Stepping into Spring: A 5-Mile Loop Around Moor Row with Bella

With the nicer weather finally just around the corner, it is the perfect excuse to start stretching out the legs and increasing the daily mileage. This morning, Bella – who is turning two this June and absolutely full of energy – and I, headed out for a solid 5-mile loop right from our doorstep in Moor Row.

Our route took us out along Dalzell Street, picking up Cycle Route 72, before looping up past Bigrigg and Linethwaite via High House Road. At 10°C with the sun just starting to break through the clouds, it was absolutely ideal walking weather. We kept a nice, steady rhythm, averaging just over a 20-minute mile, and conquered a fair bit of local elevation along the way – there is a surprisingly persistent climb up towards Linethwaite that certainly gets the heart rate going!

It took us just over an hour and forty minutes to complete the circuit, getting almost 10,000 steps in before lunchtime. It is brilliant to see the West Cumbrian countryside starting to wake up for spring, and Bella thoroughly enjoyed sniffing her way around the familiar fields and lanes. If this morning's trek is anything to go by, we are in for a fantastic summer of walking.

Walk Analysis

Route & Distance: A very tidy 5.00-mile circular route starting and ending in Moor Row. The path took me west along Dalzell Street, following Cycle Route 72, before looping north towards Bigrigg and Linethwaite, and finally heading back down High House Road.

Effort & Heart Rate: This was a brilliant base-building exercise. My heart rate averaged 94 bpm and peaked at 126 bpm, keeping me squarely in the low-aerobic zone. This steady effort resulted in a solid calorie burn of 597 total calories (448 active).

Elevation: It wasn't entirely flat – I tackled 131 metres of total ascent. The elevation profile heading towards Linethwaite, reached a maximum elevation of 125 metres before a sharp descent back towards Moor Row.

Conditions: At 10°C with partly sunny skies, it was near-perfect weather for a brisk Cumbrian morning walk.

The Long Game: Building Rock-Solid Recall with a Hyperactive Cocker Spaniel

For anyone who's ever welcomed a bouncy, enthusiastic Cocker Spaniel into their life, you'll know that "calm" isn't usually the first word that springs to mind. Our Bella is no exception. This gorgeous girl is full of beans, her tail a permanent blur, and her nose constantly twitching with the promise of adventure. While this zest for life is one of the things we adore about her, it does present its own set of training challenges – particularly when it comes to recall.

Like many dog owners, a reliable recall is top of our priority list. The thought of Bella happily bombing off after a particularly interesting smell (and there are many in our neighbourhood!) fills me with dread. So, we've been diligently working on her "come" command and whistle response, and I wanted to share a little about our journey so far.

Our secret weapon? The humble 30ft training lead. This has been an absolute game-changer in providing Bella with the freedom to explore a little further while still maintaining a crucial line of communication (literally!). It allows us to practice recall in a more realistic outdoor setting without the anxiety of her disappearing over the horizon.

The process has been gradual, and definitely not without its moments of comedic chaos (think a tangle of lead around my legs more times than I care to admit!). We started in quieter, enclosed areas, using high-value treats and enthusiastic praise every time Bella responded to her name, the verbal cue, or the whistle. The long lead meant that even if her attention was momentarily diverted by a particularly enticing blade of grass, I could gently guide her back while still rewarding her for turning her attention to me.

What's been particularly encouraging is seeing Bella start to anticipate the reward. Now, when she hears her name or the first sharp blast of the whistle, her ears prick up, and that wagging tail often makes a beeline back in my direction. Of course, with a young Cocker Spaniel, consistency is key. Even on days when I'm feeling less energetic, we still dedicate time to recall practice. Those ingrained instincts to follow a scent or chase a bird are strong, so reinforcing the recall command in various environments and with increasing distractions is crucial.

We're definitely still on this recall journey. Bella's hyperactive nature means that even with excellent progress, we'll continue to reinforce this vital command for the foreseeable future. It's a marathon, not a sprint! But seeing her respond so well to our calls and the whistle, knowing she's learning to check back in with us even when her adventurous spirit is in full swing, is incredibly rewarding.

