Susan Schubel & Pipsi and Huckleberry

Who is in the photo at right?

That's me, Susan Schubel, and Pipsi Ruby Rhubarb (the Pug, age 8) with her ukulele backup band at the 2015 World Championship Boatyard Dog Competition in Rockland Maine (we tied for second). Another photo [below left] is a rare in-focus photo of Huckleberry Honeysuckle (the Jaroodle, age 5) with me on a snowy woods walk.

I work for National Audubon’s Project Puffin as assistant sanctuary manager in the summer and outreach educator in the winter. It is excellent fun work which encompasses birds, research, conservation, construction of field stations, boat work, lots of weather, kids, and education.

Sometimes I work at the Hog Island Audubon Camp - a nature camp for adults, teens, and families. My side business is Murremaid Music Boxes, a company which makes sound systems to attract birds to safe or historic breeding areas.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

The summer is a very busy time for me, being bird season, so winter is when I have more time to linger with my pooches. We just took a walk in the snowy woods (no school today!) and are going to settle down with a warm cuppa.

What's brewing?

Drinking bird-friendly coffee from Old Dodge Farm Roasters, cooked up in an stovetop espresso pot, with half and half. I always feel best when drinking a bird-friendly coffee since it is grown in a diverse shady understory habitat which can support more wildlife, including “our” northern birds on their wintering grounds. (Though I admit to Dunkin’ Donuts on the road…) This coffee is delicious and so much better for the planet!

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

Always treats. There are always treats. A bowl of popcorn with butter and salt makes us all very happy!

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

I was in search of a dog to name Rhubarb, but when we found our little puppy my daughter thought she was a Pipsi. Her name just flowed together when we added the middle name Ruby. Pips, Pug O’ My Heart, Sweet Puggy Wug, and Your Highness, are some of her many nicknames. Huckleberry Honeysuckle just goes by Huckleberry, Grumbler, Fluffin, or “Stop Barking!".

How were you and your dogs united?

After losing my dog Jibbie (JibAsInTheSail, a lab-shepherd) I decided to never just have one dog at a time, and to stagger their ages. The lack of toenails tapping on the the wooden floor was just too much for me. We got Bessie Puddin’ Pie (a houndy mix) as a puppy in 1999, so our daughter wouldn’t have to be born into the world with no dog to snuffle her. When Bessie was seven, I had nurtured my pug obsession to the point of no return and we started looking for puppies. Once one starts looking for puppies, one must find a puppy! We found Pipsi in an ad in the local swap/sell it journal (Uncle Henry’s) and met her nice family in a neighborhood full of kids. They had dad (Toby), and acquired the mom (Tiny) from a fellow customer at another Maine standard, Marden’s. Pug puppies are so cute!!! A year after we lost Bessie, when Pipsi was 3, we began to think about another pup, a birthday pup for my daughter. Again puppy desperation kicked in, and we searched the Uncle Henry’s and newspapers to find one — cute little Jack Russell/Poodle mixes were found nearby. Both parents were absolutely nuts, but still we took her! Pipsi wondered why she had to come live with us, and still looks at me from time to time in frustration at this crazy jack russellian energy we’ve added to the house.

Please tell us about Project Puffin and Hog Island Audubon Camp.

Project Puffin is Audubon’s Seabird Restoration Program, and works to protect and restore seabird colonies in Maine and beyond. We work on seven islands in Maine which are home to terns, puffins, guillemots and other species. This project was integral in getting puffins and terns back to the islands of Maine after they were decimated by plume-hunters in the late 1800’s. Now the focus is research and protection of these important sanctuaries. The Hog Island Camp is a very special place in Muscongus Bay - the oldest Conservation Camp in the country. Anyone who enjoys birds and nature will definitely want to come for a session!

[photo left: a puffin]

Cat, postman, squirrel….?

Everyone must bark at everything and everyone. All the time. Huckleberry is very obsessed with squirrels and mice. Pipsi would like to eat snow plows and passing large dogs.

Squeaky-toy, ball, stick…?

There are favorite stuffies, most of whom have been desqueaked by chewing. Pipsi chewed the nose off her favorite dog to make it more puglike. There is some stick chasing on our morning woods walk, and in the winter the snowball catching game is very popular!

Where is your dogs' favorite outdoor destination?

We walk in our woods every day, just a short loop but there is dirt to eat and things like fox trails to sniff. Huckleberry really likes the chance to go to a beach for a swim. We think she might swim across the whole ocean given the chance. When daughter Ayla was smaller, we would have both dogs pull her in a sled down the road (Pipsi most of the muscle and Huckle most of the song) and thought perhaps we could start a small sled dog race called the “Itty bitty Iditty”.

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

Pipsi tends to prefer small dogs, pugs, and some rough-around-the edges dogs that seem to have a bone to pick - including Penny, a fellow ruffian she used to do agility with. Pipsi particularly dislikes the happy-go-lucky Golden Retriever types and tries to eat them.

Huckleberry is very nervous about everyone and everything, but I think she does like Pipsi. Her new pal is a Pomeranian named Jose.

[photo right: Pipsi was the first contender at Boatyard Dogs to tie knots. Here she ties a cleat hitch.]

What is each dog's best quality?

Pipsi is loving, snuggly and very devoted. She is solid and does not get stage fright.

Huckleberry is sweet mostly, and can run like the wind and swim like an otter. It is a joy to watch her revel as an athlete.

If your dogs could change one thing about you, what would it be?

They would like me to be with them all the time. Why must I go off to these dog-unfriendly islands?

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dogs could speak, which actors should do their voices?

I’ve thought and thought about this and decided that Pipsi would probably have a large, no-nonsense, take-charge, deep woman’s voice, where as Huckle would have a nerve-wracked, high-pitched frenzied voice. Can’t pin them down exactly though as the thought of them speaking in human voices is disturbing.

If your dogs could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

Pipsi, why must you go after all these big dogs?!

Huckleberry, why do you growl in your sleep?

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

Even though we always have treats, I’m sure they would re-iterate that “It’s always time for a treat!”.

