Hi everyone,
Smaug is officially 6 months old, and what an incredible month itβs been! His training is progressing so well, and every week I see him growingβnot just in his skills but also in size. At this rate, he may actually need a dragon lair! He had a few growing pains this month (those long legs didnβt come without effort), but heβs powering through like the champ he is.
This month, weβve been focusing on refining some of his key service dog skills. Smaug has been working hard on βleave itβ and impulse control, which can be challenging with all the exciting smells and sights we encounter daily. Whether itβs a dropped snack, a noisy environment, or people wanting to say hi, Smaug is learning to keep his cool and stay focused on me.
One skill heβs been particularly excelling at is βhead down.β Itβs such an important part of his eventual role, teaching him to relax and stay calm in all kinds of settings. Heβs also been working on βperch,β which helps build his confidence with balance and awareness of his body. Watching him step up and nail these cues is so rewarding.
Weβve also stepped up his public exposure training. Smaug is spending more time in busier places like grocery stores, cafes, and even a few outdoor events. Heβs getting better at ignoring distractions and settling calmly by my side when I stop. These moments are crucial for his future work, and heβs handling them with so much maturity for a puppy his age.
At home, Smaug continues to be his playful and affectionate self. He loves curling up with me after a long day of training, and his favourite stuffed dragon toy (sans stuffing) is still his go-to for a good chew session. He might be growing up fast, but heβs still that goofy, sweet puppy at heart.
This journey with Smaug has been such a rewarding experience, and Iβm so grateful for all the support from everyone cheering him on. Heβs turning into an incredible little partner, and I canβt wait to see how much he grows and learns in the coming months (hopefully not too much more in size!).
Stay tuned for more updates soon!
Shelton & Smaug
Submitted by:Β Shelton B.
Photos below…
Submitted by:Β Chrissy, PADS Puppy in Training Sitter
