Let’s talk about preparation.. you want to send your baby to school, it’s not been in the world, it’s met few people. When you tried to have it be social, it was a foul experience, so easier not to push the envelope.

The dog is a hassle; therefore easier to leave it at home. Preparation for the real world isn’t hard, they are dogs.. they appreciate structure and leaders.. beyond that.. not much besides food.

If the dog is socially ackward you must be the captain.. allowing the dog to safety up and embrace self preservation, is doing it no service. Bad behavior needs correction, good behavior praise.. it’s simple.

An example is at meeker my puppies were a hassle to walk bouncing here and there, barking at various things... I took them to the trial, flags whipping, people everywhere, dogs all over. They barked and bounced, I said no.. you can rely on me, but I’m not coddling you. Walk and be quiet, look around and be happy.. one correction they were both perfect.

You just prepare these working dogs for the real world. Things they encounter will be scary and weird. If it were a horse you’d prepare it, or you’d die.

This dog arriving yesterday knew nothing but hiding. When things didn’t go his way, bolt, hide. Fortunately he couldn’t get away, but I couldn’t catch him either.

Today, same thing, bolt, bite, run, climb.

He’s a strange dog, but he’s my best friend after some tough love.. had he been properly prepared we might be working sheep by now.

He’s happy and greeting me now, and I don’t have to fish him out of his dog house.. met me at the gate wagging, after a hard day for him.. he greeted me as if I was his boss, politely and brave. My work for today is done..

They aren’t children, don’t treat them as such. Prepare your dogs for the next step; you’re doing them a favor.

But Did you die?? No you didn’t

Most importantly, teach them how to learn!

To be continued ...