For anyone else navigating recall training with a lively pup, especially a Cocker Spaniel, be patient, be consistent, and don't underestimate the value of a long training lead. It's a fantastic tool for building that essential foundation of trust and responsiveness. And who knows, maybe one day we'll be confidently striding across the fells with Bella happily off-lead, her recall as energetic as the rest of her!

Phantom Pregnancy: Bella The Drama Queen

Right, so, our Bella's been a bit of a state lately. Turns out, she's having a phantom pregnancy. You know, when they think they're pregnant but aren't? Yeah, that.

Basically, she's finished her first season and decided she was going to have puppies anyway, bless her. She's been super clingy, like a little shadow, and gone off her food a bit, which is why we took her to the vet. No nesting, thankfully, which I've heard can be proper weird. Her lady bits are back to normal-ish after her season, but her nipples were still enlarged, and she actually produced a bit of milk at the vet's. Poor thing.

So, the vet's given her this stuff called Galastop to stop the whole fake pregnancy thing, and some Pardale because she was a bit warm. She was proper sleepy this morning, though. Couldn't tell if it was the meds or just her being dramatic. Honestly, I'm hoping she perks up in the next couple of days. These phantom pregnancies sound like a right pain for them.

Alright, let's break down those vet meds in a way that's a bit less... well, vet-y.

Galastop:

• Think of Galastop as a "chill out, you're not actually pregnant" medicine. It's got this stuff in it that tells her body to stop making the "I'm having puppies!" hormone.
• Basically, it's like a hormonal reset button. No more milk, no more acting like she's about to give birth to a litter of imaginary pups.

Pardale:

• Pardale's your basic pain and fever reducer. It's like giving her a bit of doggy paracetamol and something to take the edge off.
• So, if she's feeling a bit hot and bothered, this stuff should help her cool down and feel less rubbish.

Basically, Galastop's sorting out the "fake pregnancy" drama, and Pardale's just making her feel a bit more comfortable while her body gets back to normal.

We're just keeping an eye on her, making sure she's comfy and has plenty of water. Fingers crossed the meds kick in soon and she's back to her crazy self.

Anyone else had to deal with this? Any tips for making her feel better? Let me know in the comments!

Dare I Say It? A Glimpse Of Summer...

It feels like summer is tiptoeing closer. This morning in West Cumbria was absolutely glorious. A bright, sunny start with the temperature hovering around a very pleasant 16°C (61°F).

Bella and I decided to take advantage of the sunshine and head out for a stroll to Longlands Lake in Cleator. Now, Longlands Lake is a rather special place. Once a mine, the land subsided and nature took over, creating a beautiful, tranquil lake. It's a testament to how nature can reclaim and transform even the most industrial of spaces.

The walk started off beautifully. The sun was warm on my face, and the sky was a perfect shade of blue. However, within minutes, I was regretting my decision to wear a jacket. It quickly became rather sweaty, and I found myself wishing I'd opted for something lighter. Lessons learned, eh?

The journey itself was a delight. We passed a field where a group of horses were grazing peacefully, their coats gleaming in the sunlight. Further along, the fields were dotted with sheep, their fluffy white forms contrasting against the green of the grass. It's always a treat to see them, a quintessential part of the Cumbrian landscape.

And then, we reached Longlands Lake. The water was incredibly calm, reflecting the sky like a giant mirror. And there, gracefully gliding across the surface, were the swans. They were truly putting on a show, strutting their stuff with an air of regal elegance. It's hard not to be captivated by their beauty.

The transformation of Longlands from a mine to a serene lake is quite remarkable. Standing there, watching the swans on the still water, it's easy to forget the industrial past. It's a reminder of the resilience of nature and its ability to heal and regenerate.

As we walked back, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. The sunshine, the fresh air, the beautiful scenery – it was a perfect morning. And, despite the slight wardrobe mishap, it certainly felt like a taste of summer. Here's hoping we have many more days like this to come.

• Total Distance: 3.6 miles (5.8Km). 

 

Bella's Big Girl Pants: Navigating Puberty

With Bella about to come out of her first season, she will transition from puppyhood to adolescence. It'll be a wild ride! Just like human teens, this stage can last a while – potentially until she's two years old. Puppyhood is fleeting, but the teenage phase? That's a whole other ballgame.

