Rodders and I spent some time in the garden. First of all I poop scooped and then we played chase.
He came and lay on the kitchen floor while I emptied the washing machine and once he was told no he didn't try to bite things as they came out of the machine. Once the washing machine was empty he followed me upstairs while I hung stuff on the radiators and ran off with my slippers. One is still on the landing and the other is in the lounge.
I then put on my walking gear and we headed off down the Nicky Line following yesterdays route. Rodders was really funny once we swapped to the extendable lead. He would either run ahead of me and then sit and wait or he would lag behind me and wait for me to call him and come running so I turned it in to a training exercise.
As he seems to like this walk I thought I should check where it is we end up and apparently it is Keen Fields. I wasn't quite so keen on it today as I spotted drug paraphernalia up by the seating area and basketball court :-(
Anyway we did the walk around and Rodders loved running and sniffing about and he got to play with a boxer and a staff cross before we headed back up the Nicky Line.
He is funny if he gets anything stuck to his legs. He just sits down and waits for me to take it off him.
We got passed by a cyclist and a runner, Rodders was quite good and sat still for me while we let them passed. He doesn't like it when other dog walkers go past us if he isn't allowed to stop and say hello but he will keep walking even if he does keep looking back.
We walked back as far as the rugby field before turning and heading for home. Once inside I was trying to swap out of my wellies and Rodders was trying to bite the boots I was putting on so I shut him in the lounge. To start with he was quiet but he soon started squeaking as he hates being shut away from me if I am home.
Showing posts with label dog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog. Show all posts
Monday, 2 January 2012
Sunday, 1 January 2012
A quiet morning and a long walk
I woke up about 8.30am and there wasn't a peep out of Rodders until I started walking towards the bathroom. By the time I got down the stairs he was squeaking quite loudly.
He wanted a fuss and a snuggle before asking to go in the garden. While he was out there I made a cuppa and got his breakfast ready. As soon as he heard his bowls moving he dashed back in and started barking. I am trying to make him sit and wait so that I can put his bowls down without his nose in the way, we are almost there but he can't resist once they are an inch from the floor so it took about 5 minutes just to give him his breakfast this morning.
Once he had eaten his breakfast he was quite lively and chasing his toys around. He was also up to mischief and we have had a bit of a battle over the door stop and the door mat. OH wants to put the rugs back down after we take down the Christmas Tree but I think this might be a mistake. They are long pile, shaggy things and I think the temptation would be too much.
After a lot of playing inside and out and a fair amount of mischief Rodders eventually wanted a rest and came up on the sofa with me.
He seems to be able to find tissues from a mile away, even if they are hidden in pockets or behind cushions, and I have lost count of how many I have taken off him today.
I had brunch before emptying the washing machine and then getting washed and dressed so we could head out for a walk. I thought we would go towards the Nicky Line and see how muddy it is. Once we got there it looked quite good so we headed under the bridge and towards Queensway, stopping to swap to the extendable lead. Rodders loved running around sniffing as I wandered down the path and would be behind me one minute and flying past me to get in front the next. He stopped a couple of times and sat down so I called him to me and he came running. I wonder if the fact that there is an obvious path to follow makes him happier?
We walked over the bridge at Queensway, down the steps and in to the park. Rodders hadn't done this park before but he seemed to like it, we probably walked two thirds of it. He got to play with one dog for about 5 minutes. The two of them were chasing around his owner and I as we stood chatting, it was lovely to see.
As we were walking back towards the bridge I could hear my name being called. I looked up and saw Bob and Pat from next door standing on the bridge waving. Rodders and I made our way towards the steps and met them coming down with Gus, their Grand Dog. This was the first time Gus and Rodders had met. Gus is better with humans, Rodders is better with dogs so once they worked that out they were happy to ignore each other while we chatted. After a while we parted company so that we could head home and they could let Gus off for a run around and to chase his stick.
Rodders stayed a little closer on the way back so I thought we may have tired him out. No chance! Once we were back inside I made a cuppa and gave him his lunch and then he was running up and down after his ball, playing with his yoghurt pot and frizbee and then wanted out in to the garden. It had started to rain, I hope Bob and Pat aren't too long or they will be soaked,
Rodders was out there a while and has come in soaking. After being towelled off he was happy to lie on his bed pad for a snooze.
He wanted a fuss and a snuggle before asking to go in the garden. While he was out there I made a cuppa and got his breakfast ready. As soon as he heard his bowls moving he dashed back in and started barking. I am trying to make him sit and wait so that I can put his bowls down without his nose in the way, we are almost there but he can't resist once they are an inch from the floor so it took about 5 minutes just to give him his breakfast this morning.
Once he had eaten his breakfast he was quite lively and chasing his toys around. He was also up to mischief and we have had a bit of a battle over the door stop and the door mat. OH wants to put the rugs back down after we take down the Christmas Tree but I think this might be a mistake. They are long pile, shaggy things and I think the temptation would be too much.
After a lot of playing inside and out and a fair amount of mischief Rodders eventually wanted a rest and came up on the sofa with me.
He seems to be able to find tissues from a mile away, even if they are hidden in pockets or behind cushions, and I have lost count of how many I have taken off him today.
I had brunch before emptying the washing machine and then getting washed and dressed so we could head out for a walk. I thought we would go towards the Nicky Line and see how muddy it is. Once we got there it looked quite good so we headed under the bridge and towards Queensway, stopping to swap to the extendable lead. Rodders loved running around sniffing as I wandered down the path and would be behind me one minute and flying past me to get in front the next. He stopped a couple of times and sat down so I called him to me and he came running. I wonder if the fact that there is an obvious path to follow makes him happier?
We walked over the bridge at Queensway, down the steps and in to the park. Rodders hadn't done this park before but he seemed to like it, we probably walked two thirds of it. He got to play with one dog for about 5 minutes. The two of them were chasing around his owner and I as we stood chatting, it was lovely to see.
As we were walking back towards the bridge I could hear my name being called. I looked up and saw Bob and Pat from next door standing on the bridge waving. Rodders and I made our way towards the steps and met them coming down with Gus, their Grand Dog. This was the first time Gus and Rodders had met. Gus is better with humans, Rodders is better with dogs so once they worked that out they were happy to ignore each other while we chatted. After a while we parted company so that we could head home and they could let Gus off for a run around and to chase his stick.
Rodders stayed a little closer on the way back so I thought we may have tired him out. No chance! Once we were back inside I made a cuppa and gave him his lunch and then he was running up and down after his ball, playing with his yoghurt pot and frizbee and then wanted out in to the garden. It had started to rain, I hope Bob and Pat aren't too long or they will be soaked,
Rodders was out there a while and has come in soaking. After being towelled off he was happy to lie on his bed pad for a snooze.
Quite a busy day
After I showered and dressed OH called in to see us for an hour. As he arrived I was putting on some washing and Rodders was playing in the conservatory. He didn't hear the back door until almost the last moment but was thrilled to see who it was and wanted straight up for a snuggle. We all ended up having a group hug as I think it was the only way I was going to get to say hello too!
OH and I had a cuppa and a bit of breakfast and then he had a play with Rodders while I brought the bin back in. OH and I then popped upstairs to fit my new cool pad to my bed in the hope that it helps me to sleep better. Finally we all had a snuggle on the sofa before it was time for OH to go. As OH and I had a hug goodbye Rodders was making some strange noises, I think he is getting a bit jealous.
As normal Rodders trotted out to the gate with OH but when I called him back he got halfway and stopped for a piddle. OH managed to get out the gate safely which is the main thing. Rodders stayed out there for a little while sniffing about and squeaking a bit. I don't think he had heard OH's car go as he parked somewhere different today.
I emptied & reloaded the washing machine and Rodders chased his toys about.
Once my hair was dry I put on my dog walking gear and got one of my new hat and glove sets ready so that we could head to Gadebridge Park. Rodders was very excited to be going out and was jumping up. I managed to get him to sit and wait at the door and walked him to the car.
Once parked I got him out the car and put his lead back on. As we were walking to the edge of the park two ladies with three dogs were coming off. Their dogs started barking and so Rodders joined in, they seemed to be giving us a wide berth so I didn't let Rodders say hello to them.
As we got to the park I made him sit and swapped to the extendable lead so that he could have more freedom. He was very happy running about and he got to meet many dogs that were off the lead. Rodders wanted to run off and play with some of them and wasn't happy to be on his lead. Luckily some of them were happy to play with him and he got to run about with a Golden Retriever and a Chocolate Lab amongst others.
