Woah!
Itβs hard to believe, but Smaug is almost 6 months old! Heβs growing up so fast, and I couldnβt be prouder of the progress heβs been making.
Over the past month, Smaug has been working hard on his training, and weβre starting to see some really exciting results. Heβs been practicing his impulse control, especially in busy or distracting environments, and while itβs not always easy, heβs learning to focus beautifully. Watching him resist the temptation to chase after new sounds, smells, or people has been incredibly rewarding.
One of his biggest accomplishments has been mastering βsettlingβ in public spaces. Whether weβre at a coffee shop, a busy park, or running errands, Smaug is learning to lie or stay standing calmly by my side, completely tuned in to me instead of everything happening around him. Itβs not easy for a young puppy, but heβs nailing it more and more every day.
Weβve also been working on loose leash walking, and Smaug is doing so well. Heβs walking with such confidence and focus, matching my pace and staying right by my side. His wagging tail tells me heβs proud of himselfβand he should be!
At home, Smaug is showing off his playful and loving side. Heβs a big fan of, well, sleeping, and his favourite toyβa stuffed dragonβhas been getting quite a workout. Itβs a fitting choice, given his name!
As we continue on this journey, Iβm so grateful for all the support from friends, family, and the amazing training community. Smaug is shaping up to be an incredible service dog, and Iβm excited to see what the next few months will bring.
Thank you for following along on his journeyβI know heβs going to make us all proud.
Shelton & Smaug
Submitted by: Shelton Bowes
Photos below…
Submitted by: Chrissy, PADS Puppy in Training Sitter
