Hey there, Blake here! It’s only Monday, but I’ve already had a couple of exciting wins! Captain (that’s what I call my human) and I have been working hard, and today was all about practicing a new skill called “side.” It’s when I sit beside her right leg, facing forward. Captain uses this cool hand signal, just like the American Sign Language (ASL) sign for “dog.” We started learning it last week, and now, I’m nailing it indoors!

Today, we tested it in the front yard, with neighbors getting their mail and a delivery truck pulling up. I noticed all the action, but I stayed focused, like the good pup I am! One of the neighbors even shouted, “That’s a really good dog you’ve got there!” Captain smiled, but I know she’s the one putting in all the work to train me!

Last week, we practiced at the park near the dog area. A bunch of kids came over to say hi, so Captain gave them some of my kibble, and I got to show off my sit and down skills. One of the kids’ moms emailed Captain later and said the blog inspired her to help her grandpa, who has hearing loss, train his dog to alert him to important sounds. Isn’t that cool? We’re helping others too!

Not everything is fun though. Captain says people on the internet sometimes argue about training. She asked a question about how I can help wake her up when her alarm goes off, and before you know it, people were debating. It’s a little silly, right? But Captain didn’t let it get to her—we’ve got better things to focus on, like playing in my kiddie pool!

We’ve also been checking out new places and eating out—it’s been quite the adventure. I’m getting so big now, I can almost help with the dishes (and by help, I mean desperately try to lick off the cookie dough from bowls left close to the edge). But for now, I think it’s time for some cuddles and maybe a little TV before bed. Training is tough, but it’s fun too!

Tail Wags and Belly Rubs, Blake 🐾