October was busy with the grandson’s first birthday. But I knew another special boy who had a birthday in the fall, although without looking it up, I thought it was November. Well, I checked his birthday the other day and it was October also!

Who is this special birthday boy? The one and only Pinewoods Great Expectations aka Dickens!

I can believe my sweet puppy turned twelve years old! Yes, Dickens is twelve years old!

He is of course, officially retired from stud dog status, but still enjoy “thinking” he’s going to get a date with one. 😉 He’s slowed down some, still has a great appetite, eagerly goes outside for potty breaks and to hang out with friends, but spends a good deal of his day napping. He’s been the best boy.

I remember when he came to live with us as a wee puppy. That year we had some unforeseen things come up and he spent his whole first year on the farm with no outings or socialization trips. So I was a bit worried the following spring when I signed him up for obedience class. How would he react to being in town and with all those barky, excited dogs especially on the first night?

Well, I needn’t have worried. He handled it with the gentle calmness that he possesses. Laying on the grass while other puppies wiggled, big dogs barked and lunged at each other. Pure Cavalier sweetness exemplified!

He of course, passed his class. Then went on through the years to earn his AKC Canine Good Citizenship certificate and later the advanced CGCA (Community Canine).

He truly has been one of the foundations of Pinewood Cavapoos! We have been blessed by Dickens and so many others have too whether you have a puppy from him or by now, a grandpuppy.

Happy belated birthday, Dickens! We love you <3