Visit the Facebook page for Murremaid Music Boxes, a company which makes sound systems to attract birds to safe or historic breeding areas. Learn more about Project Puffin and Hog Island Audubon Camp.

--Marshal Zeringue

Lawrence M. Schoen & Gej

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Lawrence M. Schoen. I’m an author, a small press publisher, a psychologist, a hypnotherapist, and a Klingonist. With me is Gej. He’s about six and a half years old. To the best of our knowledge, he was an attempt by a puppy mill to generate a new designer dog — a Maltese/Pug mix. Or as I like to think of it, a “Mug” (not that I’ve ever seen any others).

What's the occasion for Diet Coke with a Canine?

I recently leased a new car, and it’s past time for Gej to get comfortable with it and take it out for a spin. Alas, he cannot drive it, not because of any lack of will, but simply because it’s a manual transmission and he only knows automatics.

What's on tap today?

We’re on our way to a nearby park that was recently renovated. It’s very dog-friendly, and has several miles of walking paths so we can both get some exercise.

Any treats for you or Gej on this occasion?

There is a brand new chew stick with his name on it waiting for us once we return home. He won’t actually chew (or eat) it right away. He’s apt to run around the house with it for an hour, showing it off as he clenches it in his mouth, until he decides where to hide it for a day.

How were you and Gej united?

I went to a puppy rescue to check out the dogs they had. I was sitting with one pup, and he looked up at me with an expression that said, “You, you are the most important thing in the universe.” It was really striking. Then a butterfly went by, and the pup tracked its movement, all the while with an expression that seemed to cry out to the butterfly, “You, you are the most important thing in the universe.” Uh huh. I picked up a pebble and rolled it past his field of vision, and wouldn’t you know it? That pebble was also…

So I left that dog behind and went to look at some others. There was one, a tiny puppy that the older dogs had been picking on; he had been given his own space to keep him safe. My wife and I visited with him, and he came over, stopped shivering, and sat with me a while. That was Gej.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

I don’t believe in giving dogs names that are people names. And I had to explain this to my wife when we went looking for a dog. To say that she disagreed with my way of thinking would be a mild way of stating it, but since this was to be “my” dog, she gave in.

When I looked at him the name popped into my head and I said, “Gej, your name is Gej.”

My wife did not approve. I reminded her that I did not want to burden a dog with a person’s name. She countered with the notion that I name the dog for something else. I remember suggestions that included choices like “doorknob.” In the end, I was able to keep “Gej,” but only after promising not to train him to respond to commands issued in Klingon.

As far as aliases go, now that he’s a respectable and civilized six and a half, I can say that as a pup he was a terror. He had a habit of opening latched handbags and distributing their contents around the house, or pulling my wife’s books (but never mine) off the shelves and chewing on the spines. But that’s all part of the usual rambunctious/destructive nature of puppies. Except, it was also about this time that he crept up behind my wife’s aging and sickly dog, gripped her hind leg (the dog’s, not my wife’s) with his mouth full of needle-like puppy teeth, and attempted to push her down the stairs. For this and a few other reasons, my wife took to calling him “Evil Fuck Dog!” To her credit, she has since forgiven him, and now speaks of Gej only with love and adoration.

I also sometimes call him “Mr. Boy,” though I’m not sure why.

Does Gej do more to help or hinder your writing?

Gej’s involvement is as a reassuring but carefully detached presence. When I’m working from my home office, he will lay on the floor by my feet, keeping me company as I pound away at the keys.

Have any of your actual dogs inspired the creation of fictional canines?

My previous dog was with me for eighteen years. She showed up at my doorstep as a stray puppy. We sat together on the steps awhile and I looked at her and said, “Ghang, your name is Ghang.” And so she was.

Ghang was my constant companion through the end of my college years, all through grad school (my doctoral dissertation was dedicated to her), and through all the colleges that I taught at. Her passing after a long and rich life hit me very hard.

So hard, in fact, that I spent half a million words eulogizing her in fiction without even realizing it. One of my readers (who was also a psychologist) pointed this out to me after reading one of my books in which the protagonist loses his dog, believes him to be dead, but gets the dog back by the novel’s end. That’s when I realized what I’d done, and that if my character could get his dog back, I could move on and have another one in my life. Soon after, I went in search of Gej.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Deer. We live out in the exo-burbs, and there are a number of wooded lots near us. It’s not uncommon to come out in the morning and find half a dozen deer milling around on my lawn. Gej is not a fan of them and will rush up to the fence and bark at them. They are generally disinclined to move on.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Definitely the squeaky. Do you know the toy that’s a long serpent with multiple segments and a different squeaker in each? Yeah, that one. Don’t get that for a dog that likes squeaky toys. The dog will be happy, but trust me, you’ll regret it very quickly.

What is Gej's best quality?

Just being himself and wanting to hang with me. It’s a great thing to just be with a dog. You either completely understand what I mean and are already nodding, or I really doubt I could explain it to you.

If Gej could change one thing about Pennsylvanians, what would it be?

Not surprisingly, given that he lives a privileged and somewhat sheltered life, Gej has never shown any interest in state policy or procedures. I tried to get his input on this question but he just stared at me.

If Gej could answer only one question in English, what would you ask him?

Probably, “Gej, what question should I have asked you? Good dog.”

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which Gej could speak, who should voice him?

I’ve never really given this question any thought. Huh. Statistically speaking, I suppose it would be Michael Caine, but I don’t think he’d be a good fit. Hmm… maybe Tom Cavanaugh. I know, right? Not what you expected.

What advice would Gej give if asked?

“What is best in life? To crush your enemies, to see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women!” No, wait, that’s Conan. Sorry.

Visit Lawrence M. Schoen's website and Twitter perch.

Writers Read: Lawrence M. Schoen.

--Marshal Zeringue

Luke Murphy & Costner

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Luke Murphy and that’s my buddy, Costner. I’m a husband, father, teacher, tutor and author. Costner is a thirteen year-old, male pug. Costner and I have a special bond. In a home with my wife and three daughters, Costner and I are the only males, so we stick together.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Today, Costner and I are celebrating the release of my new thriller, Kiss & Tell.

