School Boy

Yes, we went to school tonight, for the first time.  Max, you were actually nice and calm with all of the other dogs.  No barking! You'd think that the almost three years I've training Canon, to say nothing of the other dogs I've trained, that this would be a piece of cake.

 

Thanks to Evi, the sit was a piece of cake.  Watching- OK.  Walking a few steps next to me?  Let's just say we need some work.  Ditto for downs.  This was really hard for me with Canon, and is probably where he learned to be wary of Evi.  It was slightly easier with you, Max, because you're lighter weight, but actually, this whole obedience thing is another ball of wax (or tennis ball) with you, little one.

A Private Lesson

Max, you've been with us for over two months, and I've barely gotten you to sit on command or with enticement, so today you visited Evi for a private lesson.  And yes, she worked a miracle.  She got you to sit and showed me how to do it.  You still need enticement.  You still need some pressure on your rear end, but you do sit.

 

Evi had some theories about why you don't sit.  Dysplasia.  A tail that hurt too much when it was broken.  I may never know why, but am encouraged that you can.

 

Keep it up,  my little boy.  You are going to do great!

 

Almost Two Months...

We're pretty close to two months together now, Max.  You still won't sit on command, but every day is a new adventure.  You're comfortable jumping on our bed now, although you don't like to stay for long.  I relish the times you fall asleep right next to me.

 

Yesterday, while I was at an agility seminar with Canon, you stole a package of two beef tendons (yes, I'm sure it wasn't Caprice), leaving the packaging on the floor.  If only you could tell me whether or not you shared with Caprice.

 

You and Canon are starting to play together a little more, without you running away, tucking your tail.  You have even growled back at him.  Tough boy!

 

We've begun walking on a halter, which means you aren't always choking yourself.  The halter helped Michael hold you today so I could shave a little hair off your face.  A monumental occasion!

 

Sweet Dreams

Someone spent his first night in our bed last night, comfortably curled up between Michael's and my pillows.  It was great to think you were at home with us, Max.  When Caprice jumped up for a little while, it was our first Three Dog Night.