Rodders was very good at coming when called and he was happy to just sit and watch what was going on about him several times. We walked our way around the whole park and the only time he was a little nervous was when some children came past us on bikes and scooters. He wasn't bothered by a young lad in a wheelchair, even when he asked if he was Toto from the wizard of Oz. Rodders had a good look at the River Gade and looked as though he might try to go in there at one point but he saw another dog which distracted him. As we got back to where we started he sat while I swapped leads again so that we could walk to the car.
As we were about to get in the car he spotted a Staffie pup and wanted to play. It looked like a smaller version of Molly from Puppy Party and was called Fletcher. They started off sniffing each other but it was obvious that Fletcher wanted to play. When Fletcher got a bit rough Rodders put him in his place by barking at him, when Fletcher tried again Rodders let him play for a little while and then growled at him. The couple with him were not very happy about it but I explained that they were just playing and working out where the boundaries are and both dogs had their tales up. After a little while we parted company and I put Rodders back in his car crate.
Once we were back home I gave Rodders his lunch and after a bit of a play and a trip to the garden he was happy to have a snooze.
He woke up with the devil in him and, as well as playing with his toys, he was up to all sorts of mischief. The door stop kept being dragged across the floor and then he started to take the washing off the radiator. He was found chewing the door mat at the back door when I thought he was playing quietly with his bone.
He was in and out of the garden and it was nice to hear him playing with the stones on the patio again. I don't think he has done this properly for almost two weeks.
He is barking a lot today and it is sometimes difficult to work out why. I really hope my neighbours can't hear him or don't mind too much.
OH and I had a cuppa and a bit of breakfast and then he had a play with Rodders while I brought the bin back in. OH and I then popped upstairs to fit my new cool pad to my bed in the hope that it helps me to sleep better. Finally we all had a snuggle on the sofa before it was time for OH to go. As OH and I had a hug goodbye Rodders was making some strange noises, I think he is getting a bit jealous.
As normal Rodders trotted out to the gate with OH but when I called him back he got halfway and stopped for a piddle. OH managed to get out the gate safely which is the main thing. Rodders stayed out there for a little while sniffing about and squeaking a bit. I don't think he had heard OH's car go as he parked somewhere different today.
I emptied & reloaded the washing machine and Rodders chased his toys about.
Once my hair was dry I put on my dog walking gear and got one of my new hat and glove sets ready so that we could head to Gadebridge Park. Rodders was very excited to be going out and was jumping up. I managed to get him to sit and wait at the door and walked him to the car.
Once parked I got him out the car and put his lead back on. As we were walking to the edge of the park two ladies with three dogs were coming off. Their dogs started barking and so Rodders joined in, they seemed to be giving us a wide berth so I didn't let Rodders say hello to them.
As we got to the park I made him sit and swapped to the extendable lead so that he could have more freedom. He was very happy running about and he got to meet many dogs that were off the lead. Rodders wanted to run off and play with some of them and wasn't happy to be on his lead. Luckily some of them were happy to play with him and he got to run about with a Golden Retriever and a Chocolate Lab amongst others.
Rodders was very good at coming when called and he was happy to just sit and watch what was going on about him several times. We walked our way around the whole park and the only time he was a little nervous was when some children came past us on bikes and scooters. He wasn't bothered by a young lad in a wheelchair, even when he asked if he was Toto from the wizard of Oz. Rodders had a good look at the River Gade and looked as though he might try to go in there at one point but he saw another dog which distracted him. As we got back to where we started he sat while I swapped leads again so that we could walk to the car.
As we were about to get in the car he spotted a Staffie pup and wanted to play. It looked like a smaller version of Molly from Puppy Party and was called Fletcher. They started off sniffing each other but it was obvious that Fletcher wanted to play. When Fletcher got a bit rough Rodders put him in his place by barking at him, when Fletcher tried again Rodders let him play for a little while and then growled at him. The couple with him were not very happy about it but I explained that they were just playing and working out where the boundaries are and both dogs had their tales up. After a little while we parted company and I put Rodders back in his car crate.
Once we were back home I gave Rodders his lunch and after a bit of a play and a trip to the garden he was happy to have a snooze.
He woke up with the devil in him and, as well as playing with his toys, he was up to all sorts of mischief. The door stop kept being dragged across the floor and then he started to take the washing off the radiator. He was found chewing the door mat at the back door when I thought he was playing quietly with his bone.
He was in and out of the garden and it was nice to hear him playing with the stones on the patio again. I don't think he has done this properly for almost two weeks.
He is barking a lot today and it is sometimes difficult to work out why. I really hope my neighbours can't hear him or don't mind too much.
Sunday, 18 December 2011
We now have a little horror!
Rodders was having a quiet snooze on the sofa with me and then we got two interruptions. The first one was a christmas card being delivered and Sophie knocked incase Roders ate post, the second was Kevin and Polo coming to visit us.
Polo and Rodders have met before and they seemed to get on OK again today. Except someone piddled on the floor, not sure who :-( It was quite a big puddle and I am not convinced it was Rodders. I made Kev and I a cuppa and we sat nattering while Rodders chased Polo about and asking him to play. When Polo got fed up with being batted with a paw and teased by him I put his Rodders lead on and tried to make him sit. He threw a complete tantrum and was trying to bite me so he got severely checked. I then managed to get him to lie down and stood on the lead so he couldn't get up. He lay at my feet making play with me noises but at least he stayed down.
Once they left Rodders had the devil in him. He was running around getting in to mischief as I was trying to tidy up all the wrapping paper stuff and then I found him sitting in his toy box. At least that was keeping him quiet! He then decided to throw all his toys out of the toy box and the conservatory floor was covered, this is one spoilt puppy! I hope he doesn't get too many more for Christmas or we will be looking for a new, bigger, toy box.
As I cooked dinner he was under my feet in the kitchen waiting to see if anything dropped. He then asked for his dinner, the first time in ages, so he must be feeling better. He has eaten most of it too.
There are now fireworks going off and so he is barking at them. I think I have just managed to distract him as he has gone back to his toys.
Polo and Rodders have met before and they seemed to get on OK again today. Except someone piddled on the floor, not sure who :-( It was quite a big puddle and I am not convinced it was Rodders. I made Kev and I a cuppa and we sat nattering while Rodders chased Polo about and asking him to play. When Polo got fed up with being batted with a paw and teased by him I put his Rodders lead on and tried to make him sit. He threw a complete tantrum and was trying to bite me so he got severely checked. I then managed to get him to lie down and stood on the lead so he couldn't get up. He lay at my feet making play with me noises but at least he stayed down.
Once they left Rodders had the devil in him. He was running around getting in to mischief as I was trying to tidy up all the wrapping paper stuff and then I found him sitting in his toy box. At least that was keeping him quiet! He then decided to throw all his toys out of the toy box and the conservatory floor was covered, this is one spoilt puppy! I hope he doesn't get too many more for Christmas or we will be looking for a new, bigger, toy box.
As I cooked dinner he was under my feet in the kitchen waiting to see if anything dropped. He then asked for his dinner, the first time in ages, so he must be feeling better. He has eaten most of it too.
There are now fireworks going off and so he is barking at them. I think I have just managed to distract him as he has gone back to his toys.
Friday, 16 December 2011
A quiet day and a visit to the vet
Rodders was very quiet today and hardly left his bed pad or my side other than to go out in to the garden for a piddle. By lunchtime he had eaten some chicken and rice and had drunk a little but he really wasn't playing like normal. He didn't even want to come upstairs with me.
I needed to go out waxing and shopping so I let him in the garden for a piddle and then popped him in his crate with a treat. I was out for almost three hours and he was happy to see me back.
We went out in to the garden so he could have a piddle and then it was time to go back to the vets for his check up. He wasn't happy to go out on his lead to the car but once we got to the vets he was very happy to trot in there. While we were in the waiting room we saw a cat and then a chocolate labrador. Rodders had been sitting nicely until the lab came in and then he wanted to play with it. He was making so much noise with his come play with me bark that I eventually asked the owners if he could say hello. They agreed and the dogs had a good sniff of each other. Rodders was then happy to come back and sit beside me.
Rachel called us in and we talked through how the last day has been. I said that he was still quite quiet and sleepy but had drunk all the rehydration salts and more than 2 bowls of chicken and rice. She checked him over and he is no longer dehydrated which is good and heart and temperature are still good.
To be on the safe side she wants him to have antibiotics twice daily for five days and to stay on chicken and rice until she sees him again on Wednesday, just because she wants to be a bit cautious and make sure he is better by christmas. Once she gives him the OK we can gradually swap him back to kibble.