One of the first things we've noticed is that Bella's "puppy pass" with other dogs seems to be expiring. She'll need to learn the social cues of the dog world to navigate interactions smoothly, as other dogs might not be as forgiving of her puppy antics anymore.

We're also seeing some changes in her coat; the puppy fuzz is being replaced by a longer, more mature coat, which means regular grooming is becoming even more essential.

It's amazing to see how her muscles are developing, too. Cocker Spaniels are known for their strong hind legs, and Bella's are definitely starting to show! 

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of this stage will be the teenage attitude. Just like human teens, Bella might test boundaries and be a bit more independent. Patience and consistent training will be absolutely key.

Continued socialisation is also vital. We're making sure to expose Bella to different dogs, people, and environments to help her develop into a well-adjusted adult.

It's all part of the journey, and we're trying to embrace the changes and enjoy watching our pup grow and develop her unique personality. 

Bella's journey into adolescence is sure to be filled with challenges and triumphs.

Have you gone through the teenage phase with your Cocker Spaniel? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!

Bella's First Season: She's Now A Young Lady

Our little Bella, a bundle of fun and mischief, has officially entered her first season. It's a milestone every dog owner faces. And, to date, it's a case of so far, so good. 

We've noticed a definite shift in Bella's evening behaviour. She's more restless, pacing a bit more than usual, and seems a little… distracted.

It's all part of the hormonal rollercoaster, I suppose. Thankfully, we haven't had any unwanted canine visitors lurking around yet. Although, there was a funny incident yesterday with a normally very grumpy Jack Russell. He was surprisingly calm and almost… respectful?… when he encountered Bella. It definitely made me chuckle, and also served as a reminder that we need to be extra vigilant. 

The "spotting" situation has been surprisingly manageable so far. It's been minimal, which I'm incredibly grateful for. I did consider investing in doggie nappies for indoors, but honestly, they haven't seemed necessary. That said, I'm aware that this first season might be a bit of a trial run, and things could be different next time. After all, she's still just a seven-month-old pup, so her body is still developing.

Speaking of development, we've had several discussions with our vet about spaying. While we absolutely plan to have it done, we've decided to wait until Bella is two years old. This decision wasn't taken lightly. We were informed by the vet of American research that suggests waiting until she's fully mature can have positive long-term health implications. We also feel that allowing her to go through a couple of seasons will allow her to fully develop, both physically and emotionally. We believe the release of hormones plays a crucial role in this process. It's a personal choice, and I know there are differing opinions on the timing of spaying. For us, after weighing the pros and cons and discussing it with our vet, waiting until she's two feels like the right decision for Bella.

So, that's where we are on our first season adventure. It's definitely a learning curve, and I'm sure there will be challenges (and probably some funny stories!) along the way.

Any tips from experienced dog owners are always welcome! What were your experiences with your dog's first season? Let me know in the comments below!

Letting Bella Off the Lead for the First Time

A Proud Dog Parent Moment

Today was a big day for Bella, the cocker spaniel, and me! At seven months old, I decided it was time to take the plunge and let her off the lead in a local field, which was fairly secure. Let's just say, I was a little nervous.

Bella, Following Her Off Leash Walk

My stomach was churning a bit as I unclipped the leash. Here was my furry friend, free to roam wherever she pleased. What if she doesn't come back when I call her? What if she takes off after something and gets lost? 

But, I had faith in Bella. We've been working on her recall for months, and she's always been a good girl. And let me tell you, she did not disappoint!

As soon as I said "Bella, come!" she came bounding back to me, tail wagging excitedly. Relief washed over me, quickly followed by a surge of pride.

It was such a liberating experience for both of us. Bella clearly enjoyed the freedom to explore the field, sniffing. And for me, it was a heartwarming moment to see her so happy and carefree.

Overall, it was a positive and rewarding experience. It showed me that all the hard work we've been putting into Bella's training is paying off. She's a smart and obedient dog, and I'm so proud of her progress.

