Smaug | February 2025

Hello, loyal fans and snack providers,

It’s me, Smaug—your favorite in-training service dragon (I mean, dog) Shelton let me tackle this Pupdate!

Can you believe I’m seven months old? Neither can my legs. Seriously, they keep getting longer, and sometimes they surprise me. One minute I’m gracefully trotting, the next I’m doing an unintentional interpretive dance move. It’s called Growing Pains: The Smaug Edition. Coming soon to a sidewalk near you.

Despite my sudden expansion pack, training is going really well! I’ve been working hard on my impulse control, which basically means pretending I don’t see that delicious sandwich someone just dropped. (But between us? I totally saw it.) My “leave it” game is getting strong, and I’m learning that ignoring tasty distractions gets me even better rewards—like praise and belly rubs!

My newest skill is “head down,” which is a fancy way of saying I’m learning to rest my chin down and relax on cue. It’s great for staying calm in public, but it also makes me look extra adorable. Seriously, I’ve been melting hearts left and right. Strategic cuteness is key in this business.

I’ve also been practicing “perch,” which means stepping up onto objects and balancing like a pro. It helps with my body awareness and confidence, and let me tell you—if they ever make a Canine Ninja Warrior, I’m so ready.

Lately, I’ve also been having the best time with my favorite puppy-sitter, who always spoils me with fun and adventure. And, of course, TOYS. So many toys! My current favorites include my hockey stick, which makes me feel like a true Canadian pup, and my brand-new squeaker toy—which, according to Shelton, is the best thing ever. (Editor’s note: This is sarcasm. It is loud. Very loud. Pray for me.) But hey, I love it, and that’s what matters, right?

I’ve been going on more public outings, learning to navigate busy places like grocery stores and coffee shops. It turns out that people love seeing a puppy on duty! But don’t worry, I keep my focus on my handler. (Okay, mostly on my handler. Sometimes there are really interesting smells.)

At home, I’m still my goofy, lovable self. My stuffed dragon remains a favorite—because, let’s be honest, I am the one true Smaug—but the hockey stick and squeaker toy have definitely entered the rotation. And yes, I still fit on my bed… for now.

Thanks for following along on my journey! Big things are ahead (hopefully not just my legs), and I can’t wait to keep learning and growing—figuratively, not literally.

Until next time,

Smaug (and Shelton, my trusty sidekick)

Submitted by: Shelton Bowes