We went back to the waiting room to wait for his tablets and another bill and there were two more cats in there, one was making quite a lot of noise so I managed to get Rodders to sit behind them. He only made a bit of a squeak, much better than the barking earlier.
We got called forward to pay the bill and pick up the tablets and we were on our way out the door. Rodders was quite happy to walk back to the car and go in his crate.
I needed to go out waxing and shopping so I let him in the garden for a piddle and then popped him in his crate with a treat. I was out for almost three hours and he was happy to see me back.
We went out in to the garden so he could have a piddle and then it was time to go back to the vets for his check up. He wasn't happy to go out on his lead to the car but once we got to the vets he was very happy to trot in there. While we were in the waiting room we saw a cat and then a chocolate labrador. Rodders had been sitting nicely until the lab came in and then he wanted to play with it. He was making so much noise with his come play with me bark that I eventually asked the owners if he could say hello. They agreed and the dogs had a good sniff of each other. Rodders was then happy to come back and sit beside me.
Rachel called us in and we talked through how the last day has been. I said that he was still quite quiet and sleepy but had drunk all the rehydration salts and more than 2 bowls of chicken and rice. She checked him over and he is no longer dehydrated which is good and heart and temperature are still good.
To be on the safe side she wants him to have antibiotics twice daily for five days and to stay on chicken and rice until she sees him again on Wednesday, just because she wants to be a bit cautious and make sure he is better by christmas. Once she gives him the OK we can gradually swap him back to kibble.
We went back to the waiting room to wait for his tablets and another bill and there were two more cats in there, one was making quite a lot of noise so I managed to get Rodders to sit behind them. He only made a bit of a squeak, much better than the barking earlier.
We got called forward to pay the bill and pick up the tablets and we were on our way out the door. Rodders was quite happy to walk back to the car and go in his crate.
Saturday, 10 December 2011
A tiring day for Rodders (& me!)
When I went upstairs to dry my hair Rodders came too and sat right beside me on the bed. He stayed there while I got dressed but gave a squeak or two when I left him on his own while I got something from another room.
When we came downstairs he asked for something to eat so I gave him a bowl of kibble. He ate most of it and then asked to go in to the garden. I took the opportunity to load the car and scrape the frost off it. Luckily he was so busy pottering about the garden he didn't miss me.
Rodders and I left home just after 9.30am to go to my sister's house in Houghton. He wasn't happy in the car to start with, settled down and then started whinging again about half way. I have no idea why he has started to do this.
Once we got to Houghton he was happy to get out of the car and trotted down the lane to Kirsty's quite happily. Sue was already there with the Christmas Cards she needed us all to sign. These are for friends of Mum's that we keep in contact with.
Finnan didn't seem too happy to see Rodders but she tolerated him in her house but she did grizzle at him a few times and snapped once.
Rodders asked to go out in to the garden so I popped on his extendable lead. Everyone followed us out and we had a look at all the work that has been done to clear the garden. Just cutting back the shrubbery on one border has reclaimed about 8-10 foot of garden! Apparently they cooked baked potatoes in the fire when they were burning a pile of rubbish earlier in the week. There is still a lot to do though, but a good start has been made.
Rodders was happy following Finnan around and she seems to tolerate him better outside.
The charity Kirsty works for were doing a duck race in St Ives today and she was on duty for a while. Sue couldn't stay for it but we decided to take the dogs. She dropped us off in St Ives so that we could walk back. This was the first time that Rodders has been in a car without his crate and he didn't seem very happy about it and so he stayed very still between me and the side of the car.
As we walked towards Kirsty's office Rodders attracted a fair amount of attention and we were stopped by another mini schnauzer owner. His is a year old and as shy of people as Rodders is although it gets walked through the town daily. Once we got to her office I stayed outside with both dogs sitting at my feet while she went to get her corporate jacket. A few people stopped to talk to us including someone who's parents have a mini schnauzer. I did have to keep reminding Rodders to sit but he was fairly good.
The charity had sold 53 ducks to locals businesses, the local boat yard provided a decorated boat to take them downstream to the launch site and the Mayor was expected to start the race. We all met up at the town bridge to wait for the mayor and the boat to arrive and there were lots of people around feeding the real ducks and swans. Rodders was fascinated by the noise the birds were making and sat on the quay wall. I was worried that he would jump in so I moved him to the top of the stone steps. He was happy to sit here and watch and it was quite warm standing in the sun.
The boat arrived, covered in tinsel, balls and a parrot! The contestants got loaded in and they made their way downstream. The mayor arrived and we all made our way on to the bridge and watched the start. Unfortunately the wind direction had changed and they all made their way to the bank! The guys on the boat rounded them up and it was decided to restart a little closer to the bridge, out of the way of the meadow and the inlet to the hotel so they were more sheltered. While they did this Kirsty left Finnan with me and nipped in to the bridge chapel to light a candle for Granny who used to live just the other side of the bridge.
At the second attempt the ducks were off to a flying start. Twenty minutes later we were back on the quay to see the winning duck home, it had led almost from the start and has won it's company a day paint balling. Not bad for £20 sponsorship!
While we were standing about Rodders got to meet several more dogs and people, he also got to drink out of a puddle some children made by using the hand pump.
Kirtsy and I left everyone else to round up the last of the ducks and headed through the town towards the Thicket. This would be a first for Rodders but something I used to do on every school day for many years as this path goes between the village we grew up in and St Ives where our secondary school was. It passes through a nature reserve and there are just walkers and bikes to look out for most of the way.
Once we were out of the town I swapped Rodders on to his extendable lead to give him some more freedom. He didn't seem to be bothered that Finnan was off lead and spent most of the time just trotting along sniffing about and then running to catch us up. If he was being a little slow I gave him a shout and he came each time. I'm still not brave enough to let him off though!
The closer we got to the Houghton end the more Rodders realised that there were fields to explore and he was getting a bit more defiant. He did squeak a couple of times as though to say "can't I go and chase this nice smell, I don't want to come with you yet". He also had another drink from a nice muddy puddle or two!
He doesn't like having any shrubbery caught in his legs and just sits down and waits for me to go back to him to remove it.
He was very good when we needed to stop and wait for walkers and cyclists to come past us. He also got to meet another couple of dogs.
We were now in the actual road, although it isn't very busy at this end we still had to get Finnan and Rodders to sit and wait while a couple of vehicles came past us. We walked right up to the clock tower before we swapped back to the normal lead.
It is only a short walk from here back to Kirsty's cottage. As soon as we got in Rodders started barking so I gave him a couple of treats to keep him quiet. Both dogs then got a crisp packet after Kirsty and I had a quick snack and a cuppa.
After another run around the garden it was time for us to head off home. Rodders was so tired he wasn't bothered about going back in the car and didn't make a sound all the way home.
When we came downstairs he asked for something to eat so I gave him a bowl of kibble. He ate most of it and then asked to go in to the garden. I took the opportunity to load the car and scrape the frost off it. Luckily he was so busy pottering about the garden he didn't miss me.
Rodders and I left home just after 9.30am to go to my sister's house in Houghton. He wasn't happy in the car to start with, settled down and then started whinging again about half way. I have no idea why he has started to do this.
Once we got to Houghton he was happy to get out of the car and trotted down the lane to Kirsty's quite happily. Sue was already there with the Christmas Cards she needed us all to sign. These are for friends of Mum's that we keep in contact with.
Finnan didn't seem too happy to see Rodders but she tolerated him in her house but she did grizzle at him a few times and snapped once.
Rodders asked to go out in to the garden so I popped on his extendable lead. Everyone followed us out and we had a look at all the work that has been done to clear the garden. Just cutting back the shrubbery on one border has reclaimed about 8-10 foot of garden! Apparently they cooked baked potatoes in the fire when they were burning a pile of rubbish earlier in the week. There is still a lot to do though, but a good start has been made.
Rodders was happy following Finnan around and she seems to tolerate him better outside.
The charity Kirsty works for were doing a duck race in St Ives today and she was on duty for a while. Sue couldn't stay for it but we decided to take the dogs. She dropped us off in St Ives so that we could walk back. This was the first time that Rodders has been in a car without his crate and he didn't seem very happy about it and so he stayed very still between me and the side of the car.
As we walked towards Kirsty's office Rodders attracted a fair amount of attention and we were stopped by another mini schnauzer owner. His is a year old and as shy of people as Rodders is although it gets walked through the town daily. Once we got to her office I stayed outside with both dogs sitting at my feet while she went to get her corporate jacket. A few people stopped to talk to us including someone who's parents have a mini schnauzer. I did have to keep reminding Rodders to sit but he was fairly good.