Here are a few tips for letting your dog off the lead for the first time:

• Make sure your dog has a good recall before you try this. Practice in a safe and controlled environment, such as your own backyard.
• Start with short off-leash sessions and gradually increase the length of time as your dog's recall improves.
• Be patient and consistent with your training.
• Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, when your dog comes back to you when called.
• Keep an eye on your dog at all times and be prepared to leash them up again if they start to wander off too far.

With a little patience and training, you can safely let your dog off the lead and enjoy the freedom of exploring the great outdoors together.

P.S. Don't forget to check out the video of Bella's first off-leash adventure!

I hope this blog post has been helpful. Please feel free to leave a comment below and share your own experiences of letting your dog off the lead for the first time. 

A Paw-sitive Change: My 10,000 Step Pup-date

Who would've thought that a tiny, fluffy bundle of joy could revolutionise my fitness routine? Since welcoming Bella, my energetic Cocker Spaniel puppy, into my life, I've been experiencing a significant boost in my daily step count.

After a year of gentle strolls with my late, mobility-challenged Poppy, I had settled into a comfortable 5,000 steps-a-day routine. However, Bella's boundless enthusiasm has propelled me back into the 10,000 step league. Her daily demands have transformed me into a walking machine, and I'm not complaining one bit!

As a West Cumbrian, I'm fortunate to have stunning landscapes right on my doorstep. To keep Bella engaged and entertained, I've been exploring a variety of routes, from coastal paths to woodland trails. These daily adventures have not only improved my physical health but have also provided me with much-needed mental rejuvenation.

As Bella grows and our walks become longer, I'm excited to share more of this beautiful region with you. Stay tuned for more paw-some adventures!

Coast to Coast Cycleway - Route 71

Coast to Coast Cycleway - Route 71

On Reflection: Bella's Bewildering Discovery

Bella, our resident canine philosopher, has stumbled upon a revelation that has turned her world upside down. It all began with a switched-off television, a seemingly innocuous object that has sparked a flurry of canine contemplation.

You see, Bella has discovered her reflection. And let me tell you, it's a sight to behold. Her eyes widen, her tail wags with anticipation, and her tongue lolls out in a mixture of curiosity and confusion. She's utterly captivated by this strange, yet familiar creature staring back at her.

Now, the million-dollar question is: Does Bella recognise herself? Is she aware that the image on the screen is, in fact, her own? Or does she believe she's encountered a long-lost canine doppelgänger? We may never know the answer, but the possibilities are endlessly amusing.

Perhaps she's convinced it's a fellow dog, a kindred spirit who shares her love for belly rubs. Maybe she's plotting a grand canine conspiracy, planning to outsmart this mysterious mirror-dog and claim the best spot on the sofa. Or perhaps she's simply enjoying a good old-fashioned staring contest, testing the limits of patience and perseverance.

Whatever the case may be, one thing is certain: Bella's newfound fascination with her reflection has brought a whole new level of entertainment to our household. So, the next time you catch your furry friend gazing intently at a reflective surface, remember Bella's bewilderment and chuckle at the thought of the wild and wonderful world going on inside their furry little heads.

Reflecting Bella

Bella's Big Adventure: Walkies

Born on June 28th, 2024, Bella is now a sprightly four-month-old Cocker Spaniel puppy, full of boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm.

A Step Outside

After weeks of careful indoor training and socialisation, it was time to introduce Bella to the great outdoors. With a mix of excitement and trepidation, we ventured out into the neighborhood, eager to see how she would react to the sights, sounds, and smells of the outside world.

A Harness for Safety

It didn't take long to realise that a collar alone wouldn't be enough to keep Bella safe during our walks. As she explored the world around her, she exhibited a level of enthusiasm where, for her safety and control, we decided to switch to a harness.

A Tale of Two Environments

Bella's behavior on our walks has been a study in contrasts. On the pavement, she's a model of good behavior, walking calmly by our side and responding well to commands. However, as soon as we step onto the grass, her inner puppy takes over. She bounds around, chasing leaves, sniffing at every blade of grass, and generally causing a bit of chaos. Her happiness is infectious. 

Training for the Future

Despite her occasional bursts of energy, we're confident that with consistent training, Bella will become a well-behaved and obedient companion. We've already started working on basic obedience commands like "sit," "stay," and "come." The next step will be teaching her to walk calmly on a leash, even when faced with the most enticing distractions.

