens are lovely at this time of the year. In the morning there is a faint mystical mist hanging over the low lying lake. The camellias are coming out. Although if you are a real fan you may want to wait a couple more weeks when there will be more of them.

The café was bathed in sun and it was a resting place for people and dogs.

Rescue dog Cody (CLICK HERE FOR HIS STORY) was eager for his snack

and then he let himself be bathed in the winter sun.

Red is the ‘in’ colour for jackets this year. Red was the predominant colour on the RSPCA’s Millions Paws Walk. Nugget, the Minature Maltese, we met there was wearing a red jacket with a hood but he preferred to wear it down.

These two spaniels were very patient and they were happy to share their water.

If you do decide to walk in the Bot Gardens and finish with a rest at the cafe - check the prices before you order. A coffee and the average sized muffin sets you back $8.00.

Walking is not the only means of transport

2008-05-22T02:32:00.000-07:00

The RSPCA Million Paws Walk – Albert Park

We often need support to help us achieve our goals. I’m sure the goal of all the dogs who entered the RSPCA Million Paws Walk was to complete the circuit.

This support came in variety of forms of transport.

Travelling in a group os often the best way to go

The beautiful black swans on the lake are always worth a look - is that a good excuse for not looking at the camera?

RSPCA Million Paws walk yearly fund raising walk

2008-05-19T02:00:00.000-07:00

On Sunday thousands of paws and feet covered the circuit around the lake in Albert Park. It was a cold, overcast day with a chilly wind and an occasional sprinkling of rain. The weather didn’t deter 16,000 people and 10,000 dogs turning out and registering for the event.

It's very easy to get confused and entangled in the leashes when you are walking together.

This malamute was looking to go in a different direction.

There were dogs of every breed, every shape, every colour, every size and every age walking the lake-lap. There were also activities where dogs could show their skills, I.Q., prowess and ability and where owners could smile and basked in the reflected glory of their canine achieving..

More than $250.00 was raised for the RSPCA - a charity that does a stunning job. I understand that this will go to the shelter and animal care programmes

Not every dog walked the distance as we will see in more detail in my next posting.

Leo the Tenterfield Terrier helps sell The Big Issue

2008-05-16T01:05:00.000-07:00

Herbie and his companion Leo sell The Big Issue around Melbourne. When I met them they were outside David Jones in Bourke Street. Their usual pitch is on the corner of Elizabeth and Collins Street. Leo is 6 years and four months old and they work the pitch together.

It was late afternoon and getting chilly and Leo was well wrapped up.

A Tenterfield Terrier is said to have originated in England. They are small rather like a miniature fox terrier. They are great hunters of rodents as well as making loving family pets. Unlike many dogs they can live to a ripe old age. They have a life span from between 12 and 20 years. So the friendly and delightful Leo has a number of years yet to be out there selling The Big Issue.

You can catch Leo and his Dad, Herbie, on the corner of Collins Street and Elizabeth Streets from 3.00pm to 6.00pm weekdays.

It’s Pugs and more Pugs this week

2008-05-08T15:58:00.000-07:00

I have just been sent these two great photos of Peggy and Roger.

Peter their ‘Dad’ says he had had to send me pictures of Peggy and Roger as they are both friends with Percy the pug CLICK HERE and Cody the ice cream bandit CLICK HERE. I think he may also have seen the friendly Supermarket Pug for my last post. Pugs need to keep together!

Peter says, “ Peggy is the pug from hell, born trouble, and Roger is so casual and cool you would think there was nothing going on up top……there might not be either... “

A friendly pug at the supermarket

2008-05-05T03:57:00.000-07:00

Waiting outside the supermarket can be a very boring thing to do. This rather portly Pug was happy to say hello to anyone who stopped to pass the time of day.

I hoped he didn’t have far to go to reach home. He was panting a bit as he sat there although it wasn’t a very hot day but then I believe that Pugs tend to pant.

He enjoyed being talked to and patted. A very friendly Pug

Border Terrier Fergus with Hannah

2008-04-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

This lovely photo of Fergus and Hannah was sent to me and I love having the chance to show all this love on my blog.