What's brewing?

My coffee of choice is “Backpacker’s Brew” with a shot of Hazelnut cream. It is prepared in my wife’s new Suncafé Coffee Pod Brewer.

Any treats for you or Costner on this occasion?

No treats for me (at my age, I have to control myself around sweets. Costner is enjoying one (maybe two, wink, wink) chicken-flavored Marr-O-Treats.

Readers can learn about how Costner got his name from your 2013 Q & A here. Has he acquired any new nicknames since then?

No new nicknames, although my two year-old calls him “Buddy-Cos.”

Did Costner have any influence on your new novel?

Costner is my biggest supporter in the house. He sleeps in his bed by my desk every day when I write. He was also an inspiration for a character in my book. One of my “suspicious” suspects has a chubby, brown and black pug that he is walking when confronted by the police.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Costner is not a “toy” kind of dog. He’s more interested in treats and snacks.

Where is Costner's favorite outdoor destination?

Definitely the park. We live only a short walk away from a local park and when we go there, if it isn’t busy, I let Costner off his leash to run free. He loves it.

If your dog could change one thing about the people of Western Quebec, what would it be?

More leniency on dogs running free in town.

What advice would Costner give if asked?

Enjoy your treats, because if you gain even a few extra pounds, they can be taken away. He learned this the hard way.

Visit Luke Murphy's website, blog, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

Coffee with a Canine: Luke Murphy & Costner (March 2013).

--Marshal Zeringue

Nikki Kelly & Alfie and Goose

Who is in the photo at right?

Hey there! I'm Nikki Kelly and I was born and raised only minutes away from the chocolately scent of Cadbury World in Birmingham, England. Lailah is my first novel, and the first book in the Styclar Saga. I live in London with my husband and our dogs, Alfie (a pug) and Goose (a chihuahua).

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I have tea with the pooches everyday! In fact, everyday is a delightful tea-drinking, dog petting, wonderful writing day in my flat!

What's brewing?

Twining's English Breakfast tea… Milk with three sugars!

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

Alfie is sitting with a very large bone. Goose, however, is restricted to one small gravy bone (she's recently put on a bit of weight, and though she insists it's puppy fat, the vet told Mommy to stop giving her so many treats…)

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

My hubby named Alfie, he was easy to name, he just looked like an Alfie!

Goose [photo left, sleeping], was a little trickier—I didn't want to give her a typical Chi name. In the end, it was one of her habits that led to what we chose to call her. So, when Goose wants attention she will jut her neck in and out and makes a pecking like moment… hence the name Goose!

How were you and your dogs united?

I tried to find a Pug and a Chi through the rescue centre, but they didn't have any 'small' rescue dogs, so in the end I found both through breeders.

I'll never forget driving home with Goose. She was in a cardboard transport box, which I had put on the passenger seat next to me. Within minutes (and when I was driving down a highway no less!) she had chewed through the cardboard and when I put my hand down to try to keep her from jumping out, she nipped me! I remember thinking… oh lordy! But, despite that less than perfect start she's ended up being the easiest dog I have ever had!

How do your dogs help--or hinder--your work?

They do both. When I'm working (usually through the night) they won't leave my side, so they sleep on the sofa in my office. But, when they wake up and decide they want attention I have to take a break to entertain them for a while!

Have any actual dogs inspired fictional dogs in your writing?

Not in this series, but I am sure the impact of Marley and Me will end up in one of my novels. One day!

Squirrel, postman, cat.... ?

Alfie—Postman! Goes mad when the letter box goes!

Goose—Cats! She barks at them, but if they come close she hides between Mommy's legs! (She's all mouth that one!)

What is your dogs' favorite outdoor destination?

The Lido!

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

Each other, they regularly cuddle up on the sofa!

Because Alfie is much hairier than Goose, she tends to sleep nestled right into his podgy belly!

What is each dog's best quality?

Alfie [photo left: in the bath] is the happiest, most bouncy dog in the world! I love that about him!

Goose is fiercely loyal, and follows me absolutely everywhere.

If your dogs could change one thing about Londoners, what would it be?

That they don't stop and pet them!

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dogs could speak, which actors should do their voices?

Tough question!

For Goose, Kate Winslet.

For Alfie, Adam Sandler!

If your dogs could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

What would you like to do more often?

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

As Daryl said on the American version of The Office: "You will win this in the end. It's all about heart, and character. Be your best self."

I think both the pooches have sat through that episode of the American Office, enough to know that it's good, universal advice!

Visit Nikki Kelly's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Kristen Weber & Sampson

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Kristen Weber, and this is my 8-year-old male pug, Sampson. I'm a freelance book editor and I run Shelf Pleasure, a website for women who love to read.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Sampson is my co-editor and cuddling companion while I read. He'll take every chance he can get to sit on my lap. I usually put a pillow on top of him and then my computer or book on top of that.

What's brewing?

Chocolate is my vice over coffee, and you can usually find me drinking a hot chocolate whatever the season.

Any treats for you or Sampson on this occasion?

Sampson's favorite treat is cheese. We usually take a 2:00 break and share a piece. But don't worry, he gets plenty of exercise. Every hour or so we take a break outside and then we also take 2-3 bigger walks during the day. It is good to take breaks from lying down all day (Sampson) or editing / reading all day (me!).

How were you and Sampson united?

I always wanted a pug, but the obsession grew even stronger when my husband worked as an assistant on one of the Men in Black movies and came home every day sharing stories about the pugs who played Frank. In fact, I began talking about my future pug Sampson so much that my co-workers at Hachette Book Group thought he was real even before he joined my family - and gave me a collar and treats for him at a Christmas party. I had to confess he wasn't real yet! But as soon as I found a dog friendly apartment in NYC (nearly impossible!) I brought him home and he's been part of my family ever since.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

I thought Sampson was a good name for a breed that's a lot of dog in a small body. We call him Sammy for short.

You and Sampson are professional editors: what's the division of labor when you tackle a manuscript?

