Cooper's First Snow

Wow! Who knew how much fun snow is to play in? Certainly not Cooper. For his first snow, he was unsure, but quickly discovered how to run and tunnel with his nose. Of course, after a while of playing, he got snow balls stuck all over his fur. His legs were covered so that he could barely walk.

Cooper "Trades"

One of the first commands I teach my dogs is to "trade". They give me the toy they have and I give them another toy of equal value. Works well to exchange a wet, slobbery toy for a drier one, or my husband's good leather work gloves for a special toy. (you would think he wouldn't leave those on the floor after numerous times like this). Cooper came into the room with one of my sheepskin slippers. I traded with him and went to put the slipper back in the bedroom. There, next to the left slipper, was his favorite toy. He had taken it upon himself to "trade" his toy for my slipper. He knew he wasn't supposed to go in there in the first place and he is not to play with my slippers, but evidently it is okay if you trade something of value. He is sure keeping me on my toes.

Training

Copper is now 4 months old. A typical puppy, he likes to play and chew and play some more. He has been going to Puppy Kindergarten for a little over a month now. It is amazing how quickly he is learning.
We started out with "sit" and "down". Because there are treats involved, he has learned these two things very quickly. He really likes the "come" command. He will go to anyone with treats. He doesn't even care if he is not the one being called. We also learned the importance of "social handling" where you look at the teeth, mouth, ears and feet. Also the pup needs to get used to someone holding him while getting an examination. Now at home we are working at "stay" and "stand". Both are still a work in progress.
He is also learning some agility while at class. He loves the A-frame which has transferred nicely to the ramp he will be shown on. He can also do a tunnel and a tire. There has been no jumping yet, so as to not damage growth plates.
The keys to good training are patience, consistency and repetition. It is important that he practices every day. Something I need to remember as well.
Next I think I will teach him to "high five" (or is it 4?)

Fall Pikinik

Sadie and Cooper went on the annual fall piknik today. Sadie has gone every year but this was Cooper's first time. He is only 4 months old. The weather was great and the colors were beautiful. We got some great pictures. Cooper of course found a whole patch of plants filled with stickers. As owners of fuzzy dogs it is always "Have brush will travel". Still took quite a while to get rid of all those stickers.