Nakina celebrated two new AKC titles this week while continuing her journey toward Advanced Tricks, Rally, and Fit Dog Gold.
🐾 More Titles
This week was full of exciting news. Nakina was officially awarded both her AKC Intermediate Trick Dog and AKC Fit Dog Silver titles.
It's amazing to think she has accomplished all of this at just nine months old.
Training
We spent much of the week working on Advanced Tricks. I had hoped to submit her title application in the next few days, but I'm no longer sure we'll quite get there before I leave. That's okay - we'll keep working toward it when I return.
On Tuesday, Nakina had her nails clipped. I've decided that when I get back from my trip, one of our priorities will be helping her become more comfortable with me using the Dremel. It's something I'd really like us to work through together.
Our Rally Skills class went very well again this week.
On Thursday, we completed a 5K walk toward AKC Fit Dog Gold. We also attended Advanced Tricks, followed immediately by a private training session. Between the long walk and several hours of training, it was a full day for both of us, but a very productive one.
Socialization
Although training continues to be our primary focus, we did make a special trip on Monday. We drove about 2½ hours each way so Nakina could have professional photographs taken. She handled the long day and the new experience beautifully, and I can't wait to see the proofs.
What's Next
- Emergency Stop & Hand Targeting — reintroduce and build consistency
- Down vs. settle — continue creating a clear distinction
- Stay — increase distance, duration, and distractions
- Recall — continue on leash in more distracting environments
- Travel Crate — zipping with no stress
- Grooming — begin grooming desensitization on the table
- Continue elevator desensitization
I'll be traveling for at least the next two weeks, so Nakina will be staying home with Guy. Leaving them is never easy, and I'll miss them both very much. There won't be any new blog updates while I'm away, but I look forward to sharing more of Nakina's adventures when I return.