Star's maturity is starting to show in the form of increased confidence. I have curbed my frustration when he doesn't immediately respond to me and increased play time to strengthen our bond. It's working and he is responding confidently and willingly where before he was a little cautious. Sensitivity comes with intelligence in dogs and just becoming aware of my emotions around him has helped. This week's lesson:
- Maturity
Here's an excerpt:
It is really amazing the changes dogs go through when they are young and it is so apparent to me how easily we can damage their sense of well being and confidence. I hear owners complain about the myriad of strange behaviors that manifest in our dogs. Understanding the tremendous sensitivity that comes with intelligence, I can't help but wonder how many are of our own making. The more puppies that I raise, the more I realize that I am better off using lots of observation and patience with restrained correction until my puppy has had time to mature. That doesn't mean no correction, it just means not frightening, intimidating or painful correction.
Star is maturing physically as well and I will be starting some light endurance training in the next couple weeks to create lung capacity and stamina. I run the dogs from my bicycle, which is good for them, good for me, and fun for everybody.
No comments:
Post a Comment