Roko: Day 17

Roko is doing very well. I’ve been under the weather for the past couple of days, so training has been minimal and focused on leash walking, greetings, and practicing “away” in the kitchen. My husband took care of the outdoor walks so that Roko could release his pent-up energy.

Roko’s behavior with Glimmer is improving steadily. He will still try to push or drive her away when people are offering pets to both him and her, but it isn’t as hard or as often. Where food treats are concerned, he is no longer trying to take them from her; instead, he is holding a sit position and patiently waiting for his turn. He is finally learning how to share.

Indoors, Roko’s leash manners have improved dramatically. He is finally learning how to control himself. When he pulls ahead and I stop moving, he backs himself up almost right away, bringing himself into a near-perfect heel position. Outdoors is far more challenging for him, but he’s making a real effort to ignore the distractions and follow nicely.

Roko and Violet have become friends. For the most part, Roko leaves Violet alone when they’re in the same room together. Now, Roko only chases her when she initiates the game. In fact, on several occasions, the two have been caught touching noses and being really gentle with each other when they thought no one was watching. As yet, I have not been able to get photos of this, because they stop the second Violet realizes they’re being observed.

Roko still has several days left in his program. We’re going to continue our work on door manners and polite greetings, socialization, house manners, leash manners, and basics outdoors to help improve his focus and recall.

Have a great day, and remember: Stay calm and lead on.