Unusual Playmates

Trekker is out, he is exhausted. What a weekend he’s had. Yesterday was two dog classes and today Trekker was invited by our dog class trainer to participate in a playdate with a few of her friends’ dogs. It was an odd assortment of dogs to gather, all (except Trekker) are either show or agility dogs. There was a Borzoi, Dalmation, Louisiana Catahoula Leopard, Ibezan Hound, a Rat Terrier, Border Collie, Belgian Sheepdog pup, and of course my corgi. A couple of these breeds I’d never seen before.

I had thought I had socialized Trekker. He’s gone numerous places and met quite a few dogs but most of them were on leash. Any off leash play has been one on one. This is the first time he’s been let loose with a number of other dogs, all were mannered. Trekker wasn’t sure how to act, he likes other dogs but is a little careful. He still hasn’t forgotten being pounced on by two Boxer puppies at our first puppy class when he was 10 weeks. This was really good for Trekker. The Borzoi was particularly taken with Trekker, it was the first corgi she had ever seen. What a size difference! Trekker’s favorite was the Belgian Sheepdog puppy. It was funny to watch him herd another herding dog. What a great experience for Trekker. He’ll be ready to go again.

A Soft Spot to Rest

Since the storm has hit and the last day of school before winter break,was cancelled we're having a lazy day at home. I couldn't believe my eyes when I walked into the family room and found Shiloh using Trekker as a pillow. I've seen Trekker trying to snuggle in on Shiloh before but never the reverse. They even cooperated and let me grab my camera.

Making Himself Comfortable

For not getting in the living and dining rooms before Trekker quickly made himself quite at home! He was not there for more than 15 minutes; it became a race track, wresting room, and finally each piece of furniture had to be tried. Finally a rest was needed.

Happy Again

Trekker's estatic that there's new snow to burrow, notice the nose.

Me...yuck! Once is enough!

Tag Answered

Here is my tag photo response, see I was a better reader this time. The 6th folder was the pictures the breeder sent me weekly. The 6th picture was the litter at 6 weeks. Can you tell which one Trekker is? The picture was taken in April and I was going nuts. I couldn't wait to get my hands on my new addition and at this picture I did not know which pup I'd get. Patience is not my virtue and I had been waiting for 8 months. I wanted to know who was mine yesterday.

And my tag goes to My Favorite People Are Dogs.

Christmas Gift Suggestion

I heard on the radio that over 80% of the dog owners buy Christmas gifts for their dogs. Mine are already bought, but I draw the line in wrapping them. For those of you who are looking for ideas may I suggest a Nylabone Double Action Chew. There are very few things that can with stand Shiloh’s strong jaws. If it can, he usually doesn’t like it. I found this chew at Target and it was an instant hit with both dogs. There was so much tussling for the chew that I went out and bought another. That wasn’t successful because they still wanted the same one. We’ve had it since early fall and it still is a favorite. Just an idea. http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2811444

Focus Needed

Trekker and I started a new round of classes on Saturday. Actually we started two. First is the beginner’s class at noon. There is no doubt that Trekker is the most obedience trained of the group of 13 dogs. But the class is a wonderful situation to run him through commands with lots of distracters. He still has a lot to learn about focus. Then at 2:00 is the advanced class. Things change in that class. There are three of us in it and it is rigorous with lots of individual attention. With so few participants I feel like I had to be on my toes all the time. I heard several time, “Joy, if you want him in TDI and agility you need to …” The class was very tailored to each of our needs. It was great, but both Trekker and I went home dragging. I did learn something else. Next time bring higher value treats to the second class. Trekker wasn’t sure he wanted to up his performance level for the same treats he had just had for the beginner’s class. Fortunately the instructor had hot dogs and hot dogs Trekker would work his heart out for.
Sunday we went to observe an advanced agility class. I have never seen focus like that. It demonstrated that Trekker and I have a really…really long way to go.

Tagged for Favorite Things

Being a reading teacher, I’m ashamed to say I didn’t read. I’ve been tagged for my 6 favorite things earlier this week and just noticed today.
1. Spending time with family and that of course involves the dogs, my boys.
2. Reading, hopefully better than I did the tagging.
3. Gardening, as long as it’s not too hot.
4. Taking the dog training classes and learning new things. I’m not sure who has the greater learning curve Trekker or me.
5. The hanging, rocking chair under our deck is the perfect place to watch the dogs, read a book, and the garden grow. It’s one of the most relaxing places I know.
6. Watching the light go on in the kids eyes when they finally get something that they couldn’t figure out before. It’s the best!

Guest Writer

Trekker Here (recorded by Luke) -Each morning, after Mom and Dad have left for work, Shiloh, Luke and I wake up and go for a morning walk. Yesterday, the sidewalks were covered in black ice and all three of us slid and skidded around the neighborhood. I accidentally one took a misstep and slipped on my side; don’t worry, it didn’t hurt and I jumped right back up! When we start our walks, I always have a lot of energy and enjoy pulling on Shiloh’s leash (even though he doesn’t like it very much)! After we walk around the block, we go home and drop Shiloh off because the doctor says his legs aren’t as strong as they used to be. Then, Luke and I go for a longer walk and work on “heel.” He says that I’m doing really well and gives me lots of treats along the way, but don’t tell Shiloh because he likes treats just as much as I do!

A Partner in Training

Luke is home from college and is becoming a great partner in dog training and care. Trekker has loved it. Rather than be kenneled as I go off to work, he's gone into Luke's room for a little play and nap time. (Shiloh goes to the pillow at the front door.) That worked perfectly until last night when Luke brought down his computer power cord. That morning Trekker had been busy redesigning it and the telephone cord as Luke slept. Monday we'll have to alter our choices. Trekker has also gotten another long walk each day; early morning with me, late morning with Luke, and evening with Rich. Trekker's in heaven! Luke has also been working with Trekker's obedience commands. Today we start a new class and we want to be well prepared. Lastly, Luke will be guest authoring blog spots. Yes, Trekker and I will take advantage of Luke's good will as long as we can. If we're lucky it will last until the train rolls out January 2nd.