Fergus is a Border Terrier, at this moment he is 11 weeks old. His 'Mum' says, "At the moment he is an absolute pain, as are all puppies, but I am sure he will be a great dog. We got him from the breeder two weeks ago. No idea of house training yet, but he comes with a great name. In the picture, Fergus is getting a little too much love from my grand-daughter Hannah." '

Remember Cairn Terrier Mack arriving in his new home CLICK HERE

Irish Wolfhounds at Queenscliff

2008-04-28T15:06:00.000-07:00

I have had ANZAC Day in Queenscliff. It was a quiet day there but there were some dogs out and about. Queenscliff is a place of large dogs. These two Irish Wolfhounds were the largest we saw and they were very striking as they waited outside one of the shop .Irish Wolfhounds are said to be sweet-tempered, patient, generous, thoughtful and very intelligent. They can be trusted with children. I often wonder if these large dogs realise that they miss all that cuddling that smaller varieties get.

My friend took her dog Maddy who had had her ears operated on and wore a ‘bucket’on her head. She is very camera shy and always turns away when she sees one. We have a lot of photos of her back view.

An Italian Greyhound enjoys time alone.

2008-04-24T02:59:00.000-07:00

An empty shop window is not an ideal place to spend the morning but this Italian greyhound found that a yellow feather left by the previous occupants a good toy . He fought it and tossed it around until it was really ‘dead’.Even a feather has a use-by date. The only other thing of interest was an old sales flier. I thought he was an Italian Greyhound when I was looking at him in the window but, later when I was down-loading my photos, I wasn’t sure. He was full of life and fun and the joy of a yellow feather and of being a ‘doggie in a window’.

A recently shampooed Labradoodle is watched by a friend

2008-04-22T04:18:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I visited the Prahran Market and featured some of the dogs at Pets Indulgence.

That’s the pet shop and groomers at the edge of the market. This Saturday it was drying off time for this Labradoodle.

The Labradoodle is a very popular designer dog. It is a cross between a Labrador retriever and a Poodle.

These patient dogs were waiting in Chapel Street, near the Prahran Market, for coffees to be drunk and the papers read before they could head off again.

R.I.P.

My cat S. died since I wrote my last post which accounts for the gap. She was 18 and I want to say goodbye here amongst all the dogs. She once lived with a dog that she sometimes liked and always tolerated.

She was gentle and loving and sheathed her claws when she played. In her youth she was a good mouser and occasionally caught a rat that she would show off. In latter years she knew the warmest place to sleep and loved the sun. She purred a lot. I miss going to sleep to the sound of a soft purr. She has left a large gap.

Splodge 2008

Mini Schnauser enjoys time in the St Kilda Gardens

2008-04-14T12:49:00.000-07:00

I was in the St Kilda Botanical Gardens this week and found this friendly Schnauzer. She said a cheerful hello to the dogs that walked past. She gave each one a couple of barks – barks of joy? It was a stunning day and I could just hear her saying “Hi! Great day to be out! Woof!! Woof!”

Kyla a Mini Schnauzer barking a greeting.

Kyla, a mini Schnauzer, had her first birthday two weeks ago. Her Mum is a Friend of the Botanical Gardens and is one of a group who strikes cuttings and propagates plants in the old fashioned glasshouse. They are good plants and cheap and the proceeds go to various projects that improve the enjoyment of the gardens.

Kyla had just been washed and groomed when I met her. This photo shows off her beautiful fluffy tail. To be in the Schnauzer fashion stakes the hair on her tail should be cut short but her family like the fluffy end and thinks it balancers her whiskery face.

The gardens were full of people. I like the Melbourne habit of a family picnic with all the generations participating. There were two large groups on Saturday as well as groups of friends with wine and food, a wedding party having photos taken and people walking, reading and watching the passersby.

These fish are in the Tropical House. It is a wonderful place to visit on a cold day.

Out walking in St Kilda

2008-04-09T15:16:00.000-07:00

These two photos are of a couple of things that caught my camera’s eye as I walked during the lovely long summer evenings.

The first one is definitely someone’s whimsy. It is in Alma Park. I thought it was drinking trough. One of those old fashioned ones. Unlikely, as there is no tap near and there is not enough rain for the skies to take on the job of filling it. The other curious thing about it, is the little padlocked section. The dog cut-out is cute and it is this you see as you stroll around the park.