I do all the heavy lifting. He does the cuddling and the snoring.

Cat, postman, squirrel…?

Postman! There's a barking party when our mail is delivered.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Nothing that requires too much work, but he'll play with a squeaky-toy if there's a chance there's food in it.

Who is Sampson's best pet-pal?

Sampson's two best dog friends live a few houses down from us and he always stops at their house and stares longingly even if they're nowhere to be seen.

What is Sampson's best quality?

He's incredibly loyal. All he wants to do is be with his people.

If Sampson could change one thing about you, what would it be?

He probably wants me to sit down on the couch for even longer periods of time, so he can cuddle in!

If Sampson could answer only one question in English, what would you ask him?

Are you really that tired?

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which Sampson could speak, who should voice him?

That's a tough one. I imagine Sampson probably has his own voice itching to get out. He always looks at me like he has so much to say, if he had the voice to say it.

The only problem will be that he'll probably just demand more food. If I don't feed him right at 5:00, watch out!

Visit Shelf Pleasure and Kristen Weber's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Angel Musk & Ellie, Kumori, Tessa, Tucker, and Micah

Who is in the photo at right?

I am Angel Musk, a Mother of 3 boys, full-time worker, and part-time writer. I am a big dog lover! I share my home with Ellie, Kumori, Tessa, Tucker, and Micah. Micah is the son of Tessa and Tucker and is pug/Chihuahua mix. This is Tucker and me working. All of my dogs are under 7 years old.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

My book launch, Essence of Time. This is my first novel and I am really excited about it!

What's brewing?

Well, I can't stand the taste of coffee. So my favorite beverage is McDonald's Sweet Tea!

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

I ordered my dog children a 3 Month Bark Box Subscription. So far they are loving the treats and toys.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Ellie, was already named when we got her. She is named after the mammoth from the movie, Ice Age 2. Kumori, also had that name when we rescued her from the shelter. Her previous owner were friends of ours. Tessa, was received from a friend that no longer wanted her. Tucker, was from Tennessee and we had to throw in a little Kentucky pride for his name. Micah, was born from Tessa and when he came out he looked like he was wearing a mask like a raccoon. So we searched the internet for native American names for a raccoon.

How were you and your dogs united?

We were very fortunate to have these dogs enter our lives. Most were spur of the moment that turned into forever homes. We wouldn't have it any other way.

How do your dogs help--or hinder--your writing?

They like to snuggle up next to me. Tucker, the Chihuahua tries to climb under my laptop because it's so warm.

Have any actual dogs inspired fictional dogs in your published work?

There are dogs in my book but they were not my main focus.

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

Children!

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Kumori will take sticks off trees to chew and play fetch with. She will also play with Frisbees and balls. She also likes to chase UPS trucks!

If your dogs could change one thing about Kentuckians, what would it be?
Not a thing, they love Kentuckians!

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dogs could speak, which actors should do their voices?

Queen Latifah for Ellie, Robert Downey Jr. for Tucker, Sandra Bullock for Tessa, Nicole Kidman for Kumori, and Ashton Kutcher for Micah.

If your dogs could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

Are you happy?

Visit Angel Musk's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Kim Gifford & Alfie and Waffles

Who is in the photo at right?

These are my two-year-old girls: Alfie, my fawn pug and Waffles, my black pug. My name is Kim Gifford and I’m a writer, photographer and memoir-writing instructor. I also create digital collages, often featuring my pugs. I love sharing stories in a variety of forms.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We stopped to take in this scenic vista by Schroon Lake after attending the annual Halloween Pug Party and Parade in Chestertown, NY. My two girls and I donned pink wigs and rhinestones so they could pose as Pop Stars in the parade.

What's brewing?

The mug proclaims Dunkin Donuts, but I’m afraid the coffee was a generic black blend from a local gas station.

Any goodies to go with the coffee?

I had a convenience store donut.

Any treat for your dogs on this occasion?

The pugs enjoyed a feast of cheeseburger and string cheese provided by my traveling companions who attended the pug parade with me.

How were you and your dogs united?

Alfie was a true gift following the death of my 1.5 year-old pug Mira, who died from anaphylactic shock following her distemper shot. Though it was not the fault of Mira’s breeder in any way, she felt bad enough to gift me with another pug. She had no puppies on hand so she worked out a deal with a friend to get me one in her next litter. Shortly after, I learned that my good friend, another pug breeder, also had a litter of black pugs about to be born. I couldn’t take another puppy at that time, but Waffles and I bonded from the get-go as did she and Alfie and a year later when my elderly pug Vader died, Alfie and I finally claimed Waffles as our own.

How did your dogs get their names? Do they have any nicknames?

I often call them “My Girls.” Alfie was born on January 8, Elvis’s birthday. Her full name is NW Elvis’ Birthday Girl. Her call name is “Alfie” after my good friend, mentor and counselor, Alphonse, who passed away a few weeks before her birth. My family calls her “Alf-i-nator.” Waffles, whose full name is I.W. Waffles received her name from her breeder. She was named after a friend of a friend, I.W. Wackernagel. Ms. Wackernagel used to talk about her dog Waffles, whom she considered the dog of her lifetime. Waffles’ breeder loved the name and thus dubbed her in Ms. Wackernagel’s honor. I typically call her Waffi.

Cat, squirrel, postman...?

All of the above. If something’s in their backyard, my girls will chase anything!

Tennis ball, stick, squeaky-toy...?

Ball for Alfie, Squeaky-toy for Waffles. Waffles didn’t have many toys at her breeders’ house and thus, now hoards them, sometimes carrying them in and out with her when she goes potty. Alfie loves to bat tennis balls and ball-shaped objects around.

Where is your dogs' favorite place for an outing?

They love the local dog park and visiting Mama Joan’s, Waffles’ breeder’s house.

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

Definitely each other. From their first meeting as puppies these two have mostly had eyes for each other. They also enjoy playing with Waffles’ sister, Griffles, when they see her.

What is each dog's most endearing quality?

