Once you’ve had the perfect dog, it’s hard to decide to do it all again. We lost Charlie in September. He was 16 years old. He had been the best dog ever. And we’ve had our share. Charlie was a mix of schnauzer and poodle, a schnoodle. One thing we knew for sure is that we wanted a poodle mix.
We started looking at rescue sites, but my husband thought it best to get a puppy that you knew the history of. We found a breeder of miniature golden doodles within driving distance and set out two weeks ago on an adventure. The girl with the auburn fur was the one we thought we wanted, but, of course, our qualifications for a calm puppy were utmost. She was a wild child. We asked about other pups from the litter. When we held the little black male, we knew he was the one.
Finding a name was another matter altogether. We each had our own ideas. I made a list of P-names: Prince, Pippin, Paco, Pax, Puck, Pepper, Pablo. Nothing felt quite right. I posted a photo on Facebook with the message that we were still trying to name him. My friend Mary wrote “He’s got that Albert (Einstein) look. You could call him Al.” Then Susan responded, “if you’ll be my bodyguard…you can call me Al. Total Jeff Simon vibe.” It made me laugh like this new puppy has made me laugh. So we landed on Albert, but we are using the French pronunciation “Al-Bear”.
Albert is asleep on my lap as I write this post, exactly as he should be.
Of course, a new puppy has its moments of frustration. Potty training is at the top of that list right now. But this will come with time and consistency on our part. Today will be his first grooming. I wish I could bottle the puppy smell for you. There is nothing quite like it.
Reflections on the Teche 
Welcome, Albert!! Thanks for sharing this slice with photos! He is adorable.
Margaret, I’m so thrilled for your joy and happiness. I saw a Facebook post this week that made me think of you – I took a screenshot and wanted to wait a bit before sending it, but today seems the perfect day. Truly, Al has been sent to restore joy and erase all sadness of heart. There is no doubt that Al has been sent by Charlie to keep you two in line. I’m pretty sure Charlie went through all the forthcoming puppies for the perfect pick and has given Al all the marching orders and everything he needs to know about how to do the job. He probably saw that girl dog too and cringed. Al will be your perfect fit. Charlie-ordained! He is such a cutie!!! Boo Radley, Fitz, and Ollie are giving him the Silent order of the Schnoodlehood thumbs up!
Thank you so much. I feel Charlie’s love every time I hold little Al. You are so sweet to send me this message. I’m choking up.
He is too cute! So happy for you. The passing of one pup is so tough, but each new one has so much love to give. I’ve luckily gained a golden doodle myself (toy) through my boyfriend. She’s the best!
Oh – he is the cutest little Albert I have ever seen. You just want to give him a hug and cuddle up with him! Enjoy!
Ah, Al-Bear! I’m spelling it like that so I will remember how to pronounce his name. I’m so glad you found a calmer puppy. I’m imagining that sweet baby puppy smell right now. Here’s to a wonderful second best dog ever in honor of Charlie.
I can’t wait to meet Albert one day when you are walking him. He looks a lot like my Mollie who is also a poodle mix. I know you and your family are enjoying him😊
Albert! He’s just adorable! Our newest kitten, Felix, also has the French pronunciation. Yes, puppy training can be so exhausting. But he does look like the perfect addition for you. I understand what you mean about how hard it is to decide to get another dog after having the perfect dog. Our sweet pittie, Roxy, was the PERFECT dog to have in a house full of cats. She was so gentle and loving with them. We can’t imagine ever having such a sensitive and gentle presence again, so we aren’t sure if we will have another dog. But I do miss having just the right dog!
Margaret, I’m sorry to hear of the passing of Charlie. I know how difficult it is to lose a beloved pet too well. I know what you mean by the perfect dog, except in cats. Unfortunately, I’m allergic to dogs, though I do love them. Albear is the most adorable puppy! I remember seeing him on FB. Yes, to bottling puppy smell! Doodles are great pets. I’m sure Albear will be giving and receiving loads of love.
(My nephews have a golden doodle, a little reddish that loves to be carried around by them like a baby, even though he is now an adult. He is calm, too and sweet. Luckily, I’m not allergic to him and can give him lots of attention.)
I imagine your Charlie is watching all of you together and happy that his parents have a new puppy to dote on and be their companion. I’m happy that you two have a new puppy to cherish and make beautiful memories with. Have fun.
Thank you for sharing your pics, also.