It is unlikely that The Dog Bar is in use but it adds something to a walk along St Kilda Beach.
Wacky, strange and amusing things can be few and far between. It’s good to see some around. If you want to contribute something please do. We need a good grin from time to time.

Guide Dog statues and Maltese Terrier

2008-04-06T04:29:00.000-07:00

When I was out and about photographing the statues of dogs around Melbourne (Check out these blogs CLICK HERE and HERE) I began to notice the statues of dogs used for collecting money for Guide Dogs. They come in all sorts of sizes and conditions but essentially they are all the same.

This one, in my local supermarket, is in good condition. As you can see it has many uses and is serving a useful hitching post to this friendly Maltese Terrier.

I would be interested to know how successful they are as money boxes for the guide dogs. It is my opinion that they fade into the background and need to be painted bright noticeable colours.

The one above is a little shabby and sits in the entrance isle of a very busy supermarket. He or she tends to disappear into the wall.

They do reflect the image of the most usual breed of guide dogs – golden Labradors. I believe the first guides dogs were Labradors and there are many in training at the moment . There one learning these important skills in my blogs Dogs at the Lavender Harvest Festival CLICK HERE

If anyone knows how successful they are as collection boxes do let me know.

The Dog Wash- Saturday Morning.

2008-03-30T03:33:00.000-07:00

Pets Indulgence Dog Wash is behind the Prahan Market. Saturday morning is a busy day but Colin Andrews, the owner, tells me that as it is school holidays some of his regulars are out of town.

You can walk down the side alleyway to get there or pop in from the market as it flows through from the market.

The beautifully groomed pale cream Golden Retriever, Indiana, belongs to Colin. He walks quietly around and overseas everything. The other dogs are waiting for their owners.

Mollie the poodle (she’s the black sleeping one) and Charlie in their stylish dog fashions have been dropped off by their owners while they shop in the market. Mollie sleeps but Charlie dosen’t look too happy about it.

I plan to go back in a couple of weeks, when the school term has begun, to do an up-date on the Pets Indulgence Dog Wash.

Out running with a cyclist

2008-03-26T03:06:00.000-07:00

Olivia is a Daschund and Jack Russell cross and everyday she trots beside her Mum’s bike as they set off to the park in Brunswick. She’s often out in front and looks as if she is pulling the bike.

She’s eleven years old and her Mum says she is very fit because she gets so much exercise. She’s full of life and is interested in everything around her. She used to have a running mate but her friend died last year so she now trots off alone.

Dogs in cars

2008-03-23T01:36:00.001-07:00

When I first spotted this little dog his Dad was about to back into a park in Carlisle Street. He pulled up and I managed to get the photo. Later I saw them driving in an easterly direction with those beautiful floppy ears flying back in the breeze. It was a hot day and I'm sure the breeze felt good.

I was reminded of one of my favourite dog pictures. These two dogs gave me a lot amusement as I travelled behind them on Hoddle Street.

We were eye-ball to eye-ball for some time and I'm sure they spent time looking at me and possibly making judgements.

Dog cafes - Japan

2008-03-17T19:45:00.000-07:00

This link to a dog cafe didn't work when I first put it up. I have sorted out the problem so take a look. Japan would've been the one of the last places I would've expected to see a special place for dogs to hang out.

Check out this site about dogs cafes in Japan - it's not such a new idea! CLICK HERE

My Dog Cafe - dogs eating out

2008-03-14T23:41:00.000-07:00

Melbourne's Fashionable Dog Cafe

This is Station Pier in Port Melbourne - To get to the cafe head for The Spirit of Tasmania and then make a right.

It's right on the edge of the sea and the view is stunning.

Your dogs can order from their own menu. There are these delights but also a dog biscuit snack if it doesn't seem the right time for a meal.

The breakfasts at the cafe are great for dog Mums and Dads and they serve some of the best muffins around.

There's sea everywhere but there's plenty of drinking water.

Dalmations dining at the cafe.

The seating is comfortable and at a good height.

This Pug enjoyed a snack stop

I hope you get the idea from the pictures!

This is a great place to eat if you like dog watching.

Does anyone know of any other cafes that focus on dogs and arrange their seating and menus so they have a good time?