The charity had sold 53 ducks to locals businesses, the local boat yard provided a decorated boat to take them downstream to the launch site and the Mayor was expected to start the race. We all met up at the town bridge to wait for the mayor and the boat to arrive and there were lots of people around feeding the real ducks and swans. Rodders was fascinated by the noise the birds were making and sat on the quay wall. I was worried that he would jump in so I moved him to the top of the stone steps. He was happy to sit here and watch and it was quite warm standing in the sun.
The boat arrived, covered in tinsel, balls and a parrot! The contestants got loaded in and they made their way downstream. The mayor arrived and we all made our way on to the bridge and watched the start. Unfortunately the wind direction had changed and they all made their way to the bank! The guys on the boat rounded them up and it was decided to restart a little closer to the bridge, out of the way of the meadow and the inlet to the hotel so they were more sheltered. While they did this Kirsty left Finnan with me and nipped in to the bridge chapel to light a candle for Granny who used to live just the other side of the bridge.
At the second attempt the ducks were off to a flying start. Twenty minutes later we were back on the quay to see the winning duck home, it had led almost from the start and has won it's company a day paint balling. Not bad for £20 sponsorship!
While we were standing about Rodders got to meet several more dogs and people, he also got to drink out of a puddle some children made by using the hand pump.
Kirtsy and I left everyone else to round up the last of the ducks and headed through the town towards the Thicket. This would be a first for Rodders but something I used to do on every school day for many years as this path goes between the village we grew up in and St Ives where our secondary school was. It passes through a nature reserve and there are just walkers and bikes to look out for most of the way.
Once we were out of the town I swapped Rodders on to his extendable lead to give him some more freedom. He didn't seem to be bothered that Finnan was off lead and spent most of the time just trotting along sniffing about and then running to catch us up. If he was being a little slow I gave him a shout and he came each time. I'm still not brave enough to let him off though!
The closer we got to the Houghton end the more Rodders realised that there were fields to explore and he was getting a bit more defiant. He did squeak a couple of times as though to say "can't I go and chase this nice smell, I don't want to come with you yet". He also had another drink from a nice muddy puddle or two!
He doesn't like having any shrubbery caught in his legs and just sits down and waits for me to go back to him to remove it.
He was very good when we needed to stop and wait for walkers and cyclists to come past us. He also got to meet another couple of dogs.
We were now in the actual road, although it isn't very busy at this end we still had to get Finnan and Rodders to sit and wait while a couple of vehicles came past us. We walked right up to the clock tower before we swapped back to the normal lead.
It is only a short walk from here back to Kirsty's cottage. As soon as we got in Rodders started barking so I gave him a couple of treats to keep him quiet. Both dogs then got a crisp packet after Kirsty and I had a quick snack and a cuppa.
After another run around the garden it was time for us to head off home. Rodders was so tired he wasn't bothered about going back in the car and didn't make a sound all the way home.
Friday, 9 December 2011
Puppy Class No 6
Rodders and I left for puppy class and he whimpered a bit in the car to start with, this is becoming a bit of a habit :-(
When we got there Juno was waiting and we could see Tinker still in the car (her owner has another dog that does the class before). Molly joined us in the car park and just as the class began Molly's brother joined us. We also got to see Tarka to find out how she got on at the next level class - it was much harder apparently.
Sam joined us and she greeted all the puppy's, Rodders even seemed pleased to see her! We all swapped puppies and after a quick look to see where I was Rodders was happy to accept treats and fuss from other people. He was still pleased to come back to me though.
We went straight out to the field as it was very sunny and bright (flipping cold though!) with Rodders and I in the front. He was walking nicely to heel until we got to the field and then wanted to run and sniff. This could be because he is a bundle of energy or it could be because I usually allow him freedom on fields so I am going to try a couple of things: 1. We will do a walk before Puppy School next week to make sure he has got rid of the excess energy and 2. At least one walk a week on the field will be on his normal lead.
We were all walking around some posts to heel and he was still being a monkey but we had to stop and clear up as he pooped. By the time we caught up we were doing heel & down rather than heel and sit. He did OK at this and was going in to the down position better than he had been.
We then played with tuggy's and I was having to say no and check him two or three times before he would give up his toy so Sam came and showed me how she would do it. Rodders nearly went in to the next field! It would appear I need to be tougher. But after Sam had checked him he wasn't too interested in the toy and wanted to eat mud and rabbit poo. Another thing I need to practice when we are on the rugby field.
We then tried recall by making the puppy's sit, wait and then come. Rodders wouldn't wait until Sam stood on his lead but when asked to come he couldn't wait to get to me for a treat. We did this twice and he was as bad both times.
We then did a bit more heel work before going on to down and stay. He did a little better at this but I was only ever a lead length away and didn't let go.
We then heeled over to the agility course but we were running out of time so we only did the A Frame and the tunnel. Neither were a problem but it would be better if he would wait at the start of the tunnel without Sam having to hold him.
As we were walking back at the hall I was chatting with Sam and telling her about our week. She thinks that all the extra socialisation is working well and she can see how much more confident he is. She also thinks that him getting bolder may mean that he is testing his limits and I need to be a little firmer with him.
We got back in to the hall and he did a good sit and wait at the door. Once inside he went in to down as we wrapped up but when everyone else made their way back to the door he was happy to stay where he was!
I did get him to come out and got him in to the car and for the first time in days he wanted his treat. On the way back I ran in to the little Tesco for bread and milk and left him in the car. He was silent until I got back in and then gave a few squeaks to make sure I knew he was there!
Back home he has had a quick play, has eaten about half a bowl of kibble, has been in to the garden twice and is now having a snooze.
When we got there Juno was waiting and we could see Tinker still in the car (her owner has another dog that does the class before). Molly joined us in the car park and just as the class began Molly's brother joined us. We also got to see Tarka to find out how she got on at the next level class - it was much harder apparently.
Sam joined us and she greeted all the puppy's, Rodders even seemed pleased to see her! We all swapped puppies and after a quick look to see where I was Rodders was happy to accept treats and fuss from other people. He was still pleased to come back to me though.
We went straight out to the field as it was very sunny and bright (flipping cold though!) with Rodders and I in the front. He was walking nicely to heel until we got to the field and then wanted to run and sniff. This could be because he is a bundle of energy or it could be because I usually allow him freedom on fields so I am going to try a couple of things: 1. We will do a walk before Puppy School next week to make sure he has got rid of the excess energy and 2. At least one walk a week on the field will be on his normal lead.
We were all walking around some posts to heel and he was still being a monkey but we had to stop and clear up as he pooped. By the time we caught up we were doing heel & down rather than heel and sit. He did OK at this and was going in to the down position better than he had been.
We then played with tuggy's and I was having to say no and check him two or three times before he would give up his toy so Sam came and showed me how she would do it. Rodders nearly went in to the next field! It would appear I need to be tougher. But after Sam had checked him he wasn't too interested in the toy and wanted to eat mud and rabbit poo. Another thing I need to practice when we are on the rugby field.
We then tried recall by making the puppy's sit, wait and then come. Rodders wouldn't wait until Sam stood on his lead but when asked to come he couldn't wait to get to me for a treat. We did this twice and he was as bad both times.
We then did a bit more heel work before going on to down and stay. He did a little better at this but I was only ever a lead length away and didn't let go.
We then heeled over to the agility course but we were running out of time so we only did the A Frame and the tunnel. Neither were a problem but it would be better if he would wait at the start of the tunnel without Sam having to hold him.
As we were walking back at the hall I was chatting with Sam and telling her about our week. She thinks that all the extra socialisation is working well and she can see how much more confident he is. She also thinks that him getting bolder may mean that he is testing his limits and I need to be a little firmer with him.
We got back in to the hall and he did a good sit and wait at the door. Once inside he went in to down as we wrapped up but when everyone else made their way back to the door he was happy to stay where he was!
I did get him to come out and got him in to the car and for the first time in days he wanted his treat. On the way back I ran in to the little Tesco for bread and milk and left him in the car. He was silent until I got back in and then gave a few squeaks to make sure I knew he was there!
Back home he has had a quick play, has eaten about half a bowl of kibble, has been in to the garden twice and is now having a snooze.
Thursday, 8 December 2011
Lets not have breakfast
Rodders showed no interest in food at all until very late today so I just got on with things and ignored it.
