Bender/BBQ

[Joanna, Zoe & Bender]

Happy Tuesday DK!

 Well we are throwing a little celebration on behalf of one of our friends.  I have a guest count of 16 adults, 7 kids, and 2 babies.  We are pretty excited as this is our first DAY time event at our house with friends since we moved in 2 years ago (usually we have gatherings at night) and we just got new patio furniture on our deck!

My dog Bender really doesn't like crowds, loud noises, chaos, and all things out of the ordinary...especially if its loud.  I would like suggestions on how to give him the best experience without him getting too stressed out.

He really doesn't do anything except follow me around.  He literally stays about an inch away from me.  Last time some kids came over and there was a problem with him growling at them but I really think it was due to their animal hats.  We went out every week and saw so many kids after this day and he had no issues with kids what-so-ever.  It might've been their hats and because he was home.  Here is the discussion.

http://www.doodlekisses.com/group/trainingmindsets/forum/topics/gro...

I was thinking that maybe he can start out in the backyard when people arrive.  And then he can greet them when every one is more scattered around the house so it doesn't seem like a big crowd all in at once.  Since it's daylight I'm thinking most people will stay in the yard and our yard is big so it won't be so overwhelming for him.  I'm pretty sure he will still stick close to me but I want him to have a pleasant experience.  I was even thinking maybe I should go out and get one of those calming scents (it couldn't hurt right?).

Please let me know if you have any ideas for my very sweet and gentle but scared and nervous baby Bender. 

Thank you!!!!

 

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Of course he had trouble with boys - they are made of 'snips and snails and puppy dog tails' while little girls are made of 'sugar and spice and everything nice' so........ :-}  Actually boys generally move in a different way from girls - faster, more large motor, less aware of themselves getting into others 'space'  all of which can be scarier for a timid dog.

[Joanna, Zoe & Bender]

Lol Nancy!!! :)