Well, yesterday was 'B day' and time to collect our new furry friend.  Mrs. M. (the breeder) had just bathed the puppies, so they looked unbelievably fluffy.  We could see how much of a wrench it was for her to let them go, but we promised to keep in touch.  On the journey home, Barney kept whimpering, which was heartbreaking.  However, once back and in the garden, his little tail started wagging and we haven't looked back.  He took to his puppy crate instantly - we left the door open and he trots in when he wants a rest.  He is an immensely hungry boy (true to breed!!) and lets you know it, almost doing somersaults as you prepare his food!!!!  He has been incredibly good about going outside for the 'necessary'. 

His 'first night' proved to be a lot better than we had feared.  After a couple of minutes protest at having the cage door shut for the first time, he settled down and slept until just after 4.00am.  He was snuffling around in the cage, so I quickly went outside with him.  We were both back in our respective beds - mission accomplished - in under 2 minutes!!!!!  He settled immediately and slept until 7.00 (a respectable hour I felt) time for another quick dash outside, then back ready for breakfast. The rest of the day has been spent playing in the garden (he is very fond of chasing leaves - kind of handy at this time of year!), naps and eating (he is still on 4 meals a day - wow!!).  The one thing I have learnt from today - how much I had forgotten what it is like to have a puppy - it's more fun and harder work!!!!