16/08/2009 - Sadly this cafe appears to have closed - I enjoyed my visits there - see my new post on the cafe.

Akita - A large dog in Acland Street

2008-03-11T23:29:00.000-07:00

This morning was a beautiful autumn morning with a slight nip in the air and a promise of a hot afternoon to come. Acland Street, St Kilda, was busy with locals and visitors.

As I wove my way through the crowd I got a slight push from behind, only a slight push but it was definitely a nudge to get me out of the way.

I turned and my eyes met this large bear-like brindle-coloured dog. “I’m sorry,” said the owner and they strode past me.

I raced to catch up.

“Can I take a photo of your dog,” I asked waving my camera at the ready. “I haven’t seen one like him before. What breed?”

“He’s an Akita Wolf Hound,” said the man holding the lead. He stopped and the large dog paused with him. “I’m in a bit of a hurry. Can you be quick?” I pointed the camera.

Two quick snaps and they were on their way. They maneuvered their way through the crowd with the dog in front and I suspect still giving gentle nudges.

I saw them again about 30mins later at an ATM but they were still in a hurry.

I checked out the breed and Akita appears to be a breed on its own. Perhaps this one has been crossed with a Wolf Hound. The only difference I saw in him from the picture on the Internet is his tail. Akitas seem to have tightly curled tails.

See the tails in these two pictures and the picture of the Japanese statue.

The breed originates in Japan and this is what one breeder says about them.

‘Akitas are most striking and impressive creatures with an attitude of nobility and an appearance of strength and power. Their most noticeable physical characteristic is a large, bear-like head with erect, triangular ears set at a slight angle following the arch of the neck. They have thick, stand-offish coats, and tight cat feet, well knuckled up. Their tails curl over the top of the back in a graceful sweep down the loin, into a gentle curl, or into a double curl. Their colors are rich and clear, like paint on a canvas.’

You may like to read the story that prompted this statue which is in front of the Odate Station in Japan.

For the Japanese, the most famous Akita is the Chuken Hachiko, which means “loyal Hachiko”, but he is usually referred to as Hachiko.

Hachiko, a white male Akita, was born in Odate, Akita Prefecture in November 1923. Two months old, he was sent to the home of Professor Eizaburo Ueno in Tokyo. The Professor named the puppy Hachi and called him Hachiko. At that time, Professor Ueno’s residence was in a suburb of Tokyo in the vicinity of Shibuya Station, and he used the train from that station to the agricultural experimental station in Nishihara where he worked.

May 21, 1925, Hachiko was at Shibuya Station as usual, waiting for his master’s arrival on the four o’clock train. However, Dr. Ueno would not return this time since he tragedly had suffered a stroke and had died at the university. Hachiko was by then eighteen months old. The next day and for the next nine years, Hachiko returned to the station and waited for his beloved master before walking home, alone. Hachiko was sent to homes of relatives or friends, but he always continued to await his master, who was never to return, at the train station.

Nothing and no one could discourage Hachiko from maintaining his nightly vigil. It was not until he followed his master in death, in March l934, at the age of 11 years and 4 months, that Hachiko failed to appear in his place at the railroad station.

The fidelity of Hachiko was known throughout Japan, owing to an article, “Faithful Old Dog Awaits Return of Master Dead for Seven Years” in the October 4, 1933 issue of Asahi Shinbun (Asahi News. Upon his death, newspaper stories led to the suggestion that a statue be erected at the station. Contributions from the United States and other countries were received. Today, the statue of Hachiko, pays a silent tribute to the breed’s faithfulness and loyalty. A bronze statue of Hachiko was erected in 1934 at his waiting spot outside the Shibuya railroad station, which is now probably the most popular rendezvous point in Tokyo. Hachiko was mounted and stuffed and is on now on display at the Tokyo Museum of Art.During the World War II, the statue was melted down to help the Japanese military. A new statue was returned to the Shibuya station in 1947. Another statue of Hachiko, although not equally well known, is erected in front of the Odate station. This statue was erected in 1935. It too, was melted down during World War II and was re-erected in 1987.

Dog watching in Glen Huntly Road Elsternwick

2008-03-10T00:17:00.000-07:00

These decorative seats are placed along the strip and make a great place for tethering your loving pet while you shop.

