5 Of Our Training Goals For the Fall
I suck at keeping goals, but when I write them down, well that’s another story. As soon as I let someone else know what I’m planning it gives me extra motivation to actually stick with it.
Our Fall Training Goals
Here’s the training goals I’d like to work on next, and since it’s in writing I’ll be sticking to them. We’ll see how it goes, and check our progress in another couple months.
Outdoor Stay
Laika can stay indoors just fine, but outside? That’s another story. Some call it selective hearing, I just know that she doesn’t listen out there. It’s all just “squirrel!” and play time to her. I’ve worked so much on her recall that I’ve ignored stay out there. I’d like to move more of our nose work outside and getting a nice stay out in the yard will be the first step.
Goal: I want Laika to “stay” while I hide stuff in the yard for her to find.
Car Manners
Laika has OK car manners for the most part, but driving by other dogs can still set her off. From what I can tell it seems to be out of frustration, and maybe a bit of stress. I’ll be working on it some more, besides being a real hazard it’s quite embarrassing when everyone stops to see what the heck all that barking is about as you drive by.
Goal: We’re going to put an end to Laika’s drive by barkings.
More Desensitization With the Dremel
I love using a dremel over nail clippers, but Laika’s still not completely convinced. She will tolerate it, but she’s still far from comfortable. With many carrots and sugar snap peas in hand I’ll be working on getting her more relaxed around it.
Goal: Have Laika remain calm as I use the dremel on full speed.
Remember to Praise “Normal” Behaviors
I miss a lot of opportunities to tell Laika she’s doing a good job when she’s pretty much doing as expected. When she calmly watches deer through the window, or when she calmly settles down at my feet I’ll remember to tell her she’s being good. I’m trying to remind myself not to take these behaviors for granted, they’re still deserving of a “good job.”
Goal: Remember to thank Laika for being a good girl more often.
Train Myself to Take Better Indoor Photos
I look at my camera and want to scream. I don’t know what half the damn buttons do, but it’s about time I figure it out. I see everyone taking awesome photos inside and I’m a bit jealous – all mine look like they’re from the late 1970’s. (with glowing eyes and all)
Goal: Read the manual and learn to take clear photos indoors.
What Are Your Fall Training Goals?
What are your fall plans with your dog? Do you have any training goals in mind? Does putting them in writing make them easier to stick to?
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