Joe, Jen, Bella and I met at the park to work with Bella. Joe and I needed some one on one time to learn Bella’s commands- down to every detail- to help make this transition as smooth as possible. As with training any pet, consistency is very important. Bella is very attached to Jen, so we have agreed to focus the training more on having Bella with many handlers, changing from Joe to I at first, to help build trust in Bella. The more she is exposed to different people, all giving the same commands and rewards (Good Bella) will help her build confidence. This will not only help her pass the Canine Good Citizen test but build an all around well balanced perfect  Bella! (She is almost there!)

Jen was very patient with us, as was Bella.  The park is a great place to practice because there are many distractions, leaving us needing to be a strong pack leader for Bella to follow. Bella was interested in a few dogs that passed, but took correction perfectly when we gave it. There was even a man right by us with a big remote control airplane, that he kept flying over us. Bella’s ear was always turned to who was walking her, letting us know she was checking in with us.(Just what we want!) Both Joe and I spent some time alone with her, walking in different directions, practicing the commands. Bella performed wonderfully!!! And that was with Jen in the area and watching, which was already a change  from just the day before.  Bella is very smart and wants to please. Jen, Joe and I are going to continue to work with Bella on a daily basis, reinforcing that positive exchange.

The best part of the night was when we left. We said our good byes to Bella, gave her some good belly rubs, and some smookee-wookee loving for doing such a good job! Jen walked to her truck, made Bella sit (always!) and gave Bella the ‘ok’ to jump into the truck. And for just a second, Bella hesitated and looked back over her shoulder at us walking away….

Oh Bella….you just melt my heart!