Super Dogs

Rico graduated from Super Dogs class today. Offered by Gail at A Good Dog's Life in West Asheville, this class really helped my kangaroo dog settle and focus and temper his shenanigans.

Rico loves everyone and everything and can't wait to share that love by full on frontal hugs...he is at least 5 feet tall while standing on his hind legs; crotch poking; spinning and what to me is general hilarity but may be a bit over the top for most amongst us).

Gail is all about positive training techniques. I use a clicker, but you don't have to. Treats are essential, but toys work for dogs who stop eating treats when they are out in public. For the last 6 weeks, the group has met in various places around town to work on manners. We've been to Pritchard Park, Carrier Park, someone's house. We've worked on behaving around other dogs, doorbell manners, walking on the leash in crowded areas. There is lots of personal attention, and lots of time to practice. Gail starts a new session next Monday, August 9, so be sure to call to join the fun. We are going to Bent Creek.

Here's what I learned today--for an excitable pup like mine, a brief puppy play date before class can do wonders for boosting puppy focus during class (Thanks, Tena and Bertie), and Rico really likes Stella & Chewy"s Bison treats. So did Bertie, and she is my new best friend.

Here's what else I love about Super Dogs. It is 6pm and Rico has been out cold since we got home at noon. A tired dog really is a super dog.