Allow me to introduce the latest addition to our once-quiet and carefree household. Mickie is a schnoodle. Yeah, that’s right, a schnoodle. She’s a schnauzer/poodle mix. Forgoing boring commands like sit or fetch, I’ve already trained her to go straight for the jugular so don’t belittle her or me.
It’s been a couple of decades since I’ve had a puppy and my son is 9 so, naturally, I forgot what a challenge the first few weeks could be like with a very dependent creature. Throw in about 2 feet of snow, 2 kittens and a household that is, shall we say, unaccustomed to the way of the dog and you can easily imagine the sitcomesque possibilities. Some might say we’re about one goldfish short of “Jersey Shore”. Not me, I think it’s 2 goldfish and a rabid hamster until someone gets hurt.
Nevertheless, Mickie is settling in nicely. Our cats, Sueño (aka Clooney) and Miss Mittens the Avenger, who are ridiculously affectionate, have warmed quickly to Mickie. So happy for any kind of attention, Sueño gladly rolls over and allows Mickie to chew on him. If puppies and kittens can get along so well, I have to think there’s hope for us all.
Now that it’s warmed up to 10 degrees, I’m going to Nanook up and go for a walk with Mickie all the while cajoling her to poop or walk in a absurdly sing-song voice and love every minute of it.
BTW, if you’re in the market for a pooch of your own, I highly recommend Mickie’s breeder, eSchnoodles, in Caledonia, Minnesota. Good folk who make good dogs.
show hide 5 comments
Brittney - So cute! We’re suckers for small dogs with ridiculous breed names (chi-weenie anyone?)
AM - Mark,
I just stumbled across your work in my search for a wedding “photo-ninja” as you so aptly put it. I love your stuff, and from the associated verbage on your site, I suspect we would get along famously. Thus, I am heartbroken that you’re apparently booked on Oct. 2. Foiled again! Should something change, though , and you miraculously become available, give me a holler. I would love to give you some business. Best wishes, Ann
AM - Mark, I just stumbled across your work in my search for a wedding “photo-ninja” as you put it. I love your stuff and from the associated verbage on your site, I suspect we would get along famously. Thus, I am heartbroken that you’re apparently booked on Oct. 2. Foiled again! Should something change, though, and you miraculously become available, give me a holler. Best wishes, Ann
wilsonhoff - Adding to the nobility of the breed, the schnoodle once served as the primary source of sled dog power in Northern Minnesota. Giant caravans, hundreds of schnoodles strong, pulling sleds commandeered by voyageurs were regular sights during the French fur trading era two centuries ago.
Yes, you’ve made a fine choice for a dog, Mark. This does not surprise me one bit.
Welcome to the cult of the schnoodle, my friend. It’s warm in here.
Randy - Dude… I can’t believe you finally posted photos! I actually more shocked at how well they all get along. I’m usually not a sucker for animal photos, but damn, these kids are cute!