Rosie

I was lucky to meet Rose’s owner. The children in the family entertain Rosie after school and she generally gets a walk to the shops during the day. When I meet her she was eager to get home and welcome the younger members of the family back to the nest.

This Cavalier King Charles spaniel reminds me so much of my dog Goldie. She had short hair except for her ears where there was a fringe of long hair. She came to us as a Rescue Dog. She was roaming the streets with no one claiming her. We took her from the local Dog Pound where they said they thought she was a Brussell-Griffon X. I hadn’t heard of the breed. Some years later while we were walking we met a man who said just the same thing. His mother had breed Russell-Griffons. To me this face is the face I renmember.

They are beautiful ears.

These two are keeping their eyes on the shop in front of them. They don't want to miss anything.

Close of Day, Melbourne - Rescue Dog Cody

2008-03-06T00:36:00.000-08:00

At the end of the day when games are over, TV watched, the children tucked into bed and the stories read, tranquility settles on the home.

Is it the same when a dog sleeps?

Remember Cody? You can catch up with him here

and here

Cody has walked, met friends, played, eaten dinner and succumbed to sleep.

This is a picture of ease and a life well lived.

The world is at peace. "An open eye is enough. There is no need to get up."

Leopold the Maltese/Jack Russell cross

2008-03-01T18:12:00.000-08:00

Leopold at Work

It’s late summer here in Melbourne but over the last week the weather turned cold and we had some rain.

The day I saw Leopold was a day to get out the wet weather gear. Leopold was sitting outside his owner’s shop, Arbor Redux, dressed in his oil skin coat for the cold and the wet day.

He is so cute he was stopping the passing foot traffic.

Leopold is a 15 monh old Jack Russell/ Maltese X. His ‘Mum’ Greta owns Shop 12 Sparta Place, which is at 459 Sydney Road, Brunswick. It's a charming shop that sells creative local and imported designer jewelry at very affordable prices.

Leopold is not a designer dog. Greta said she wanted a “a mongrelly-looking dog” . For a while she searched through dog shelters but didn’t find a dog that actually ‘spoke’ to her.

One day she saw a picture of Leopold on Trading Post and knew he was the dog she wanted. Leopold is the runt and not as fluffy as the other Maltese/Jack Russell pups in the litter but he was just what Greta was looking for.

Every day is not a work day for Leopold. Some days he stays home with the other resident dog at his house. Greta’s house-mate has an eight year old Staffy X who is very patient with the younger and more playful Leopold.

I’m sure when he’s at work, in the front of the shop, he draws the crowd and he is very happy to pose for photos.

If you are passing Sparta Place at 459 Sydney Street turn in there and see if you can see him taking the sun or watching from the people as they come into the shop.

It's very easy to nod off for a little nap when the sun's out.

Cairn Terrier Mack attends dog training

2008-02-27T01:54:00.000-08:00

Remember Mack? - You can check here and on this one

Mack started obedience school a couple of weeks ago. His Mum says,

“Just to show he felt it would be wasted on him, we came home from work to find he had climbed up onto the dining room table, located our new map book open at the page of the obedience school, ripped that page and surrounding pages out, and destroyed them.

Then he waited till I served up dinner on the table and just like magic the phone rang.

Mack wasted not a second in climbing up again and dragging the pile of pasta, Bolognese sauce and cheese off the plate. WOW!!

But obedience school was a blast after all – with about 60 + dogs arriving to register and join classes at levels from puppy school to competition performance tuition. Dogs, dogs, dogs of all shapes and sizes – spread out in classes across a large field and around the outside of the fence-line.

Mack was not surprised he found lots of new friends and he can’t wait for the next week to roll around. But Dad was the only owner in Mack’s class who forgot to take any treats – so they will be paying some dogs back next week….”

We are here to socialise, aren’t we?

Is the teacher interesting or would I rather investigate the shoe?

Mack is supposed to be next round the slalom of cones but this big fellow looks more interesting

Did Mack say "Look at me!?"

Mack is going to continue at obedience school. We'll keep watch on his progress.

Dogs spending time at the supermarket

2008-02-24T03:34:00.000-08:00

I had other ideas for this post but then I saw this little darling waiting eagerly beside the trolleys at my local super market. I’m sure he’s a young bull terrier. Is a brindle bull terrier rare? I’ve only seen black and brown.

