Mel is a black curly fleece Australian Labradoodle born to Rutland's Funnie Bunnie and Rutland's Magnum on May 12, 2003.  He arrived on July 24, 2003 and jumped into our arms around 7:30 PM.  He has been a fabulous dog and companion ever since and we wouldn't have it any other way.  He is a great family dog (with four kids and their friends hanging off of him 24/7 he ought to be!). 

Mel's personality is one that cannot be met by many breeds of dogs.  He is fun when you want him to be, and is out-of-your-way when you need him to do that too!  He's tested allergy friendly to 8-10 people with severe dog allergies, including one person allergic to dog saliva so much that they need an epi-pen to stop the reactions.  He is totally non-shedding, therefore he does require some grooming.  Going through the coat change was rough and we had no choice but to shave Mel, but his hair is growing in beautifully now and we have had seven months of mat-free hair! 

Although Mel started out rather big he slowed down when growing.  At 10 weeks old he came weighing 17 pounds however at 16 weeks old he only weighed in at 24.5 pounds.  Now, at over two years old, he stands 28 inches to his shoulder and weighs approximately 58 pounds.  He's a very agile dog, despite his size.  When in full coat he looks like a big huggable teddy bear, but with a trim or when he's wet you see the true skinny, scrawny little thing he really is! 

Below you will find pictures of Mel's Parents.  Rutland Funnie Bunnie is the cream colored dog and Rutland Magnum, Mel's father, is the chocolate dog.

Pictures courtesy of Rutland Manor.

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