Mohr Bouviers

This time of the year brings a longing for beautiful spring days. Here in the Northeast we are imagining leaves taking bud on the trees and bulbs pushing through the ground to deliver a beautiful array of color. Now reality breaks through and we realize we have another few weeks of winter before our hopes for spring can be realized.

But I have a few suggestions that you can do with your Bouvier to help clear your head and give you something to focus on besides waiting for Spring.

• Look into getting your Bouvier involved in “Canine Good Citizen Program.” You can find out further information on this program by visiting www.akc.org.
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  For those who are admitted “Geeks” try your hand at Geocaching with your Bouvier. I know you are all familiar with Hussi and Kory (feel free to visit their Geocaching profile page) well I am told Hussi has become quite good at Geocaching. The fun thing is it is free, and who doesn’t love free. It gets you out of the house and gives you some bonding time with your Bouvier.
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  Bouviers make wonderful Therapy Dogs and there are Therapy Groups in every town. You will need to show proof of vaccination, negative heart worm test, the dog must be clean and well groomed and be able to sit, down and stay on command to pass the test. To find a Therapy Group in your area check with the local Kennel Club or Vet’s Office. Therapy Dogs can work in Hospitals, Schools, Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Homes and Hospice to name a few. It is a special bonding time with your Bouvier and is a way of giving back to the community by making a difference in someone’s life.
• For those of you who have a competitive streak check out Agility and Herding Competitions. Bouviers are natural herders and can be very quick on their feet. Here’s a short video of Hussi jumping an agility-type fence on command. Then there is the undeniable fact, the Bouvier is very smart. So put that brain to use by figuring out the quickest way around the agility course or getting the geese to move in the right direction.

If none of these suggestions fit your lifestyle you can also just enjoy the company of a warm soul who is happy just to be near you. And who of us could ask for anything more.