Alfie watches me all the time. We have this game. I will blow a puff of air in her direction and she charges me cuddling her head in my armpit and making gentle nibbling gestures as if she’s eating corn on the cob. I’m not sure what it means, but she is so gentle it’s like tender love bites.

Waffles is more independent and restrained, kinda’ cat-like, but when she’s happy she will roll over on her side and expose her belly wanting to be loved. It’s endearing because she seems to be saying, “I trust you.”

If your dogs could change one thing about you, what would it be?

They’d have me stay home more!

What is each dog's proudest moment?

Alfie is a show dog. Last year she showed at Pug Nationals. Waffles made the Dog Wall of Shame for tipping over trashcans. Both received a medal and certificate for being “The Prettiest” costumed pugs at the Pug Parade. But Waffles’ would probably consider her proudest moment anytime she can sneak upstairs and get some garbage without me catching her.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dogs could speak, which actors should do their voices?

Oh, Waffles’ would sound smart and low like Jodie Foster in The Silence of the Lambs. Alfie? She’s more like Renée Zellweger.

If your dogs could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

Why? Why did you chew up my glasses? Why did you just come in from outside and pee on the rug? Why are you so damn cute? Why???

Visit Kim Gifford's Pugs and Pics blog and Facebook page.

--Marshal Zeringue

Colin Purrington & Ling-Ling

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Colin Purrington, and I blog about photography, food, and gardening at the unimaginatively-named "http://colinpurrington.com". I'm sitting with Ling-Ling, a one year-old female pug. My hair isn't usually that big, for the record. The wind picked up during that shot only, but I liked how Ling-Ling was trying to drink my coffee. Her hair is always like that -- only pug I've ever seen with mohawk cowlick.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We were on the way to the barn where my daughter takes riding lessons. We stop there (Burlap and Bean, in Newtown Square, PA) regularly to pick up coffee beans (roasted in-house to perfection) and to eat fresh waffles with ice cream. Ling-Ling loves to come to the barn to play with the other dogs, but they have no interest in playing with her. She also likes to jump at the ponies, who also have no interest in her. That's a theme in her life. But we play with her.

What's brewing?

Ethiopia Harrar, straight up. I love milk, but only add it to my coffee when the coffee is bad and needs to be masked. Milking good coffee is a crime.

Any treats for you or Ling-Ling on this occasion?

Sadly, no treats for Ling-Ling or me. But I bought my daughter a bunch of cake pops, and Ling-Ling got the inevitable crumbs.

How did Ling-Ling get her name? Any nicknames?

All fawn pugs look like gyoza, those Asian dumplings with prominent folds sealing in the lard and such. And since pugs are Asian in origin we really had to name her something like Gyoza or Dumpling, although those were a bit too obvious. So we went with Ling-Ling, which has the added benefit of being a company that makes frozen gyozas (you can buy them at Target...they are actually pretty good). Sometimes we call her Cha Siu Bao (those spongy buns filled with barbecued pork that you get at dim sum restaurants). Occasionally, Loaf. All the nicknames are all mildly derogatory and make fun of her belly. We are bad people.

How were you and Ling-Ling united?

I spent a long time trying to find a female pug puppy, and eventually hooked up with Gas Hollow Pugs in the Pocono Mountains, about 3 hours north of me. Even if you aren't in the market for a pug, I think everyone should put on their bucket list, "Visit pug breeder," just so they can witness a boil of puglets tearing around. Yes, I just made up "boil of puglets" — a "herd" just doesn't do justice to the chaos. They just don't corner well, among other issues. Among a lot of other issues, in fact. Anyway, that's how we were united. She didn't immediately like me, and spent the whole drive home avoiding direct eye contact. Their eyes bug out in an alarming way and thus they have peripheral vision to rival that of stalk-eyed flies (there are such things, and they are truly freaky, trust me), so when they look at you askance it's really quite the look.

You taught evolutionary biology at Swarthmore College for 15 years. What's an insight into that subject that relates to dogs?

One feature of pugs is that they have tightly curled tails. So curled that they collect leaves and other detritus (personal observation) when they are outside. We put toys in the tail to see how long it takes her to extract them (again, we are bad people). Why so curled? Surely partly it's because the breed standard includes curly tails, so breeders don't breed the straight-tailed mutants. But the ultimate reason, perhaps, is that past artificial selection for intense friendliness caused the inadvertent curling. Here's why: if you take a population of wolves and continually breed only the friendliest, after a few generations you'll notice that the tails get curlier. There's just something about the alleles that cause friendliness that also make tails curl. And this is not just true of wolves — silver foxes got curly tails when domesticated. So pugs are astonishingly friendly. You could lop off a pug's legs and it would still want to be your best friend (don't try this, though; that's just my guess). Thus it's possible that the friendliness and the tail curl are related. They also lack a proper snout, and it's thought that an adult pug is actually just a dog that never fully matured ... it still has the short snout that baby dogs have when they need to nurse. All domesticated dogs are puppies to some degree...I just think pugs are the extreme example of that type of artificial selection.

Who are Ling-Ling's best pet-pals?

She doesn't really have a pal in town, unfortunately. We've been looking, but most other dogs want to eat her.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Without a doubt her favorite toy is a stuffing-free raccoon that we call, Coon. Coon drags on the ground when she runs with him, and sometimes she trips on him during a full gallop. And she knows him by name, so we can say "Where's Coon?" or "Get Coon!!!!" and she'll snap to attention and go find him. Usually. We are actually now on Coon II, since Coon I went missing. Ling-Ling loves to chew on Coon after dinner and to play fetch with him. She sometimes tries to take Coon on walkies. Coon, luckily, is washable.

What is Ling-Ling's best quality?

I'd have to say her best quality is that she uses a litter box, just like our cats do. It's beyond great to know that if I'm running late getting home, she's fine. Actually, she's better at using a litter box than one of our cats, who shall go unnamed just in case she's reading this.

If Ling-Ling could change one thing about you, what would it be?

