Did I just blog about my puppy?

Maximus Bonfield.

Yes, this is a blog about my puppy. His name is Maximus and he is 2 years old. Maximus is a black and white cockapoo and extremely cute. He is fluffy, has smelly feet, loves cuddles walks and treats. Hates going to the groomers (but still has to go) and I think I'm his favourite one.

When our daughter was in foster care, her carers had 2 dogs that she was very fond of. She would show interest in dogs on the tv and when we were out walking and I got the impression that she missed having the dogs around. I was so convinced we would never get a dog especially while the children were still young because I didn't want the extra work.

Although our daughter settled in amazingly we decided to get a dog anyway to see if it helped her build up stronger relationships within the family. Then Maximus came along. We bought him home at 8 weeks and he was just the cutest little fluff ball ever. The peeing and pooping in the house we were able to cope with because he was very affectionate and instantly had us captivated. The children thought it was great playing with a puppy in the house and they all wanted him to sleep in their beds.

We started off great with training, sleeping in a crate at night, toilet training didn't take too long but then it all went out the window and he now sleeps in our room and is allowed on the sofa.

He was a kind of therapy dog for our daughter and she bonded really well with him, they took naps together during the day, it was very sweet. My eldest son loves taking him for walks and they help to groom and feed him. It's a team effort and I can see it teaching the boys how to care for someone else other than themselves. One of the best things we did as a family was get Maximus.

Maximus and his sister at his first owners house.

Still waiting to bring him home, we would go and visit.

He was just the cutest little fluff ball.

Bringing him home for the first time. It was December and an early Christmas Gift.

He loved his goats milk and would make such a mess.

Jabs all done and out on our fist walk. He is very bright and learnt all the commands.

When he could climb the stairs we often found him on our bed.

Graduated puppy class. All that hard work paid off.

Building a relationship with the children.

Maximus the bumblebee.

Starting to get a bit too shaggy, smelly and knots I can't get out. Time for your first groom.

We have found a super local groomers where he has been since he was a pup. When you find a decent groomers do not leave as it's nearly impossible to find another good one. We go to The Hair of the Dog in Hatfield House grounds.

Oops he was more matted than we thought. Looking very smart though in his tuxedo. New name "Shaun".

He even comes on holiday with us. We have found some great dog friendly holiday places. This picture was taken at Forest Holidays. We also go to Thorpeness in Suffolk and Centre Parcs which cater for pets.