A Bright Future

As we continue to explore the world with Bella, we're excited to see what the future holds for this adorable little pup. We're committed to providing her with plenty of opportunities for socialisation, exercise, and mental stimulation. With love, patience, and positive reinforcement, we're confident that Bella will grow into a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted dog.

Bella In Her Harness

Bella's First Three Weeks: A Tail-Wagging Adventure

Three weeks down, and a lifetime of love to go!

It's hard to believe that Bella has only been with us for such a short time. She's already become an integral part of our family, filling our days with laughter, tail wags, and a whole lot of puppy love.

Monday gone was a significant milestone for Bella as we tentatively took her outside for the first time. It was a mix of excitement and apprehension for both of us. Bella seemed a little overwhelmed by the vastness of the outdoors, her belly practically touching the ground. Despite her initial fear, her tail was wagging furiously, and she was sniffing everything in sight. It was clear that she was intrigued by the new world she was discovering.

Just a couple of days later, and Bella's confidence has grown leaps and bounds. She's no longer as timid as she was on Monday. In fact, she's even starting to greet my neighbors with a friendly wag of her tail. It's heartwarming to see her so quickly adapt to her new surroundings. While our walks are still short, I can't wait to see how Bella's adventures unfold as she grows older.

Bella is proving to be a quick learner! Her training sessions have been nothing short of delightful. She's mastered several commands, including:

• Sit: Bella sits on command with perfect posture.
• Give paw: She offers her paw eagerly, as if she knows she's getting a treat.
• Kiss: Bella gives the sweetest kisses, leaning in for a nuzzle.
• Wee: This is a particularly impressive command. As soon as I say "wee," Bella squats, ready to do her business.

It's amazing how quickly she's picked up these tricks, especially at only 17 weeks of age. I'm so proud of her progress and can't wait to see what she'll learn next!

From the moment she arrived, Bella's happiness has been infectious. Her tail seems to have a life of its own, wagging with such enthusiasm that it could probably generate enough power to light up a small town. And her recent discovery of teething bones has added a whole new dimension to her vocal repertoire. Her happy yowls are music to our ears!

But let's be honest, caring for a puppy isn't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a lot of hard work, too. After all, puppies are essentially babies, and they require a lot of attention and care.

• Potty training: This is a never-ending battle, but it's a necessary evil. There will be accidents, there will be late-night walks, and there will be moments when you'll question your sanity. But it's all worth it in the end.
• Socialisation: Puppies need to be exposed to different people, places, and animals from a young age. This helps them to become well-adjusted and confident adults.
• Training: Basic obedience training is essential for any dog, but it's especially important for puppies. It helps to prevent behavioral problems and makes living with your dog much easier.
• Exercise: Puppies are full of energy and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. This means daily walks, playtime in the yard, or even puppy training classes.

Despite the challenges, the rewards of caring for a puppy far outweigh the costs. Bella has already brought so much joy into our lives, and we can't wait to see what the future holds.

Bella Sitting

Bella Suckling

Bella Sleeping

Vaccinations: A Puppy's First Vet Visit

Today marked a significant milestone in Bella's young life: her second set of vaccinations. As a new puppy owner, I was both excited and nervous about this appointment. After all, this was Bella's first visit to our local veterinary clinic, and I wasn't sure how she would react.

Before we left for the vet, I made sure Bella was wearing her collar. This had been a training requirement for the past week, and I was hoping it would help her adjust to wearing a restraint in the car. The Highway Code mandates that all dogs must be properly restrained while in a moving vehicle. 

To my relief, Bella handled the car ride remarkably well. Despite the hour-long journey from Scotland when we first brought her home, she seemed to have acclimatised to travelling. Today's trip was no different. While she may have been a little annoyed by the restraint, she didn't fuss or whine. 

When we arrived at the clinic, Bella was shaking with nerves due to the unfamiliar environment. But, she was in good hands. 

The vet gave Bella a thorough examination. She weighed in at a healthy 5KG, which was right on target. The vet also checked her overall health and found her to be in excellent condition.