I eventually went to get washed and dressed about 11am and he couldn't really be bothered to come upstairs but did eventually join me in the bedroom. He had a play on the bed while I got dressed.
Once we came back downstairs he wanted out in the garden for a piddle and then had a little play. It is already a bit windy and it is going to get worse.
When he came back in I put on my coat and his lead and he started to do summersaults and jumping up and biting my coat. We headed out the back door and in to the car. He settled down quickly but did start to bark about 15 minutes in to our journey which is really unusual. Luckily we were nearly at Pet Supermarket so I just told him to wait. As soon as I opened the crate he was straight out and standing on the boot ledge while I out the lead on and started to bark at people in the car park. He didn't seem to need a piddle so we made our way inside.
Rodders was making sure that everyone knew he was there and continued to bark at people he saw and when he could hear toys being squeaked. I managed to find another of the bed pads as he seems to like the one we have already bought and got him a water bowl for travelling with. I also got toothpaste and a toothbrush and a tooth cleaning kong which will probably be saved for Christmas. He also has a new lead ready for puppy class tomorrow.
A few people stopped to talk to him and he was quite good with one lady and actually approached her, he wasn't too keen on the others though.
We bumped in to a huge dog, a spanish mastiff, and Rodders wanted to say hello. He was about ten times Rodders size but he wasn't bothered by that at all. His owner got him to lie down and Rodders went nose to nose with him! It was really funny but I think his owner was a bit worried as he is a bit of a handful to control due to his size so we moved on.
At the till Rodders was given treats which he wolfed down. He didn't complain about getting back in the car but when we got home I only just managed to clip his lead on before he jumped down! I am going to have to open the crate wide enough to get the lead on but not enough for him to get out.
I eventually went to get washed and dressed about 11am and he couldn't really be bothered to come upstairs but did eventually join me in the bedroom. He had a play on the bed while I got dressed.
Once we came back downstairs he wanted out in the garden for a piddle and then had a little play. It is already a bit windy and it is going to get worse.
When he came back in I put on my coat and his lead and he started to do summersaults and jumping up and biting my coat. We headed out the back door and in to the car. He settled down quickly but did start to bark about 15 minutes in to our journey which is really unusual. Luckily we were nearly at Pet Supermarket so I just told him to wait. As soon as I opened the crate he was straight out and standing on the boot ledge while I out the lead on and started to bark at people in the car park. He didn't seem to need a piddle so we made our way inside.
Rodders was making sure that everyone knew he was there and continued to bark at people he saw and when he could hear toys being squeaked. I managed to find another of the bed pads as he seems to like the one we have already bought and got him a water bowl for travelling with. I also got toothpaste and a toothbrush and a tooth cleaning kong which will probably be saved for Christmas. He also has a new lead ready for puppy class tomorrow.
A few people stopped to talk to him and he was quite good with one lady and actually approached her, he wasn't too keen on the others though.
We bumped in to a huge dog, a spanish mastiff, and Rodders wanted to say hello. He was about ten times Rodders size but he wasn't bothered by that at all. His owner got him to lie down and Rodders went nose to nose with him! It was really funny but I think his owner was a bit worried as he is a bit of a handful to control due to his size so we moved on.
At the till Rodders was given treats which he wolfed down. He didn't complain about getting back in the car but when we got home I only just managed to clip his lead on before he jumped down! I am going to have to open the crate wide enough to get the lead on but not enough for him to get out.
Monday, 5 December 2011
Our first cold walk
After I had drunk a cuppa and Rodders had been out for a play in the garden it was time to go for a walk.
As soon as he saw me put on my coat he was dancing about and jumping up which always makes it a bit difficult to get my wellies on and he did get told off for biting them but wellies with holes in are not good!
We eventually got out the door and headed for the Nicky Line, with Rodders barking to let everyone know he was about. He did walk to heel most of the time but can be easily distracted if there are people about. We walked towards the rugby field and, as the Nicky Line was a bit muddy, went on to the field as soon as we could. Rodders sat while I switched leads and was then off darting about sniffing and looking for treasure.
When we were walking the second side of the field a staffie came from nowhere to have a good sniff, Rodders didn't seem bothered by it but I was a little concerned at a loose dog with no visible owner. Then there was a shout from the Nicky Line and the staffie took off at a great rate of knots and I breathed a sigh of relief!
On the third side we met a man with a 10 month old Westie, he and Rodders had a good time playing for a little while.
When we got to the bottom of the third side he was quite happy to sit for a little while and watch and listen to a lady in the bus stop with two little ones in a pushchair. This is the most interest that he has shown in children!
As we got to the end of the fourth side he sat while I swapped leads back but he did need checking a few times to remind him that he was on a short lead.
By the time we got home the edges of my ears were freezing! Good job Christmas is around the corner as I think Santa may be sorting that out for me!
As soon as he saw me put on my coat he was dancing about and jumping up which always makes it a bit difficult to get my wellies on and he did get told off for biting them but wellies with holes in are not good!
We eventually got out the door and headed for the Nicky Line, with Rodders barking to let everyone know he was about. He did walk to heel most of the time but can be easily distracted if there are people about. We walked towards the rugby field and, as the Nicky Line was a bit muddy, went on to the field as soon as we could. Rodders sat while I switched leads and was then off darting about sniffing and looking for treasure.
When we were walking the second side of the field a staffie came from nowhere to have a good sniff, Rodders didn't seem bothered by it but I was a little concerned at a loose dog with no visible owner. Then there was a shout from the Nicky Line and the staffie took off at a great rate of knots and I breathed a sigh of relief!
On the third side we met a man with a 10 month old Westie, he and Rodders had a good time playing for a little while.
When we got to the bottom of the third side he was quite happy to sit for a little while and watch and listen to a lady in the bus stop with two little ones in a pushchair. This is the most interest that he has shown in children!
As we got to the end of the fourth side he sat while I swapped leads back but he did need checking a few times to remind him that he was on a short lead.
By the time we got home the edges of my ears were freezing! Good job Christmas is around the corner as I think Santa may be sorting that out for me!
Sunday, 4 December 2011
Dressed, breakfast, walk
When I went up to get washed and dressed I took the Kong with the last of the breakfast kibble in it but Rodders wasn't very interested and didn't eat much of it. He was still very good and did let me get washed and dressed in relative peace.
Once back downstairs I made a cuppa and some toast while Rodders had a play in the garden. Once he was ready to come back in we went for a walk up to the Nicky Line and the rugby field. On route OH called and I had a quick chat with him until having to hang up as we were approaching a Red Setter that Rodders like to try and play with. Unfortunately Sazzy doesn't feel the same and she always tried to run away!
While we were on the Nicky Line a chap was having problems getting his Golden Retriever back and was trying everything from whistling, calling, shaking the lead and hiding. Rodders would have gone to him if he hadn't been on the lead but his own dog was paying no attention at all. Wonder if that will be me in time to come!
As soon as we were back Rodders was happy to settle down on his bed pad for another snooze.
Once back downstairs I made a cuppa and some toast while Rodders had a play in the garden. Once he was ready to come back in we went for a walk up to the Nicky Line and the rugby field. On route OH called and I had a quick chat with him until having to hang up as we were approaching a Red Setter that Rodders like to try and play with. Unfortunately Sazzy doesn't feel the same and she always tried to run away!
While we were on the Nicky Line a chap was having problems getting his Golden Retriever back and was trying everything from whistling, calling, shaking the lead and hiding. Rodders would have gone to him if he hadn't been on the lead but his own dog was paying no attention at all. Wonder if that will be me in time to come!
As soon as we were back Rodders was happy to settle down on his bed pad for another snooze.
Wednesday, 30 November 2011
Gadebridge Park Walk
I managed to get Rodders out of the house in record time, even if he did run off with my shoe as I was putting on my wellies!
We drove down to the only free carpark and then set off from there. Rodders is very nosy and wanted to have a good look at the Skate and BMX Park and is interested in what all passers by are doing.
He generally walks very well and comes back when called, unless there is something more interesting to be doing. But I am still not let him off the lead though!
He did allow a young girl, maybe 4, to give him a fuss, which was really good but he got a bit spooked by a bouncy Beagle.
We managed to walk all the way round two thirds of the park but he had started to slow down towards the end. He did also have his first encounter with water as we were walking alongside the River Gade, at one point I thought he might try to go in and test it out but he changed his mind.
Once home he was happy to settle down for a nap, I think I need one too but there is washing to bring in and I am in need of a cuppa!
We drove down to the only free carpark and then set off from there. Rodders is very nosy and wanted to have a good look at the Skate and BMX Park and is interested in what all passers by are doing.
