So, the Puppy Starter Training Class is continuing.  Here is a photo of Pete and me in the training ring and I am attempting to reward his proper heel position.  He is intent on getting the reward. I am intent on giving it.  Neither of us has really “gotten it” yet.  He is sitting askance from the proper heel position and I am feeding the treat from the wrong hand.  Together we are fumbling through.

The challenges of caring for and training a puppy is new territory for me. I’m really good with persuasion and less confident with command. In puppy training, command is required. I also get frustrated when I am listening and trying, but not performing. I am used to being competent in the things that I do, or successfully faking it until I am. Here, faking makes us both look bad.

So, we are together in the ring.  The two “puppies” both earnestly trying and getting frustrated, confused, and overwhelmed. When they say puppy class is for the owners, I guess I didn’t realize that in this class I would feel just like my puppy! So, I’m telling myself and Pete what he already knows – that being a puppy can be hard and also that learning comes with treats!  My treat will be a good canine citizen!