I have a little puppy

For the past year, I have had the privilege of being "mommy" to a little Maltipoo pup. She loves her bones, treats, running around outdoors (especially collecting leaves!!), snuggles, fetch, and just being with people.

A bond between dog and man is quite a phenomenal thing. My puppy knows when to expect me home. She is waiting by my door when I come home. She knows when my dad is coming home. She waits at the top of the stairs, or on the couch watching diligently. She can sit, stay, and shake. She loves getting and receiving kisses. Belly rubs and scratches behind the ears are some of her favorites.

She doesn't like her crate at all. She needs it for car rides, so ultimately she isn't a huge fan of car rides. She doesn't like sleeping anywhere besides next to her owners. The piano, she either loves or hates. I can't tell what her howling means yet. Baths ... she isn't a fan of those at all.

One of my favorite things about my "baby squidgey" is the bond she has with my "baby squeezy" aka "baby sister."

I have a little sister and the bond the two of them share is unbreakable. My sisters have had a year of practice as this whole "aunt" thing because baby puppy is "baby niece." I often tell my puppy "Let's go up to the aunties' house!"

Mona. Mona is my baby squidgey's "Real name" but we don't often use it. My little sister is just learning how to say 2 syllable words. Mona has been called "Momo" and most recently, what melts my heart, is the little voice saying "No-ma."

My puppy is so patient with little hands. She will sit and "be rocked" on the couch watching movies. She will be wrapped in a blanket and be carried around. She has too often been picked up upside down and carried.

She is so patient. She never bits, nips, or scratches the youngsters she is around.

I remember when they first met. There was jumping, and kicking, and then not wanting to a thing to do with each other. It has been incredible watching their bond strengthen. The squeal of "MONA!" when the pup goes running through the door and into the hands of the baby sister is quite a testimony. 

I am really excited to see the bond baby puppy will form with the littles who will inhabit her territory. There is a little bit of hesitation as I know small dogs and children aren't an ideal mix. With careful supervision, and clear boundaries, as well as some time and patience, I am sure "No-ma" will win the hearts of many and bring a comfort that no man can offer.