Today we started some new games around focus with eye contact, problem solving which hand had the treat, and leave it. They all did well. Unfortunately the recording of the first two failed but I’m including Shazam as an example.
They had some time trying out a Lick Mat (big dog leftovers from yesterday’s blowdry) and some Toppl puzzles (pictured to the right, like a Kong but less wasteful and better for puppies). Both were a hit! Though I have tried offering hooves stuffed with their raw meals, they haven’t been crazy about them whether fridge-cold or frozen. Historically hooves with frozen raw food have been a favorite of teething puppies so I feel it’s worth another try. I like using a bit of liverwurst as a coating before adding other goodies so the goodies are harder to get out. I will freeze leftover liverwurst in ice cube trays for future use.
We finished the day with a fun 2-Paws-Up with the whole family. I’ll save you the clown-car antics from outtakes on the editing room floor. We did get it together for a short stint. I can tell Romeo is in need of treatment as he was reluctant to stay with his paws up. This will shift the majority of his body weight to his hind legs which are showing age with his poor structure. Don’t worry, buddy – we will get you on the massage table tomorrow. I mention this here because its a good example of the stoic ACD nature. They won’t usually limp or show you obvious pain… instead they will refuse common tasks that leave you perplexed. Any time cookies and tricks are the agenda he’s usually leading the parade so his consistent reluctance is a tell-tale sign.
This exercise is an important one for strengthening the hind legs and flutes while building rear end awareness. Over time we will add a left & right pivot around the pot which will further strengthen adductors and the hip abductors.