She'd want me to lose my hearing so that her snoring wasn't so much of a problem. It's a problem. It's hard to explain how such a small package can make such a loud noise. I have deep respect for pug breeders. They probably sleep with noise-cancelling headphones.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which Ling-Ling could speak, which actor should do her voice?

Well, she'd have to be young, perky, like food, and have a Chinese accent (much better than a Pennsylvania accent). I don't know that many actresses, so perhaps Ching-He Huang could be conned into doing it. She has a gig on the Cooking Channel.

If Ling-Ling could answer only one question in English, what would you ask her?

Does it feel like your eyes are about to pop out of your head? Sure looks that way. I get alarmed when she sneezes.

If you're hired as CPBR's new CEO, what do you think Ling-Ling will like most about relocating to St Simons Island, Georgia?

It doesn't look like The Consortium for Plant Biotechnology Research is terribly interested in hiring me in any capacity. Maybe they'll invite me to give a guest lecture on plagiarism in the granting process. But I'd still love to see St Simons Island someday even if they don't call me.

Visit Colin Purrington's blog and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Luke Murphy & Costner

Who is in the photo at right?

This old, chubby guy is my ten year-old pug, Costner. He`s a loyal companion, who sleeps in his bed all day, which is strategically placed beside my writing desk.

My name is Luke Murphy. I’m an elementary school teacher who just released my debut novel, Dead Man's Hand.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

When I write, I need two things: a hot, steaming mug in front of me and my loyal companion in his bed, watching over me.

What's brewing?

I usually drink tea, but since my wife received a new Keurig for Christmas, I`ve been tempted by her French Vanilla flavoured coffee.

Any treats for you or your dog on this occasion?

I’m spoiling myself today. My wife just received a Keurig at Christmas, and I help myself to her selection of brews.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

I think you know where the name Costner comes from…that’s right, the actor, Kevin Costner. My wife and I love his movies, and he’s one of my favourite actors. We just call him Cos for short, and my daughters are crazy about him.

How were you and your dog united?

My wife, who was my girlfriend at the time, had always wanted a Pug. I was playing professional hockey in Georgia, and my wife got lonely when I went on road trips, which sometimes lasted for days. When my mother-in-law saw an ad in the paper for the dog, she called me up and together we bought it for my wife. That was in 2003, so he’s been around a lot longer than my kids.

Does your dog make any contribution to your writing?

He’s a trusty, loyal companion. He sleeps in his bed, which is situated in my writing office beside my desk, while I write. For my novel Dead Man's Hand, one of my main characters has a dog and I transferred many of Costner’s quirks and habits to the fictional dog in my story.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

He’s actually getting old now (and lazy), just celebrated his tenth birthday and has grown out of his toys. But he still enjoys my daughters’ stuffed animals.

Squirrel, postman, cat...?

Costner is one of the friendliest, outgoing dogs I have ever seen. He loves everyone, and wants to be friends with anyone (cats, squirrels, bigger dogs, etc.)

What is your dog's best quality?

Loyalty. That’s an easy one. He’s been with me for a long time, through thick and thin. He sleeps in our bed every night and is a big cuddler. He loves the warmth, hates our Canadian winters, and spends as much time in bed under the covers as he can.

If your dog could change one thing about you, what would it be?

His diet. I’m very strict when it comes to Costner’s food and portions. He is on weight-control food, and only gets two servings a day.

I also monitor his treats. Being a small dog with short legs, his weight is always a concern.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dog could speak, which actor should do his voice?

I’m sure you’ve seen the Pug in Men in Black, and everyone we meet calls him Franklin from that movie. If there was a movie on my life and we needed a voice over for Costner, I’d say the best candidate would probably by Clint Eastwood—with that old, hard-edged, husky voice.

If your dog could answer only one question in English what would you ask him?

Who do you like better, mommy or daddy?

Visit Luke Murphy's website, blog, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Linda Lombardi & Lilly and Rose

Photo credit: Paul McRae

Who is in the photo at right?

That is a photo of me, Linda Lombardi, and my Number One Pug, Lilly, in which I'm signing a copy of my second book, Animals Behaving Badly.

Lilly is going to be 14 in a few weeks.

I am a writer, unemployed zookeeper, and recovering academic.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Right now this is a daily routine, as I am writing more or less full time, and also I am stuck at home with a broken wrist. Unfortunately I was injured while ice skating rather than by tripping over a pug, which would have made a great story for the blog. Did you know that 86,000 people a year end up in the emergency room after falls caused by pets?

But you know, I'm a fiction writer, and that reality is kind of boring, so let's make something up. I'm going to pretend it's June and Lilly and Rose and I waiting for croissants at our favorite place in Rehoboth Beach [photo left].

What's brewing?

Tea. Darjeeling. Hot.

I'm not a regular coffee drinker. I save it for a special treat, or for when I really need to be awake. It is an amazingly effective drug when you're not accustomed to it.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

We are trying to resist opening this box of Girl Scout cookies. The peanut butter sandwich kind.

How did Lilly and Rose get their names? Any aliases?

My husband finally agreed to get a dog one day when we slid into the ditch on the side of the road on our way to a cross-country ski center. We made some kind of deal - I can't recall the details - about what kind of car he could buy next if I could get a dog.

So when we got to the ski place I started thinking of a name for this theoretical dog, and they had a poster announcing an event called Tour de Lilly. It was named after the mother of the guy who owned the ski place, an independent cross-country skiing woman back in the days when women didn't do those things. Fitting, I guess, for the independent, sassy girl pug I ended up with.

Rose was already named Rose by the pug rescue we adopted her from. I would never have given them a cute pair of matching flower-sounding names on my own, but it seemed like fate. In her foster home there were two Roses so they called her Piggy Rose, because she made a particularly piggy noise when sniffing at things. We still call her that sometimes. I have always been fond of pigs.

How were you and your dogs united?

After we got the car out of the ditch, I tried to get a pug from breed rescue. Nowadays rescue pugs are (sadly) very easy to find, but back then, the breed was much less popular. For the first few years I had Lilly, people would stop me and say "My grandmother had a pug!" because that was the last time they'd seen one. Now they're more likely to stop me and tell me about all their friends and relative who have one.

