16Sep
Kobe is on his way home to Norway. Seeing how settled he was on his flight, hearing how calm he was and how people have been complimenting his behaviour makes me feel more than proud. I don't feel I can take full credit as he inherited the awesome traits from his parents (I value their calm behaviour) and Kobe was the easiest puppy we have ever had.
At 5/6 weeks of age, I noticed Kobe was hesitant and a little worried when being exposed to new things and environments. I knew he saw his crate as his safe space so I used his crate to provide him with a sense of security when doing new things. He could retreat to it or stay in until he felt comfortable to venture out on his own. He seemed to develop his calm confidence quickly and I took socialisation at his pace. I believe the stroller was monumental in making a difference. The puppies were safe inside whilst we went to a wide variety of areas- woodlands, bike parks, the high street, wide open spaces, streets, and even the Yorkshire festival filled with crowds, dogs and loud music.
Kobe stayed with us for a while longer as he needed his rabies vaccination at 12 weeks and he stayed with his new extended family a short while after. I wanted Kobe to develop the skills he would need to feel safe on his flight home, be ready for routine changes, to meet new people, make new doggy friends and feel confident in himself. We went to a wide variety of areas, went on many car trips (long and short), the beach, enclosed woodlands with the pack, lots of solo walks, pub and cafe meals, a boat trip and so much more. Kobe navigated everything with ease. He took it all in, remaining calm and confident. He was the easiest puppy we have ever had. The combination of his parents traits, my socialisation, observations and taking it all at his pace meant we created exactly what I dreamed of.
Hearing his new mums feedback on his behaviour and how clear it is to see the socialisation he has had brings tears to my eyes. It is an amazing feeling knowing I have helped my puppies become happy, confident, adaptable and bring so much joy to their families.
I am seriously considering keeping any shy, quiet puppies for a little while longer so I can do more socialisation at their pace and make them even more prepared for their futures.
~Claire 🐾
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