Woah!
Itโs hard to believe, but Smaug is almost 6 months old! Heโs growing up so fast, and I couldnโt be prouder of the progress heโs been making.
Over the past month, Smaug has been working hard on his training, and weโre starting to see some really exciting results. Heโs been practicing his impulse control, especially in busy or distracting environments, and while itโs not always easy, heโs 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 โsettlingโ in public spaces. Whether weโre 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. Itโs not easy for a young puppy, but heโs nailing it more and more every day.
Weโve also been working on loose leash walking, and Smaug is doing so well. Heโs walking with such confidence and focus, matching my pace and staying right by my side. His wagging tail tells me heโs proud of himselfโand he should be!
At home, Smaug is showing off his playful and loving side. Heโs a big fan of, well, sleeping, and his favourite toyโa stuffed dragonโhas been getting quite a workout. Itโs a fitting choice, given his name!
As we continue on this journey, Iโm 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 Iโm excited to see what the next few months will bring.
Thank you for following along on his journeyโI know heโs going to make us all proud.
Shelton & Smaug
Submitted by: Shelton Bowes
Photos below…
Submitted by: Chrissy, PADS Puppy in Training Sitter
