Sometimes the right choice means changing course.t his week brought clarity, better alignment, and a renewed confidence in Nakina’s training journey.

🐾 Changes in Training

Nakina’s two original classes turned out to be a poor fit for us. The training approaches being used were outdated and not aligned with current, science-based practices. That’s not something I’m comfortable with, and I won’t allow it to impact Nakina’s learning or confidence.

I’ve since enrolled her in a different Puppy STAR class, and the difference has been night and day. The trainer is thoughtful, modern, and focused on positive, evidence-based methods. While the class is a 45-minute drive each way, it’s absolutely worth it for both of us to have a positive, supportive experience.

Training

For Basic Obedience, from last week Nakina still needs additional work on loose leash walking and recall. This week, we’re also adding stand, place, and leave it.

For AKC Puppy STAR, she needs more work on recall and settle from last week, and this week’s additions include come, sit in heel position, loose leash walking, and “give me paw.”

For our new Puppy STAR class, the primary focus is loose leash walking.

Taking all of that together, our key priorities right now are: Loose leash walking, Recall, Settle, Sit in heel position, Give me paw

At home, we are also working on waiting calmly at doors until released.

Socialization

With the increased focus on training, socialization took a bit of a back seat this week. We’ll be making a conscious effort to rebalance that, including returning to focused elevator work.

What's Next

• Walking — calm leash walking on the left and sitting at stops
• Settle — begin removing the lure
• Recall — continue on leash in quiet environments
• Trick — give me paw
• Wait — calmly waiting until released at doors
• Grooming — continue desensitizing to the Dremel
• Complete elevator desensitization

I’m feeling much better now that Nakina is enrolled in a class that aligns with current science and our values. Having the right support makes all the difference.