Doug and Helen's Weblog

I’ve been pretty lax with this, but hopefully will start entering (sorry, had to stop to spray something Pip was trying to chew with some anti-chew repellent – most brands which she loves, this one keeps her away from maybe 8 hours) where was I – yes, entering or rather adding stuff more often.

Sunday we went to puppy socialization – only 2 other dogs, a Cavalier King Charles and a Toy Poodle - Pip was keen to play with both but the TP was too shy.
Monday night though was the big night – her first Agility class. Don’t start getting worried though, this was without equipment, a puppy class run by Greg Detter. The other dogs were much older and larger puppies. Pip thought they were great, especially the one that lunged at her barking! All Pip was allowed to do though was to learn to be around them and about being on her lead. This was her first time outside on a lead. She wasn’t too keen, but is learning. She’s also learning about car travel, as this was an hour there and back. I think Loosie hated it more than Pip, as Loosie in the past was always allowed free in the back of the car, and now she’s crated. Loosie did some work also, on circling and Wait.

Thursday night we took Helen and Loosie to Mary Ann Nester’s agility class. Mary Ann had already seen a picture of Pip and in any case has miniature poodles herself. Everyone had to cuddle her. More leash work of course since this time we were just watching.

Saturday night was Loosie’s agility night – lots of big dogs and LOTS of barking. A nice indoor venue with a smooth floor. Pip again loved the other dogs, although one Collie sent her crying for a few seconds. We worked more on the leash and she is much happier with it.

During the week I’ve been trying to do some clicker work on sit and with a target stick and a floor target. We’re making some progress, but it’s slow. I’ve got to work more consistently and also work on ‘come here’. We’ve also been doing some fetch, mainly without the clicker.

PIP DID THE TUNNEL! We’ve got a child’s tunnel, and I set it up in my study. Pip was a bit dubious but only seconds after it was set up Loosie came up and quickly showed her how to do it. No problems now.

We’ve booked a weekend in Devon next week in a cottage where Loosie can do agility and Pip have yet another new experience. Socialise, socialise, socialise.

Doug