Obedience Class Week 1

[Hazel & Chester Wayte]

We signed up Chester for a Puppy Socialization class through our vet. The Instructor is a RVT at the Vets.

She is great - It is all about Puppies developing good manners through positive reinforcement. There are 3 other puppies in the class-  A Springer, a Brittany Spaniel, and a Boxer mix.(the Springer is the only Female)

 

The class is broken up into off leash playtime, a lesson or 2 , a pee break, another lesson- or 2 and playtime. We get printouts of the lessons and Homework assignments.

So Chester is the physically the largest of the puppies (not the oldest).

He did really really well with the lessons Sit, Leave it, Stay.

 

The Playtime rules are all owners ignore any dogs that approach them, let your puppy play off leash, the instructor will separate pups when she feels there is a need.

The other puppies were VERY rambunctious..Chester would sniff the Springer appropriately named Gracie- She is a sweetie- full of energy. The other puppies roughhoused a bit and every so often would come and try to engage Chester in the fun. Chester would have nothing to do with it.. he would cower or quietly observe from behind me or DH.

At one time the  Brittany Spaniel (who parents take him to a Hunting club)..Started to play chase Chester which also includes nipping and growling.. I have to say I was on the edge of my chair- and I am sure Chester sensed my Anxiety.. Chester let out this gutteral cry ( that I hadn't heard since the initial crate trials.) My heart broke and it was everything in my power to remain seated on the bench- and not dive in and scoop up Chester.

The Instructor did give the Spaniel a time out- "as Chester was telling him he didn't want to play anymore.."

So now onto homework.. The Instructor assures us Next week Chester will be a little more relaxed.

I think these classes will be good for both me and Chester.

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

I remember how tough it was to stay calm in the puppy class when your little doodle starts making some hideous noise!! It's a horrible feeling! The same thing happened at Tara's first class!  I hope that Chester (and you!) enjoys his remaining classes as they will be a good opportunity for him to met other dogs and people.