Cheysuli Cardigans is a 2.6-acre home in a rural, pine-cradled valley at the foot of the San Francisco Peaks in Northern Arizona, a dormant volcano cluster towering over the college town of Flagstaff, which is approximately 90 minutes from the Grand Canyon. Elevation is 7,000 feet, which means four true seasons, including snow, so the dogs are accustomed to a variety of weather. Most of the acreage is divided into four large chain-link dogs yards–actual yards, not rectangular runs–plus a walled puppy yard outside the dog room and kitchen. The dogs get plenty of exercise outdoors, but also come indoors off and on throughout the day. A 12' x 20' room off the den is the "dog room," where the dogs are fed and sleep at night in private wire crates. Many people unfamiliar with crating believe this is a cruel practice, but this is far from the truth. Dogs are den animals, and view crates as their private territory. Puppies are whelped upstairs in my bedroom where it's quiet and private, and spend the first three weeks there with their mother in a raised whelping/puppy pen. They are then moved downstairs into the living room so they may begin adjusting to more social surroundings, including the other dogs and my two dog-friendly cats. Weaning begins here at four weeks of age, and, weather permitting, they are introduced to the outdoors via the walled puppy yard. If weather does not permit, they stay indoors in a large play area with plenty of toys, and fresh water at all times. Cardigans are exceptionally people-oriented and do not do well as "backyard-only" or "kennel" dogs. They should only be placed in loving, attentive environments where the dogs are an active part of the family. This is an extremely loyal dog who should live with individuals or families who have the time to invest in the rearing and training of a well-adjusted dog. Please evaluate your lifestyle honestly before contacting Cardigan breeders. Be fair to yourself, and to the dog. |