When I came out he was still there but he had become more relaxed about the wait. He’s almost asleep on his feet.

If you’re not tied to the trolleys the next best thing is an advertising sign.

Dog sculptures, Gasworks Park -Melbourne

2008-02-20T13:25:00.000-08:00

Not with out Chomley

This group, cast in bronze by Ann Ross in 1991, is at the Richardson Street entrance to Gasworks Park in Port Melbourne.

There are two sculptures here - a sort of set piece. The man has a dog standing on his back and another dog with his tail stuck jauntily in air, facing the other way.

My take on this is that it is the same dog both times. However the man and dog are heading in a different direction from the single dog.

The dogs are great, the sort of dogs with those perky tails that wag at any moment.

Man Dog, Boat by Henry Smith 1995

The sculpture is made out of fiberglass, wood stainless steel and aluminum and all painted a yellow-ochre. It sits on top of a pole that looks like a weathered wooden lamppost. It's positioned on the traffic island at the corner of Graham and Pickles Street, outside Gasworks Park, Port Melbourne.

The man appears to be rowing away from the sea in an east-west direction. It is a strange statue because it is above your sight-line if you are driving past.

It’s the dog I love – poised in the bow peering ahead and ready to jump when they get to wherever they are going.

Living with your new dog, Mack Cairn Terrier

2008-02-18T01:52:00.000-08:00

Mack's Mum has sent me some photos and an up-date on Life with their dog Mack. See my blog Cairn terrier finds a home.

Bobby

"To update you on Mack – who rules our lives lately.

Mack is enjoying life and we are too as we climb the steep learning curve of being competent dog Mum and Dad. Luckily Mack met Bobby in the park at the end of our street. Bobby lives just the other side of the park and is a handsome, well-behaved, gentleman - an 8 year old Cairn. They hit it off immediately! Bobby's Mum is a very experienced and knowledgeable dog trainer who kindly took the time to come with Bobby and his Dad to Mack’s house for afternoon tea.

Mack and Bobby played happily while Bobby's Mum gave us lots of ideas for food, grooming and healthcare. You can see that Bobby's Mum has clipped Bobby so he is comfortably cool over summer. His coat looks like ivory silk. His Mum said that when he was little he was identical in colouring to Mack. Cairns change colour as they grow up, and it isn’t always easy to tell how they will end up. Just shows what interesting dogs Cairns are!

Mack is not keen on getting up at 6 am for a walk on my two work days. Those days are a reluctant crawl around the block. He prefers my days at home when he now has a leisurely breakfast (like Bobby) of yoghurt and an “Original” Tux biscuit, followed by a little snooze. Then he is ready to set out for about an hour at approx 8.00 am, after Dad goes to work.

We walk through several trails of parkland in this suburb and then on to the Stebbings Dam where these days Mack gets to run off the lead and chase and fetch balls – as long as there aren’t any big dogs around at the time. He cools off with a swim in the dam before we head for home. He does it all again – or similar – after tea, with Dad. Tonight he supervised while we picked blackberries."

We will hear more of Mack adapting to life with his new Mum and Dad. He has just begun Obedience School.

Larry La Trobe - dog sculpture, Melbourne

2008-02-16T03:25:00.000-08:00

I have been talking about the dogs that are out and about in Melbourne and beyond so I thought it was time to feature some statues of dogs that can be found around the city.

The first one is:-

Larry La Trobe

He stands at the corner of Swanson and Collins Street. He is about 70cms high and was cast in bronze by Pamela Irving in 1992.

We are looking at the second Larry La Trobe here, as the first Larry went walk-about in 1995. There was a public out cry but he was never found and neither did he find his way home.

A year later he was recast and has remained on the corner ever since.

He is cuddled by children and gets light kisses on his noise for good luck. Weary tourists and locals take a rest on him and he is always posing for a photo.

Why the name Larry La Trobe? I haven’t been able to find that out.

Lucy the Elegant Poodle

2008-02-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

Lucy is a glamorous five year old standard poodle who lives in Wellington, New Zealand. Her ‘Mum’ sent me her pictures and wrote this about her.

