Chaplin's First Puppy Class was a Success!

Chaplin had puppy class last night and it was a complete success! Hardy is the youngest puppy by several weeks (next youngest being 11 weeks old). There are some puppies that are quite a bit older and larger (like the St Bernard puppy) and Hardy seemed a bit overwhelmed during play time. He need not have worried though because there were several young girls who wanted to hold him and pet him so he didn't have to worry about being on the ground. We worked on sit, down (from a sit and a stand), restrained hold, handling and settle. During class, we used luring for the sit and down. At home, I'll be working on capturing the behaviors as well as using shaping. Even in class, we aren't necessarily doing everything the same way they teach it. For instance, they recommend that you physically hold the dog down for the "settle", something we are not going to do. The instructors seem fine with us doing the exercises in our own way. 

Chaplin showing what a good "sitter" he is

Chaplin settling during the down

Relaxing on my lap during class

At the end of class, we had a bit of a "make up" for the 1st class that we missed. Chaplin fell asleep while the instructor reviewed the exercises. And we found out that as part of the class, you get a free 5 X 7 photograph by a professional photographer! We had the option to have the photos taken now or at the end of the session. We decided to do it now so that we'd have real baby photos of him! He was very good during the photo shoot and we're looking forward to seeing the proofs in a week or so. 

Chaplin sleeps through the lecture! Perfect chance to see his little "mustache"!

Again, Chaplin did a great job during the night. He woke once for a quick potty and then back to sleep!