He generally walks very well and comes back when called, unless there is something more interesting to be doing. But I am still not let him off the lead though!
He did allow a young girl, maybe 4, to give him a fuss, which was really good but he got a bit spooked by a bouncy Beagle.
We managed to walk all the way round two thirds of the park but he had started to slow down towards the end. He did also have his first encounter with water as we were walking alongside the River Gade, at one point I thought he might try to go in and test it out but he changed his mind.
Once home he was happy to settle down for a nap, I think I need one too but there is washing to bring in and I am in need of a cuppa!
Monday, 28 November 2011
Need to get him moving
Rodders has been very lazy today, not much playing and a lot of sleeping, so I put my wellies and coat on and we headed out for a walk.
As we got to the end of Pentland Sophie was just being dropped home from school and he started to bark at her. I made him sit and she came over to say hello and give Rodders a quick fuss, he didn't back away for once.
We made our way towards the Nicky Line and there were lots of people and traffic about as it was school chucking out time. He hasn't been very good around children so far but seemed better today and just carried on walking to heel, needing the odd check when he tried to pull.
As we got to the Nicky Line we met a lady with an Airedale and a Cavalier, the Airedale ignored us but the Cavvy said hello. We let them walk in front of us but the Cavvy kept coming back so we overtook and headed to the rugby field. To get out of their way we went on the rugby field at the first opportunity and I made Rodders sit so I could swap leads.
He loves the freedom of the extendable lead and will lag behind and then run past me. He will usually wait when told for me to catch him up if he is in front. This doesn't work too well if there are other dogs about though so we need to practice more but it does allow us the freedom to try without him being able to run off.
We did the whole field and Rodders was happy sniffing about and finding treasure to be dropped and left if he found something more exciting. Once he had something in his mouth he was prancing about and leaping off all fours like a spring lamb, very pleased with himself.
As we came off the field I made him sit so we could swap leads. He does seem to realise the difference and very quickly walks to heel again.
We walked back past Kev and Jane's and home with Rodders sitting and waiting at kerbs and doors.
As we got to the end of Pentland Sophie was just being dropped home from school and he started to bark at her. I made him sit and she came over to say hello and give Rodders a quick fuss, he didn't back away for once.
We made our way towards the Nicky Line and there were lots of people and traffic about as it was school chucking out time. He hasn't been very good around children so far but seemed better today and just carried on walking to heel, needing the odd check when he tried to pull.
As we got to the Nicky Line we met a lady with an Airedale and a Cavalier, the Airedale ignored us but the Cavvy said hello. We let them walk in front of us but the Cavvy kept coming back so we overtook and headed to the rugby field. To get out of their way we went on the rugby field at the first opportunity and I made Rodders sit so I could swap leads.
He loves the freedom of the extendable lead and will lag behind and then run past me. He will usually wait when told for me to catch him up if he is in front. This doesn't work too well if there are other dogs about though so we need to practice more but it does allow us the freedom to try without him being able to run off.
We did the whole field and Rodders was happy sniffing about and finding treasure to be dropped and left if he found something more exciting. Once he had something in his mouth he was prancing about and leaping off all fours like a spring lamb, very pleased with himself.
As we came off the field I made him sit so we could swap leads. He does seem to realise the difference and very quickly walks to heel again.
We walked back past Kev and Jane's and home with Rodders sitting and waiting at kerbs and doors.
Sunday, 27 November 2011
Shopping
Rodders and I went off to the pet shop at St Albans to see if we could find him a bean bag but they don't sell them. We did come home with a nice squishy bed pad that just fits in his crate though :-) Lets see if he likes it!
While we were there we met several dogs and Rodders was happy to say hello.
First it was a lady and her daughter with a small black and white Lhasa Apso, they were a bit surprised that it was so friendly towards another dog.
Then a family with a year old Westie (Bailey) and a Mini Schnauzer (Harley) that is two weeks older than Rodders and about a third bigger! Apparently he was the biggest puppy in the litter, he is huge compared to Rodders and already taller than the Westie. We talked for a while about our grooming experience as she thought Rodders looked beautiful and wanted to take pictures to show her groomer how she would like Harley to look! She takes them both to a groomer in Bushey apparently.The Westie looked OK, but not a patch on Finnan, so I wonder what she will do to a Schnauzer! The good news here was that Rodders was happy for them and their children to fuss him and did not back off or try to hide behind me.
Rodders then found a loose biscuit on the floor and was desperate to get to it. Once he picked it up he was very proud to walk around with it in his mouth for a while before stopping to eat it up.
The final dog was a Springer Spaniel who was in for a coat fitting. Rodders had a good sniff at him but didn't seem too impressed with the coat!
We paid for our purchase and made our way back to the car to drop it off. We then had a walk about to see what else was in this small shopping area and let Rodders get a bit more used to people.
Then it was back in the car and home via the hole in the wall for some cash. He is very good in the car but he doesn't like me getting out and back in. Think I am going to have to remember this and go to the crate and talk to him before I get in and drive off - he is probably angling for another treat!
While we were there we met several dogs and Rodders was happy to say hello.
First it was a lady and her daughter with a small black and white Lhasa Apso, they were a bit surprised that it was so friendly towards another dog.
Then a family with a year old Westie (Bailey) and a Mini Schnauzer (Harley) that is two weeks older than Rodders and about a third bigger! Apparently he was the biggest puppy in the litter, he is huge compared to Rodders and already taller than the Westie. We talked for a while about our grooming experience as she thought Rodders looked beautiful and wanted to take pictures to show her groomer how she would like Harley to look! She takes them both to a groomer in Bushey apparently.The Westie looked OK, but not a patch on Finnan, so I wonder what she will do to a Schnauzer! The good news here was that Rodders was happy for them and their children to fuss him and did not back off or try to hide behind me.
Rodders then found a loose biscuit on the floor and was desperate to get to it. Once he picked it up he was very proud to walk around with it in his mouth for a while before stopping to eat it up.
The final dog was a Springer Spaniel who was in for a coat fitting. Rodders had a good sniff at him but didn't seem too impressed with the coat!
We paid for our purchase and made our way back to the car to drop it off. We then had a walk about to see what else was in this small shopping area and let Rodders get a bit more used to people.
Then it was back in the car and home via the hole in the wall for some cash. He is very good in the car but he doesn't like me getting out and back in. Think I am going to have to remember this and go to the crate and talk to him before I get in and drive off - he is probably angling for another treat!
Friday, 25 November 2011
Week four of puppy school
Rodders and I left OH to the DIY and we went off for our weekly trip to puppy school. As soon as I pulled up in the car park he was barking to be let out but he had to wait while I put my hair up out the way.
Once out of the car he was happy sniffing around until Tarka the Lab joined us. They had a good sniff at each other before Tinker the Spaniel arrived. The class before us were not very sociable and put their dogs in the cars and disappeared fairly quickly.
Sam called us all in to the hall, asking us to get our puppies to sit and wait at the door, and then get them in to down with us standing over them. Rodders was much better at both of these today. We then did heel and sit around the hall and then playing with tuggies and leave. We didn't do so well with this as Tarka had a squeaky toy which was a bit distracting but Rodders did leave when asked.
We then moved out to the Car Park and the puppies sat in a row and then we took in in turns to weave in and out, then we walked in circles around them to heel. Rodders was quite good at this.
We moved on to the field and did sit, wait, come and treats. For the first time I actually let go of the lead and walked about two lead lengths away. The first time Rodders came just before I called him, the second time he was much better.
And then on to the agility course. Rodders did the A Frame twice and then went over the low jumps. He hated this last week but was better than me this time, I knocked the first two down! Then it was time for the tunnel, Rodders loves this as does Tarka. Poor Tinker hates it and her owner was almost in the tunnel trying to encourage her. In the end they got her to go in and out the same end a few times to get her used to it rather than through it.
While we were waiting for Tinker, Tarka's owner said how much Rodders had grown in confidence in the last week. I was really pleased to hear her say that, it made me very proud and shows that the work I am doing is paying off.
We did down and stay before walking to heel back to the hall for a progress report. Sam thought all puppies had done really well this week, more proud grinning from me!
Six weeks to go!
Once out of the car he was happy sniffing around until Tarka the Lab joined us. They had a good sniff at each other before Tinker the Spaniel arrived. The class before us were not very sociable and put their dogs in the cars and disappeared fairly quickly.