“Lucy loves long walks up the steep Wellington hills. She has made a friend of Mack, the Cairn terrier (see my blog Cairn Terrier Finds a New Home ) and they spend time playing together in the park.

She is always beautifully groomed. Even though she’s not keen on the idea she goes to the beautician regularly to keep her coat and nails trimmed.”

Lucy’s Mum says she is a great companion and that she is very intelligent.

"She loves to sleep on the large bed rather than her own bed and she moves the pillows around to suit where she wants to lay her head."

You can see how comfortable she is in the photo.

Like most poodles she’s very social and always attends her Mum’s parties and likes to personally greet the guests and keeps an eye on everyone.

Lucy on her lawn watching the neighbours.

How green are the New Zealand lawns compared with the dried-up Melbourne version?

The standard poodle is said to be very adaptable and their intelligence makes them easy to train. They can live very happily in an apartment block, suburban home or on a farm. They have a dense coat and generally they don’t shed.

If you are into poodles this maybe a site you would like to check out. There are some stunning photographs and as you scroll through you'll find that there are some wonderful shots of poodles.

Australian Terrier Dog Rides a Scooter

2008-02-07T17:34:00.000-08:00

Rosie an 8 month old Australin terrier and her owner ride the Melbourne Streets on his motorized scooter.

Rosie was the runt of the litter and she is still tiny. She arrived at her new home when she was 6 weeks old. At 7 weeks the dog was riding the scooter.

Rosie and her owner live in an apartment in St Kilda and head to the park on the scooter every morning. When they get there and Rosie is given ‘the word’ she leaps off and races around the park. She also trots on the lead beside the scooter as it goes very slowly along the paths. Another ‘word’ and she jumps back to sit in ‘her place’.

After a good run they stop off for coffee and a drink of water before they head for home. When the weather’s right they travel further a field. Rosie’s owner says that having a dog has changed his life.

He bought the scooter so he could take her out and they go further and further a field. Rosie shows all the intelligence that Australian terriers are renowned. While I watched I could see she completely understood what was expected of her. She is very disciplined and it was a joy to watch her.

St Kilda Gym Dogs- Melbourne

2008-02-01T01:05:00.000-08:00

Dogs waiting at the Gym

Over the last few weeks I have taken pictures of the dogs that wait at the gym.

They wait patiently for an hour or more.

They are undercover so they are out of the weather and water is supplied by the kindly gym staff so it is reasonably comfortable.

I’m always amazed that they are:-

Patient
Quiet – no barking of whining
Never take exception to a dog waiting beside them.

I guess Melbourne dogs have learned to be tolerant of their fellow canines.

This lovely spaniel is showing us that patience can be taken too far and she is ready to go.

This dear little soul is often waiting and just sits staring straight ahead.

My dog, Cham, the sportsman (see my profile) often took against another dog and was very happy to get into a skirmish.

Cham

Cham taught me that dog fights tended to go in circles. To catch your dog's tail and haul it out of the fight you have to go round with them.

This happened to me, Cham, a Fox terrier and and the terrier’s owner in the beautiful Lady Norwood Rose Garden in Wellington New Zealand. We, the owners, finally parted our dogs and we left the scene heading in different directions and dragging our snarling dogs behind us.

A white Labrador waits by an old fashioned bike.

2008-01-27T22:48:00.000-08:00

We saw the bike first.

Then we noticed the Labrador dog lying beside it.

I used to ride a bike just like this one, to school. I even had the lamp and the bell in the front as well as a carrier on the back.

The beautiful silver/white Labrador was sleeping when we stopped but as we chatted about the bike he opened his eyes and lifted his head. He didn’t make any effort to stand up and he didn’t show any interest in us. He didn’t appear to care whether we patted him or not.

But he had noticed us because when we moved away he flopped back into a sleeping position.

Labradors are said to be the most popular dog in the world – certainly in the Western world. If this is the case it is surprising that I don’t see many more in Melbourne.

Labradors are usually black, brown or a rich gold colour so it was unexpected to see this beautiful silvery/white one.

Cairn terrier finds a home

2008-01-25T00:55:00.000-08:00

These photos of Mack, a cute Cairn terrier puppy, were sent to me from New Zealand. He is this household’s first dog and he has a gold fish to thank for finding him a new home.