Since we were dealing with a different vet than the one in Scotland, we discovered that the vaccinations available weren't exactly the same. After a compatibility check, the vet determined that Bella needed an additional dose of Distemper vaccination. She also received a combination tablet that covers her for fleas, ticks, and worms.

The vet advised that we would need to return in two weeks for a follow-up injection. While this was a bit of extra work, it is necessary to ensure Bella's complete protection.

The good news was that after a week, we would finally be able to take Bella outdoors! However, due to her young age, we would need to restrict her walks to prevent joint issues. As a general rule, puppies should only be walked for five minutes for each month they are old. So, for Bella, this means around 15 minutes.

Looking ahead, I am excited to start taking Bella on short walks and exploring the great outdoors. With proper care and attention, I am confident that Bella will grow into a happy and healthy dog.

Bella Waiting For Her Vaccinations

Unhappy Bella Restrained In The Car

Bella: Settling In Perfectly!

I'm so happy to report that Bella's training is going incredibly well.

After a little initial adjustment, she's quickly picked up the toilet routine. The first night at home, she did have an accident in her crate, but that was to be expected. Since then, she's been absolutely dry! 

We've been using training pads to help her understand where to pee, and we've been gradually moving them closer to the outside door. For a number two, she's been really good about letting us know when she needs to go, and she always does her business outside.

Sleepwise, Bella has been doing really well. There have been a few whimpers when she's first put to bed, which is totally understandable as she's missing her siblings. But overall, she's been sleeping through the night.

Bella is such a keen learner, and she loves to play. It's the perfect combination! She can already sit on command, and she's definitely not afraid of a little bribery.

As you can see in the photo below, she's already sporting a collar. This is a crucial step in acclimating her to the idea of wearing restraints. It's a small but significant milestone in her training.

In the coming days, we'll be introducing her to the leash. By allowing her to wander around our home with the leash attached, we're helping her become comfortable with the feeling of it around her neck. It's a gentle way to prepare her for future walks and adventures.

And soon, we'll be taking Bella to the vet for her vaccinations. This is an important step in ensuring her health and well-being. Following the vaccinations, it'll be a two week wait until we can venture out into the big wide world. 

We're so excited to see what the future holds for this amazing little girl.

New Beginning: Welcoming Bella Into My Home

It’s been a month since I lost my beloved Cocker Spaniel, Poppy. The pain of her loss still lingers, but I’m slowly beginning to find a new sense of joy. Poppy was more than just a dog; she was my best friend, my confidante, and my constant companion. Losing her left a void in my life that I didn’t think could be filled. 

Introducing Bella

But then, along came Bella, a 12-week-old Cocker Spaniel puppy. From the moment I laid eyes on her, I knew she was the perfect addition to our family. Bella is a bundle of energy, with an ever-wagging tail and a love for adventure. She’s brought a sense of life and laughter back into our home.

Both of Bellas parents are Red Cocker Spaniels. 

Interesting Facts About Cocker Spaniels

Cocker Spaniels are a popular breed known for their affectionate and playful personalities. They have a long history, dating back to the 14th century. Originally bred for hunting game birds, they are now primarily kept as companions.

Here are some interesting facts about Cocker Spaniels:

• Double coats: Cocker Spaniels have a double coat, which helps them stay warm in colder weather.
• Hunting heritage: They were originally bred for hunting game birds, such as woodcock.
• Two varieties: There are two main varieties of Cocker Spaniel: the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel.
• Affectionate: Cocker Spaniels are known for their affectionate and playful personalities.
• High energy: They require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.
• Intelligent: Cocker Spaniels are intelligent dogs and can be trained easily. 
• Loyal: They are known for their loyalty to their families.
• Adaptable: Cocker Spaniels are adaptable dogs and can do well in most living situations.

While I’ll never forget Poppy, Bella has helped me to start a new chapter in my life. She’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future.

In three years time, I aim to retire from work. At that point, Bella will be an ideal age for me to spend many an hour exploring the countryside, and further afield. We can both grow old together. 

There won't be another dog in my home after Bella, so I aim to make it count, just as I did with Poppy. I'm sure we'll have a blast.