Oh my goodness we've had Monty two whole months now!

[MsAdorabelleDearheartVonLipwig]

Can you believe it? He's doubled in size. He's such a handsome boy.

I did have a bit of a wobble a couple of weeks ago. It was six months since we lost Barney and I felt so guilty. But that's not Monty's fault. He's a lovely little dog.

We've done a bit of puppy training and he's doing ever so well. And I'm very pleased to report that he appears to be house trained. He went back to his breeders for a couple of days while we were away and came back and hasn't peed in the house once since. I'm very impressed. That took four weeks! Fingers crossed it continues.

For all you guys that are bereaved and missing your hounds, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Whenever you're ready, there's another little snuffly puppy waiting for you. Although I still miss my clever devoted old boy I luffs this little chap. He's fast turning into my little shadow. And he loves the kids! Barney never really liked children and would slink off but Monty adores them. They cuddle him and play with him and he follows them about. I'm so glad that they're finally getting to see how rewarding it is to have a dog.

Going pretty well so far.

[EdwinaLIzzard]

Monty is so handsome, what a beautiful boy.

He is doing incredibly well, you must be very proud of him. I guess he will be more a 'family' dog as he has grown up with your children - but Barney will always have that very special place in your heart as your dog.

Do you find that you are stopped every 20 paces or so when he is out for a walk, lab pups are so adorable. I am very guilty of always wanting to stop and speak to new puppies, they are just irresistible!

[punter]

I feel a kindred spirit here, we lost our Barney almost 3 years ago now, a Battersea rescue, hit my DH particularly hard. Within a few days we were looking at breeders for a lab puppy. Monty arrived 2 1/2 years ago - golden lab - so pleased we got him, could not bear an empty house. Barney is not forgotten, like you, but you can love more than one dog. Love your puppy, makes me wonder if ......

[MsAdorabelleDearheartVonLipwig]

Aww, another Barney and Monty. Kindred spirit indeed!

There's always room for another puppy...

[BurningBridges]

He's gorgeous!

[MsAdorabelleDearheartVonLipwig]

He had his first trip to the beach today. He was such a good boy! Mooched around, played with the kids, lazed on the blanket with us, a really good boy. One small hairy moment when he ran off after an elderly terrier but as it wasn't on the lead I didn't immediately worry. Owners grabbed him by the collar and practically marched him to me. I did apologise but they didn't look too cross. I did go after him and I had the long line with me but he seemed so good I thought I'd let him enjoy himself.