The shopping expedition was to buy a replacement goldfish. A dog didn’t enter his new owners’ thoughts as they drove to the pet shop. But there was Mack, waiting. Messages went between them and they all fell in love.

Mack spoke to them.

They bought the goldfish and the next day returned for Mack.

They say he’s very intelligent and very friendly and is trying hard to do what is required of him. He’s coming on well and getting the toilet training together.

He has to fit into a household that has two well established cats – a challenge for him and the cats. It will be interesting to see how the pecking order is worked out.

I’m betting the cats will be on top.

Mack became very excited when he found that there was some new paving to be put down. When he saw the shovel and the digging began he barked and danced around waiting for a rabbit or a rat to materialize. Then he carefully examined each paver as it was laid, making sure it was done properly.

Mack is great fun and has found a place in his new owners' hearts. It has yet to be seen if the cats will take him to their hearts.

My post on January 2nd talks about choosing a dog. It's called Percy the Pug.

Toy Poodles in St Kilda

2008-01-23T22:01:00.000-08:00

Muffin and Rosie, two beautiful and very lively miniature poodles, were out early to beat the rising summer heat in St Kilda.

At this time of day the sun casts long shadows. So long they nearly stretched all the way to Acland Street where the dogs were headed.

Best friends now, they came from two different poodle breeders. Members of Rosie’s family were all named after Elvis Presley and his family. Her father was Elvis and the breeder named Rosie, Priscilla. Her new owners wanted Rosie and Rosie suites her.

Muffin came from a family where everyone is named after cakes. Her parents are Jam Roll and Strawberry Cake and her real name is Strawberry Muffin.

Muffin and Rosie watch the action

Dogs in Waiting-Poodles

2008-01-20T00:57:00.000-08:00

Dogs in Melbourne spend a lot of time waiting.

Waiting in the arcade outside the supermarket gave this poodle a lot to look at.

Bikes stands are good places to be attached to.

This rather nervous poodle was outside the St Kilda Library

I'm sure she was thinking something like this.

"I'm a beautiful minature poodle yet you've tied me up amongst all this mess. Why doesn't some one keep the place clean?"

Rescue Dog - Botanical Gardens, Melbourne

2008-01-17T17:58:00.001-08:00

I introduced you to Cody as a rescue dog in the post I wrote on the 22nd of December 2007 . I met him again in the Botanical Gardens café. He walks there once a week and finishes off with an ice cream.

(Above) You can see how eager he is for the ice cream to be purchased and brought to him!

His flavour is vanilla but if anyone else has any left he'll lick down any flavour.

Cody has come a long way since he was a resident in a cage at Safe-A-Dog scheme.

My Favourite Lavender Farm dog

2008-01-13T13:55:00.001-08:00

Charlie

I decided to crop Charlie's photo so we could really see him. I liked seeing him in his setting (see previous blog) but his face is so sweet I couldn't resist giving you a close-up of him.

Dogs at the Lavender Harvest Festival

2008-01-13T03:21:00.001-08:00

Today was the Lavender Harvest Festival near Daylesford
Some of the dogs were visitors but some were part of the festival.

My favourite is Charlie who’s owner was looking after a stall. He was guarding her book and alert to everyone going past.

The sun was out making a beautiful dappled pattern making it a cool place to wait.

The old black dog had to be the resident dog. He wandered around by himself and flopped down where ever he liked.

Some of us were out training. This energetic young Lab is training to be a guide dog. He would not sit still for his photo.

Reeb the Boxer

2008-01-10T19:31:00.000-08:00

Reeb was out for a walk before the 40 degree heat descended on the city. It was early in the morning but it hadn’t reached the maximum. When I meet her she was heading for a drink in The Talbot Reserve.

She is a Western European Boxer and very friendly. I haven’t heard of these dogs before and I understand that they have shorter hair and don’t dribble as much as Boxers usually do. I have tried to find them on the Internet but I haven’t been able to. You may know more about them and be able to add more info.

Reeb did sit for a moment and allow me to take her photo but like all of us she was eager to get home. The shadows in the park are from the early morning sun but they give the photo a look of being taken in the late afternoon. The shadows were very pronounced perhaps it was the heat.

I am trying to increase my photography skills. I’m not finding my photos of the dogs as successful as I would like. Any hints.