Christine Iqbal

by Christine Iqbal
(Murcia Spain)

This is the story of The Boogies. The Boogies is the collective name for our clan of 3 Newfies, who are Yogi (Daddy Bear), BooBoo (Mummy Bear), and ChiChi (Baby Bear). Since they came to us in 2009 as puppies - they are not related - we have had a wonderful time rearing them. They are fortunate that we live in the Spanish countryside so they have plenty of freedom and we all have plenty of exercise. The Boogies are very loving and gentle (when they are not being boisterous). They are wonderful with children and are obedient most of the time.

Their favourite past-time is hunting and sometimes they catch their own "supper". We hear their rally call and we know the hunt is on. They hunt any creature which runs - hares, rabbits, rats, cats, small dogs, hedgehogs, birds, frogs - horrible as that is to read about - that is the reality of having a pack. In spite of their size they can pursue their prey with amazing speed. They can even climb olive trees when in pursuit of cats. We have discussed their hunting behaviour with our vet and asked about consulting a dog whisperer to retrain them, but he says that as they hunt as a pack that is not possible.

Their other hobby is excavation; our garden now undulates to varying degrees and the only plant left in the rockery is a palm bush because of the huge holes they love to dig.

BooBoo loves swimming in our pool and the sea, but the other two prefer to just bathe on the steps or shore. They are very happy when the farmers water their fields then they can wade through the irrigation ditches to their hearts' content.

They love to go to the beach and for drives in the car. They attract a lot of attention as few people in this area have giant dogs.

I would advise anyone who is house proud (which I am not!) not to have Newfies as the amount of dust, water (dust + water = mud) and hair deposited by them into the house and on the sofas is phenomenal.

I love and adore my Boogies very much