But things were very different 14 years ago, so the rescue had very few pugs, and wouldn't adopt to me because I had cats. They said this was because of the danger of claws to big puggy eyes. Which made sense to me until I actually got a puppy and discovered that puppies play by biting each other's faces. Live and learn.

So I got Lilly as a puppy from an ad in the newspaper. This was very controversial among my friends who said I should go to a responsible breeder, but the show dogs have such flat faces that it causes health problems, and I was reluctant to support this trend.

I wouldn't do it this way today and wouldn't recommend it to anyone, but times have changed a lot - I could probably adopt ten great pugs tomorrow from the regional pug rescue.

I didn't get another dog till Lilly was 7, because I was pretty sure she wanted to be an only child. But I had gotten a dog partly because my husband wouldn't go for walks with me, and now Lilly had started to be reluctant to go for walks with me, if I wasn't offering a ride to somewhere exciting to buy dog cookies.

So I decided it was time for an emergency backup pug whether Lilly liked it or not. My argument to her was that now she would have a staff to delegate walks to.

Rose came from pug rescue. She had been a breeder dog in what sounded like a small-scale puppy mill. She was blind in one eye and mostly blind in the other, from an untreated eye condition. She didn't know how to walk on a leash or go up and down stairs. But the adoption listing for her had the most adorable picture you have ever seen, and the description said she was "perfect." I thought, these people must know their pugs. Surely that's not a word they use lightly. So we asked to meet her.

I should say, I am not the sort of person who rescues animals because I feel sorry for them. She was cute and sweet and the right dog for the household at the time - more laid back than Lilly. So it wasn't some kind of good deed. She is in most ways a much easier dog to own than Lilly is, and a really good example of how resilient dogs are and why everyone should consider adopting an adult dog.

Do Lilly and Rose appear in Animals Behaving Badly?

Lilly probably ought to, but no, since the book is not based on my personal experience, but on extensive research. I am pretty sure it's the only book you'll find shelved under Humor that has a twenty-five page bibliography. There is a whole chapter about dogs, though, which I highly recommend as a caution to all dog owners.

My first book, the mystery The Sloth's Eye, features a zookeeper who has two pugs, and they're not exactly mine (for one thing, they're a boy and a girl). But like all the animals in that book, the characterizations are definitely based on my personal observation.

What contribution do your dogs make to your writing?

I generally give Lilly credit for the fact that I have a nonfiction writing career. My first paying gig was writing a pets and animals column for the Associated Press. I appeared to be qualified for this partly because I had worked as a small mammal keeper at a zoo. But I was actually qualified more because of the years I had spent seriously studying dog training on my own, starting when Lilly was a puppy.

Squirrel, postman, cat....?

They love the mailman. They announce his arrival with great enthusiasm. Even now that Lilly is mostly deaf, she joins in when Rose hears him.

Cats... we also have two cats. If they had Facebook pages they'd have that "It's Complicated" relationship status with everyone else in the household.

Who are Lilly and Rose's best pet-pals?

Rose thinks that Lilly is her best friend. She loves to cuddle with her. This is kind of pathetic because Lilly actually doesn't seem to care for this much, but poor Rose, with her deprived background, has never had another friend. So she doesn't know what a crummy best friend Lilly is.

What is each dog's best quality?

Lilly is dangerously clever, opinionated, bossy... oh, you said "best"? Actually, I like those things about her. I like a dog that is a bit of a challenge, one that talks back. We're a good match.

Rose is a perfect complement because no matter how much you love the kind of dog Lilly is, two of her would be a bit much. Here's the difference between Rose and Lilly: When I first got Rose, when I came home, she would actually greet me at the door! Just like everyone else says dogs do! I'd never seen that before. Lilly would lie on the couch and thought it was my job to walk over there and pet her.

Rose will also still come for walks with me most of the time because she thinks that anything I suggest will be fun! Whereas Lilly wants to know exactly what's in it for her before she makes up her mind.

If Lilly and Rose could change one thing about you, what would it be?

They would want me to take them to the farmers' market for a brioche every morning instead of just on Saturdays. I'm pretty sure they blame this on me because they don't understand that the market is only there on Saturdays.

If Lilly and Rose could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

I know what Lilly wants me to ask: "Is there any other way I can serve you, madam?"

Visit the Animals Behaving Badly Blog. To read Linda's newspaper and web writing and sample chapters of The Sloth's Eye, visit her website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Kathy Opie & Dillon and Dublin

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Kathy Opie, wife and mother of three children, twenty-three, nineteen and seventeen. I am a writer who also works part-time as a receptionist at Microsoft.

My dogs Dillon and Dublin are black pugs. Dillon is a seven year old male and Dublin is the female and she is four and half years old.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I promised myself a Starbuck’s pumpkin spice latte now that they are back in season. We are on our way to Luther Burbank dog park on the shores of Lake Washington near Seattle.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

We always bring a couple of treats for our puggies. This time it’s Zuke’s Mini Naturals; high in flavor low in calories. As you can see our Dublin [photo left] is a tad overweight. We call them “potty treats” because we are trying to reinforce not “going” in the house but outside on the grass. It was difficult training Dublin, whose breeder had taught her to potty in a kitty litter box inside a dog pen. Once outside the pen and away from her box, she felt any surface made for a good place to “go”. She also didn’t like going outside where it was cold and wet. Dillon soon followed her example. We’ve found the treats and lots of praise have greatly improved the amount of “accidents” we have in the house.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Dillon was a surprise birthday gift for our three children. My husband Paul researched black pug breeders and found one outside the Portland, OR area who would be having a litter of puppies born around the end of November. All three of our children have their birthday within the same week, so the timing was perfect! Paul discovered he was interviewed as much as a potential pug parent for our new puppy as he was asking questions of the breeder. We didn’t care if our puppy was a boy or girl, just healthy. Then a very sad thing happened. Paul’s mother fell seriously ill and he was called home to see her at the hospital. During his visit he called to tell me of her sudden passing. The phone rang minutes later and I heard the catch in Paul’s voice as he wistfully informed me that the puppies had been born. It was August. I told him we would name the puppy Dillon after his mother. “She would have liked that,” I could feel Paul’s smile and then I heard him hang up the phone too emotional to continue our conversation. Dillon [photo right] came home to us all six wiggly black wrinkly furry pounds of him late in November, much to the squeals and shrieks of our delighted children and exchange student. We call him Dilbert or Dill pickles sometimes.

