Tuesday, February 13, 2007

Doobie-Doobie-Doo


It was a rainy afternoon and I decided to take a break from work and nip outside for a breath of fresh air. As I walked out, I noticed Doobie straight away - dainty, graceful and playful while walking with his mistress along a little water feature in More London Place, near London Bridge.

He had such an air of joy and happiness about him that I could not help but walk up and have a chat with him and his owner.

Doobie is a Yorkshire Terrier, a popular breed, much loved in Great Britain (consistently in the top ten favourite British breeds) and around the world. Doobie's fabulous long coat, in a colour scheme that could come from the finest London hair stylist, is his great asset. As he happily greeted me with licks and kisses, his fur felt soft and smooth like silk.

Doobie is a young pup, at 6 months, but his great personality already shines through. He is effortlessly charming and confident, and apparently, in his owner's words, instantly 'makes friends with everybody'. Doobie loves children and I was to witness it as he wagged his tail enthusiastially at the sight of a group of kids passing by. His owner tells me that Doobie loves walks and, the moment he spots little ones in the park, he is off like a shot to meet and greet. He is such a loving and affectionate dog that I found it difficult to say goodbye and go back to my office!

Doobie was constantly on the go, looking around with his jet black eyes, nuzzling around in my bag, where his great sense of smell immediately detected a box of dog treats, and jumping up into my arms. He is as light as a feather, a typical characteristic of Yorkies (as they are affectionally known), which were bred in the 19th century to be light and nimble, traits necessary in their role as vermin catchers. This energy and determination still remains in this tiny breed, which now belongs to the toy category and is favoured as a lap dog rather than a working dog.

More about Yorkshire Terriers: Lincoln and Humberside Yorkshire Terrier Club

See other London terriers: Chloe, Kaiser, Jack, Dillon, Prudence, Thistle and Miss Piggy