Sam called us all in to the hall, asking us to get our puppies to sit and wait at the door, and then get them in to down with us standing over them. Rodders was much better at both of these today. We then did heel and sit around the hall and then playing with tuggies and leave. We didn't do so well with this as Tarka had a squeaky toy which was a bit distracting but Rodders did leave when asked.
We then moved out to the Car Park and the puppies sat in a row and then we took in in turns to weave in and out, then we walked in circles around them to heel. Rodders was quite good at this.
We moved on to the field and did sit, wait, come and treats. For the first time I actually let go of the lead and walked about two lead lengths away. The first time Rodders came just before I called him, the second time he was much better.
And then on to the agility course. Rodders did the A Frame twice and then went over the low jumps. He hated this last week but was better than me this time, I knocked the first two down! Then it was time for the tunnel, Rodders loves this as does Tarka. Poor Tinker hates it and her owner was almost in the tunnel trying to encourage her. In the end they got her to go in and out the same end a few times to get her used to it rather than through it.
While we were waiting for Tinker, Tarka's owner said how much Rodders had grown in confidence in the last week. I was really pleased to hear her say that, it made me very proud and shows that the work I am doing is paying off.
We did down and stay before walking to heel back to the hall for a progress report. Sam thought all puppies had done really well this week, more proud grinning from me!
Six weeks to go!
Monday, 21 November 2011
A walk down the Nicky Line
Rodders was happy playing in the garden but he hadn't been out on his lead today so I got my wellies and coat on before calling him in.
As soon as he spotted what I was wearing he was bouncing around with excitement but I managed to get him to sit long enough to have his lead put on.
We walked out the house to the right and towards the mini roundabout before going left to the bridge and down the steps top the Nicky Line. We turned left and came back under the bridge. Rodders is walking so much better and most of the time is happy trotting along beside me. He will stop and sniff at things but usually moves on when asked.
We met a lady coming towards us with three dogs and we stopped for a chat. Rodders is the first Mini Schnauzer puppy she has seen and she thought he was gorgeous. She was also pleased to see that I didn't even try to pick him up when her dogs came towards him. I told her that I thought he needed to get used to them and as long as he doesn't seem upset by them I would never pick him up. She gave him a fuss before we turned around and headed back the way we had come.
Rodders started to pull a bit so I made him sit a couple of times and when that didn't work I started to use the choke chain to check him. By the time we got back to Pentland he was walking nicely again.
Doing this route means that he is exposed to traffic a little each way and I hope that this will help to settle him down a bit and get him used to it.
As soon as he spotted what I was wearing he was bouncing around with excitement but I managed to get him to sit long enough to have his lead put on.
We walked out the house to the right and towards the mini roundabout before going left to the bridge and down the steps top the Nicky Line. We turned left and came back under the bridge. Rodders is walking so much better and most of the time is happy trotting along beside me. He will stop and sniff at things but usually moves on when asked.
We met a lady coming towards us with three dogs and we stopped for a chat. Rodders is the first Mini Schnauzer puppy she has seen and she thought he was gorgeous. She was also pleased to see that I didn't even try to pick him up when her dogs came towards him. I told her that I thought he needed to get used to them and as long as he doesn't seem upset by them I would never pick him up. She gave him a fuss before we turned around and headed back the way we had come.
Rodders started to pull a bit so I made him sit a couple of times and when that didn't work I started to use the choke chain to check him. By the time we got back to Pentland he was walking nicely again.
Doing this route means that he is exposed to traffic a little each way and I hope that this will help to settle him down a bit and get him used to it.
Sunday, 20 November 2011
Off to the Park
Rodders was out playing in the garden so I managed to get my coat and wellies on without too much fuss but he nearly did summersaults once he spotted me so getting him to sit to have his lead on took a while, so did sit and wait at the front door.
Once outside John from over the green asked if he could meet Rodders and I explained that he is a bit nervous of people. Luckily John is used to dogs and so he waited for Rodders to approach him which he did quite quickly and then backed off.
I popped Rodders in his car crate with a treat and then drove down to the Old Town and found a spot to park along Gadebridge Park wall which meant parallel parking. It would seem Rodders doesn't like the noise the parking sensors make as he barked a bit!
I put his lead on and got him out the car. We walked through the gate and across the grass to the main path and turned left towards the town. Rodders walked quite nicely but he doesn't seem too keen on pushchairs or bikes. We met a lady with an elderly mini schnauzer (that can't see too well) and a sausage dog/jack russell cross. We let the dogs sniff each other and she gave Rodders a fuss.
We walked to the end of the park and turned left and left to come back down the Old Town High Street. I was being nosy as it is closed to traffic today for some filming. Must be something from around the time of the Queens Coronation by the decorations and bunting. They have also changed some of the shop windows to that period and there were a few old cars about. I think it must have been lunch break though as there wasn't much going on. Good job really as Rodders pooped half way down!
We then walked down the side of the dentist, across the car park and back in to the park and turned right back towards the car.
There were some children playing with a football and Rodders wanted to go and join in, it was a bit of a job to get him past them but we got there. We walked to the far gate and then along the road back to the car.
Once outside John from over the green asked if he could meet Rodders and I explained that he is a bit nervous of people. Luckily John is used to dogs and so he waited for Rodders to approach him which he did quite quickly and then backed off.
I popped Rodders in his car crate with a treat and then drove down to the Old Town and found a spot to park along Gadebridge Park wall which meant parallel parking. It would seem Rodders doesn't like the noise the parking sensors make as he barked a bit!
I put his lead on and got him out the car. We walked through the gate and across the grass to the main path and turned left towards the town. Rodders walked quite nicely but he doesn't seem too keen on pushchairs or bikes. We met a lady with an elderly mini schnauzer (that can't see too well) and a sausage dog/jack russell cross. We let the dogs sniff each other and she gave Rodders a fuss.
We walked to the end of the park and turned left and left to come back down the Old Town High Street. I was being nosy as it is closed to traffic today for some filming. Must be something from around the time of the Queens Coronation by the decorations and bunting. They have also changed some of the shop windows to that period and there were a few old cars about. I think it must have been lunch break though as there wasn't much going on. Good job really as Rodders pooped half way down!
We then walked down the side of the dentist, across the car park and back in to the park and turned right back towards the car.
There were some children playing with a football and Rodders wanted to go and join in, it was a bit of a job to get him past them but we got there. We walked to the far gate and then along the road back to the car.
Saturday, 19 November 2011
Best walk so far
Rodders was really good on this mornings walk!
He got excited as I put on my coat and was leaping about by the time I had my wellies on. I have started to make him sit and wait at the front door like we do in training and he did it at the second attempt (first attempt on the way back in).
He messed around a little on Pentland but was fine by the time we were heading to the rugby field. We walked a little way down the field and then turned on to the Nicky Line and walked parallel to the field. He was a bit interested in the squirrels but carried on walking when asked. We got to the end of the field and turned around at the gate but Rodders had spotted a Jack Russell and wanted to wait for it to catch up and say hello. He was fine with it and happy to let it sniff him and have a sniff himself but a little spooked when it barked at him. They played for a little while and then we got over taken by a load of bikes, he was happy to sit and watch them. We then said goodbye to the Jack Russell and headed back on to the field.
There were two Rottweilers coming towards us and they ignored him completely, he was happy to look and then carry on. He wanted to run a bit so we did. Then as we walked along the side of the rugby pitch where there was lots of interesting rubbish thrown about he was happy to leave when asked.
Once at the other side of the field we crossed on to the path and started heading towards home. He was fine in the trees but he starts to walk much quicker once we are on the road and is still spooked a little by cars but was a bit better with the bus, maybe because it didn't actually come past us. He wasn't too happy about walking past people at the bus stop but did it.
We then turned left in to the estate and headed for home. We had been out for about 30 minutes and we had managed to walk further than normal. He only really sat down once refusing to move and a quick pull (or is that a check?) got that sorted.
Since we got back he has been chasing his toys around the conservatory and he has just asked to go in the garden. Might go and grab myself some lunch, once he is a little dopey this afternoon I may go out shopping for an hour or so.
He got excited as I put on my coat and was leaping about by the time I had my wellies on. I have started to make him sit and wait at the front door like we do in training and he did it at the second attempt (first attempt on the way back in).
He messed around a little on Pentland but was fine by the time we were heading to the rugby field. We walked a little way down the field and then turned on to the Nicky Line and walked parallel to the field. He was a bit interested in the squirrels but carried on walking when asked. We got to the end of the field and turned around at the gate but Rodders had spotted a Jack Russell and wanted to wait for it to catch up and say hello. He was fine with it and happy to let it sniff him and have a sniff himself but a little spooked when it barked at him. They played for a little while and then we got over taken by a load of bikes, he was happy to sit and watch them. We then said goodbye to the Jack Russell and headed back on to the field.