After a year or so we realized that we didn’t have enough pug for our family. Everyone kept fighting over lap time, cuddle, snuggle and play time. We decided Dillon needed a sibling and so I asked my husband for a new pug for my birthday in May. I wanted a fawn pug to match our black pug and again Paul found a breeder. This time our breeder lived in Olympia, WA. The visits were easier and this time weren’t in secret. Deciding on a name this time was easy. Our kids decided they wanted a name that would match Dillon’s. It needed to be Irish and begin with a D. Our eldest daughter found Dublin on an internet list and it stuck. We often call her Dubs, or Dubbie. Dublin’s mother was a beautiful apricot fawn, her father a strong show black pug named Dillon. Her mother threw seven pups all black except one male. Our breeder insisted with an alpha male like Dillon we needed to chose a female for our next dog. We ended up with two black pugs. We picked her up at the breeder the end of may and it was love at first sight. Dublin although a black pug has a slight sable tinge to her coat, especially in summer. Dublin is generally the “alpha” of our dogs except when it comes to food, where Dillon will exert his “alpha” tendencies.

Do your dogs contribute to your writing?

This is my first writing about my dogs, but it has been so much fun that I will continue doing more of it.

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

Dublin loves her brother Dillon and our youngest cat Misha. I will catch them napping on the back of the couch soaking up the sun in the afternoon. Dillon loves his soccer ball and most any furry squeaky toy. They both love playing with all of us.

What is each dog's best quality?

Dillon is a very handsome pug who struts with confidence and is loyal to his family. He will bark and sniff at anyone new who comes to call. Dublin is a very friendly dog who loves being with people. She seems to have a continual “smile” on her face and makes you feel like you are the most favorite person she has ever seen, even if you’ve been home several times in one day.

If your dogs could change one thing about you, what would it be?

They would ask for more walks and probably more treats. The first we should grant, the second we should do less of.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dogs could speak, which actors should do their voices?

I think Dillon being a handsome compact pug with attitude would make a great Mark Wahlberg. Dublin’s voice would definitely be Ellen Degeneres. I can imagine her friendly perky voice coming from Dublin. Dublin is definitely larger than Ellen but the personalities are too great a match for me to dismiss.

If your dogs could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

Dillon: “What do you think of us?” With those large pensive, eager eyes, I would love to know what you are thinking.

Dublin: “What would you like to do or be if you were a human being? With that winning personality you could do just about anything.”

Visit Kathy Opie's A Little Something to Chew On blog and Facebook page.

--Marshal Zeringue

Dayna Lorentz & Peter and Kerry

Who is in the photo at right?

I am Dayna Lorentz, author of the Dogs of the Drowned City series from Scholastic and No Safety in Numbers, the first book in a trilogy from Dial. With me are Peter, the handsome yellow Pug-Boston Terrier mix (or Pugston, as we call him), and Kerry, the lovely if marginally overweight Pug-Jack Russell Terrier mix (or Jack Puggle Terror, as we call her). They’re both shelter rescues, and we think they’re around nine years old.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Peter enjoys an outing, and Kerry’s trying to work off a caffeine addiction. Just kidding! They love to follow me around wherever I go.

What's brewing?

That would be a Caramel Macchiato for me, a black coffee for Pete, and a Mocha for Kerry.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

I’ll take a multigrain bagel toasted with cream cheese, Pete and Kerry will split an egg sandwich.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Peter got his name from the foster mother who cared for him. We liked the name and kept it. He is most commonly referred to as Peetles or my Bud-dog, though recently I’ve taken to calling him Budsy-woofer.

Kerry’s full name is Kerry Edwards because we got her right before the 2004 election and were hoping that naming the dog this way would swing the election in our favor. She is called the Bird-dog because when we first got her and tried to crate train her, she would whistle like a bird when left in the crate. It was bizarre, completely undogly!

How were you and your dogs united?

Internet dating, also known as Petfinder.com.

Do your dogs contribute to your writing?

In the sense that they contribute to my sanity, yes.

What's the connection of your dogs to the dogs in your Dogs of the Drowned City series?

I based two of the dogs in Dogs of the Drowned City on my pets! Callie, who is Shep’s loyal friend throughout the series, is based entirely on Kerry. Any time I wondered what Callie would do, I merely looked at the Bird-dog and immediately got an idea. Frizzle, the tough French bulldog, is based on Peter. He will pick a fight with any dog in the park, even if they outweigh him by fifty pounds. He’s not afraid to hump the leg of a Rottweiler to show that dog who’s boss.

Rabbit, postman, cat....?

Kerry has a thing for squirrels and chipmunks. She loves to hunt little rodents. However, she has not, as of yet, had much success in that department. As for cats, her best friend is our Maine Coon cat, Oscar.

Peter is not terribly interested in hunting. He’s more of a couch snuggler.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Peter will go nuts for a plastic squeaky toy. Kerry loses it for Red Dot, a laser pointer.

What is each dog's best quality?

Peter is the best friend I could have hoped for. Kerry is an excellent guard dog and my exercise buddy.

If your dogs could change one thing about you, what would it be?

They would make me let them upstairs so they could sleep on the bed.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dogs could speak, which actors should do their voices?

My brother does this voice for Peter which seems totally wrong to me, but has kind of infected my thinking on the matter. Still, Pete’s a tough guy—maybe Bruce Willis? For Kerry, I think maybe Felicia Day or Alyson Hannigan.

If your dogs could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

I’m not sure I have any questions for Peter. We understand each other without words.

Kerry: From whence does the extreme anxiety come?

Visit Dayna Lorentz's website and blog.

--Marshal Zeringue