Spread The Bread

Build update: staircase

Ollie started struggling to nap during the day again. He gets enough exercise. He gets a lot of play time. We train every day. He gets plenty of opprtunities to go outside and sniff. He very clearly gets tired, but fights sleep, and then gets really grumpy about being awake.

So I started considering other causes. And I think I figured it out.

As a puppy, Ollie ate three small meals a day. I had asked his vet when I should be changing that, and she said that many of the poodles she sees stay on this three-a-day schedule. So up to this point, that is what we have been doing.

The other day, as I was pulling my hair out over Ollie refusing another nap, I had a thought: what if it was hunger?

So we made the switch to twice-daily feeding. I started giving him a larger breakfast and dinner, and I replaced his lunchtime with training.

We saw results immediately. Ollie is napping solidly, and he is significantly calmer when he is awake. He responds faster to his cues. He's not as mouthy, and he engages in less attention-seeking behaviors.

I feel a little bad for not figuring it out sooner, but I am happy it is addressed now.

Base for library build so far

6.19 The Unnatural

A different perspective.

Always happy to help❤️. Good luck in your training :)

we went for a nice long walk in the park yesterday. for the first half, she was on a long line and harness (to sniff and explore), and the second half, a collar and short leash (loose leash practice). i noticed any time we saw another dog, she kinda barked a little and backed away. i rewarded her for checking in with me and refocusing after, but i’m afraid of her becoming dog reactive. does anyone have any tips to nip this in the bud while she’s still young?

Mmm… fossils :)

Update photos: added details to upper layer

My friend @icynoob helped and has given me a lot of inspiration for this project.

I’m paying to force seven thousand strangers to see a photo of my late husband having fun with his dog. Tumblr Blaze is totally worth it. XD