Dreamsickle at Six Weeks

 As is our way. When a litter reaches six week of age we feel that we can evaluate the pups knowing most of what we are looking at. For this we use a pseudo objective six point set of criteria which takes into account the American Kennel Club description of the breed (five points of physicality). And we assign one point which is purely subjective and takes into account beauty of coloring, form, and personality. This six point evaluation has served us well since we started using it nearly twenty years ago. At the time we began using the system those people interested in reserving a puppy would receive the information prior to choosing, but now this is much more of a formality since pups are usually chosen prior to six weeks. This is certainly true of this litter.

This litter of eight pups is the first for our Lilly (Dulce DeLeche AKC) and the third for our younger male Rocky (Rocketdog Rockford Rhoades AKC). The first litter for a female is difficult to predict any outcomes but, at six weeks old, there's ample reason to believe this will be a great litter. Rocky is a great male in the American Basset Hound style. We are trying to breed a smaller form of Basset and, though he carries the genes of a smaller dame (under fifty pounds and quite small), he is nearly sixty pounds at three years old and so is not a small Basset. Lilly is a small form female of thirty-five pounds and so some of her offspring should be smaller in size as adults. Only time will tell. Both parents are great examples of the breed and so we expect this litter will carry these great traits as they grow. Both have exceptionally long ears, we formed heads with thick necks and bodies which taper perfectly to their strong hips. Neither appear to be destined to hip troubles. Both have heavy foreleg bones and deep chests. This litter carries the right stuff and none of the pups will receive less than the full five AKC derived points for form. There is simple nothing wrong with any of them.

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Dreamsickle is another of our smaller form Bassets. He is rambunctious and eager to explore his world; the type needing a back yard and a playmate. He is a bit barky when playing and not overy patient with being held. This is an independent personality which can, at times, keeps to himself happily. Every puppy of this litter are quite good when compared to the AKC standard and Dreamsickle is no different. His foreleg bones are adequately heavy, his paws tell us he will likely be slightly smaller than the standard size in the American Basset style. He will likely grow into a robust fifty pound male, but this depends on exercise and restricting his diet somewhat is a good idea, especially after he is neutered.  Dreamsickle might be bred to a high quality female if rights are secured. 

Dreamsickle is quite the family dog in attitude and he will make a fine addition to any family lucky enough to have him, but the patience or personality to win at show doesn't seem to be his forte.  He will do well with children.