Lambent's Atlanta Dixie Belle, CGC
Dixie was born on June 11, 1995, and came to us as an 8 week old puppy. Born a Gemini-the sign of the heavenly twins-and that astrological sign fit her perfectly.
With those she knew and loved, Dixie was an absolute angel-but she could also be a ferocious guardian and very intimidating to those she didn't trust-which was totally a decision made by her, and at her discretion. In other words, Dixie could be one tough Kuvasz. She was by far the smartest dog we have ever owned or even met.
Owning Dixie was a real eye opener for us as to the "other" end of the spectrum in Kuvasz temperament. She was our second Kuvasz, after Rebel. After living with Rebel, who was for the most part a pretty mellow, laid back Kuvasz, we were totally unprepared for this type of temperament. Dixie had extensive socialization beginning at puppy kindergarten, through advanced obedience, agility, CGC, tracking and conformation. She totally excelled at all of those areas, learning very quickly. She was also a "Houdini" with extraordinary problem solving skills who could lock and unlock doors, open locked kennel gates, and a host of other amazing feats.
Because Dixie was so bright, and so tough, the several years of training she received were of utmost importance in terms of our being able to have her behave out in public when on a leash, and using her obedience commands to keep her under control and in check. Part of the Kuvasz AKC standard says "Bold, courageous and fearless" and Dixie certainly was all of those things and more. She would not have been a Kuvasz that would have worked out for most first time Kuvasz owners.
Living with a Kuvasz like Dixie made us better Kuvasz owners, better dog owners, and certainly helped us mentor other Kuvasz owners who have "tough" dogs. Dixie taught us that we have to be smarter than our dogs and one step ahead of them in anticipating problems.
She was shown in conformation a few times, but due to several issues in addition to temperament, we felt she would not be an ideal foundation bitch and elected to spay her and keep her as a pet.
As a home guardian Dixie was unexcelled. She guarded our home and property with steadfast attention and nothing escaped her attention.
As a home companion Dixie was an unbelievably gentle, caring and concerned family member. If any of us or our dogs were sick, Dixie knew it and took over the role of vigilant companion and nursemaid. There were several times we dealt with illnesses and she did not leave our sides that entire time. She took that job very seriously, but in a gentle and loving way. She was Robin's constant companion, and at her side at all times. Loving and protecting.
Dixie was a three time "hot dog bobbing" champion. Hot dog bobbing is a game in which dogs "bob" for hot-dogs in a tub of water and are timed, with the fastest retriever being declared the winner. Dixie could bob for a hot-dog and eat it whole in under 2 seconds!
In August of 2005, at age 10, Dixie was diagnosed with malignant lymphoma. Although she initially responded very well to chemotherapy, and had three and a half good months of quality time, in December of 2005 her cancer became more aggressive. Not surprisingly, Dixie fought this cancer hard until the very end.
Dixie was a very important and integral part of our lives. We cherished every day with her, and are thankful for all of the things she taught us, as well as her total devotion to us. There will never be another one quite like her, and she is sadly missed.