Dog Training: Week 6

Last night was our sixth dog training class at Petsmart. There were four dogs there (Quince was out again this week). We practiced sit with stay at the beginning of class. Pete still wasn't doing anything for me, but she was taking treats. The other three dogs did really well. We also reviewed puppy push-ups. Annabelle does these really well. Pete still doesn't go down, so no push-ups for her.

We reviewed the walking by another dog and owner with the wait command. Annabelle did really well. Pete wouldn't walk. Imagine that. We also practiced the leave it command while Robert walked around with toys and treats. Pete showed some interest in the toys. I did remember to take string cheese to class last night and Pete ate some of it.

After those quick exercises, we left the room again for the follow the leader. Pete and I were the caboose since she still wasn't all that interested in walking. Each time we would stop, I would put Pete down and she would walk a little. When Robert would start walking again, Pete would usually freeze. After a couple of tries, she finally started walking! It wasn't in any kind of purposeful line, but she walked. As long as she was walking, I let her go where she wanted. We did get away from the group a couple of times, but she was walking! This didn't last long so I carried her back to the room. Robert was so proud of her! He said if he had a most improved award for the class, Pete would win, hands down.

We practiced a few more exercises in class and Robert and his dog, Skye, demonstrated some intermediate class exercises. Everyone was so proud of Pete last night. She even got applause! While we were listening to Robert explain some items, Annabelle was wandering around the floor near where I was sitting (Justin was on the stool beside me). I carry a bag to class with treats, Pete's tennis ball, and a clean towel. The bag is usually on the floor beside my stool. Annabelle helped herself to the opened package of string cheese. I think she's feeling much better after the food poisoning Monday.


I took the photo below shortly before we left the house for class. I put the harnesses on the girls and waited a few minutes before I put the carrier on the floor so they could get in. I think they were afraid I was going to leave them because they sat on the sofa and didn't move an inch. They were facing the carrier and didn't take their eyes off it (except for when I took the photo).