There were two Rottweilers coming towards us and they ignored him completely, he was happy to look and then carry on. He wanted to run a bit so we did. Then as we walked along the side of the rugby pitch where there was lots of interesting rubbish thrown about he was happy to leave when asked.
Once at the other side of the field we crossed on to the path and started heading towards home. He was fine in the trees but he starts to walk much quicker once we are on the road and is still spooked a little by cars but was a bit better with the bus, maybe because it didn't actually come past us. He wasn't too happy about walking past people at the bus stop but did it.
We then turned left in to the estate and headed for home. We had been out for about 30 minutes and we had managed to walk further than normal. He only really sat down once refusing to move and a quick pull (or is that a check?) got that sorted.
Since we got back he has been chasing his toys around the conservatory and he has just asked to go in the garden. Might go and grab myself some lunch, once he is a little dopey this afternoon I may go out shopping for an hour or so.
Friday, 18 November 2011
More new things
Rodders was brilliant in the car as we headed to Southampton to the Concorde Club, This is a lovely little hotel that OH and I know well and, even better, they are happy to accept we behaved dogs. This was Rodders first visit and my fingers were firmly crossed that he would be a well behaved dog!
He walked nicely from the car in to reception and the Hotel Manager & Receptonist were expecting him. Sue came straight out to meet him and he played on the floor with her for ages and was very happy that she gave him a treat.
He then gave a little whine which I guessed meant he needed to go to the toilet. We nipped out the door, along the path, through the gate and in to the garden and, after a quick sniff around, he pooped. A few more minutes running about we went back and he had another play with Sue before she showed us to our room.
He walked nicely from the car in to reception and the Hotel Manager & Receptonist were expecting him. Sue came straight out to meet him and he played on the floor with her for ages and was very happy that she gave him a treat.
He then gave a little whine which I guessed meant he needed to go to the toilet. We nipped out the door, along the path, through the gate and in to the garden and, after a quick sniff around, he pooped. A few more minutes running about we went back and he had another play with Sue before she showed us to our room.
Wednesday, 16 November 2011
Rodders had another nap and another
After a busy time playing in the garden Rodders had a short nap but got woken fairly quickly when he heard Bob and Pat next door coming home and he started barking. Pat could hear him and was watching him over the fence. I let him out and he carried on barking on the patio until I went and joined him.
After a bit of a play Rodders had another nap this afternoon and woke up as Skevi, our lady that does, arrived. He nearly barked the house down.
Once he had settled down and Skevi and I had a catch up we went off to Pets at Home to give her some peace. I didn't bother with the choke chain and so we got out the house much quicker.
He was brilliant in the car but gave a small bark when I parked, think he was worried I might forget about him! Once his lead was on we made our way in to the shop, he was a little hesitant coming over the threshold but once in the shop he was barking to let everyone know he was there.
He made friends with a Bichon Frise called Lacey, a spaniel and a bits. It is strange that he will approach any dog without problem but will not go near people. A few people did take the time to get him to come to them though, which was lovely.
We nearly had a problem with a loose ball as he wanted to go and get it but I managed to get him away.
He was very good at walking on his lead and came when I asked him to. There are so many distractions i there I thought this was brilliant.
When we got back home he thought it was great fun to chase Skevi and the Swiffer as she cleaned the floor and he was pouncing and prancing after it. He also nearly managed to get the rubbish bag but a swift no stopped him.
He has now asked to come up on the sofa and seems to be tired again but there is so much going on with Skevi walking in and out plus the noise of the hoover he won't settle.
After a bit of a play Rodders had another nap this afternoon and woke up as Skevi, our lady that does, arrived. He nearly barked the house down.
Once he had settled down and Skevi and I had a catch up we went off to Pets at Home to give her some peace. I didn't bother with the choke chain and so we got out the house much quicker.
He was brilliant in the car but gave a small bark when I parked, think he was worried I might forget about him! Once his lead was on we made our way in to the shop, he was a little hesitant coming over the threshold but once in the shop he was barking to let everyone know he was there.
He made friends with a Bichon Frise called Lacey, a spaniel and a bits. It is strange that he will approach any dog without problem but will not go near people. A few people did take the time to get him to come to them though, which was lovely.
We nearly had a problem with a loose ball as he wanted to go and get it but I managed to get him away.
He was very good at walking on his lead and came when I asked him to. There are so many distractions i there I thought this was brilliant.
When we got back home he thought it was great fun to chase Skevi and the Swiffer as she cleaned the floor and he was pouncing and prancing after it. He also nearly managed to get the rubbish bag but a swift no stopped him.
He has now asked to come up on the sofa and seems to be tired again but there is so much going on with Skevi walking in and out plus the noise of the hoover he won't settle.
Thursday, 10 November 2011
Playing
Once I got back this morning Rodders slept for almost two hours and then woke up as a bundle of energy.
We went straight in to the garden so he could have a piddle - eventually - first of all he had to bark at Bob and Pat and then go and say hello over the garden fence and get a fuss. He has been on the go ever since. Running in and out of the garden, chasing his toys, playing fetch with his ball, tug with the monkey and he has even worked out that when the washing machine is on the water comes down the drain if he stands and waits long enough.
We have had the brushes out and given him a good groom so he looked nice and pretty for about five minutes.
At about 3.45 he decided it was time for a walk and went and stood at the lounge door and barked. Once I put my coat on he was nearly beside himself and when I went in to the hall to out on my wellies he ran up the stairs and stood at the top barking. I brought him back down, got my wellies on and then it took ages to get him to sit before I could put his lead on.
We eventually got out of the house and turned right. As we got to the top of Pentland we met Lillian and Chris, back from a shopping trip, and they stopped to talk to him (& me in the end!).
We walked to the Rugby Field and then on to the Nicky Line. He was walking much better, although rather than sitting down he did lie down one time! Once on the Nicky Line a Golden Retriever was following us and Rodders kept messing about until it caught us up so he could say hello. He was then nearly running to catch it up again. Until I man on a bike came towards us with a Shitzu.....
Rodders stood there, back legs splayed and let the dog approach him! They played for a little while and, even though I thought they were getting a bit rough, he didn't try to hide behind my legs at all. This sounds like progress to me!
Once they carried on we walked as far as the goal posts and then cut back in to the field and walked back towards home. Rodders spotted a King Charles playing ball and was fascinated and kept stopping to watch. He still seemed happy to walk so we turned right towards the road.
We haven't done much walking along the main road so I thought we should give it a try. He was very good and the only time he stopped to have a look was when a bus came past us.
We turned left, then right, back towards home and as we got to Pentland he almost ran the rest of the way home.
We went straight in to the garden so he could have a piddle - eventually - first of all he had to bark at Bob and Pat and then go and say hello over the garden fence and get a fuss. He has been on the go ever since. Running in and out of the garden, chasing his toys, playing fetch with his ball, tug with the monkey and he has even worked out that when the washing machine is on the water comes down the drain if he stands and waits long enough.
We have had the brushes out and given him a good groom so he looked nice and pretty for about five minutes.
At about 3.45 he decided it was time for a walk and went and stood at the lounge door and barked. Once I put my coat on he was nearly beside himself and when I went in to the hall to out on my wellies he ran up the stairs and stood at the top barking. I brought him back down, got my wellies on and then it took ages to get him to sit before I could put his lead on.
We eventually got out of the house and turned right. As we got to the top of Pentland we met Lillian and Chris, back from a shopping trip, and they stopped to talk to him (& me in the end!).
We walked to the Rugby Field and then on to the Nicky Line. He was walking much better, although rather than sitting down he did lie down one time! Once on the Nicky Line a Golden Retriever was following us and Rodders kept messing about until it caught us up so he could say hello. He was then nearly running to catch it up again. Until I man on a bike came towards us with a Shitzu.....
Rodders stood there, back legs splayed and let the dog approach him! They played for a little while and, even though I thought they were getting a bit rough, he didn't try to hide behind my legs at all. This sounds like progress to me!
Once they carried on we walked as far as the goal posts and then cut back in to the field and walked back towards home. Rodders spotted a King Charles playing ball and was fascinated and kept stopping to watch. He still seemed happy to walk so we turned right towards the road.
We haven't done much walking along the main road so I thought we should give it a try. He was very good and the only time he stopped to have a look was when a bus came past us.
We turned left, then right, back towards home and as we got to Pentland he almost ran the rest of the way home.
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