Harness Training! (Pics)

Well, there's no way around the truth. I've sucked at updating here for a while now. Sorry about that. I've been in a terrible funk, no lie.

Anyhoo, here's the current news:

Leo blew through Advanced Training in under a month. He loves being out in public and hearing what a handsome dog he is while he people watches. Unlike my previous dog, it's not about interacting with other people, it's watching us do what we do that he seems to enjoy. Once he started his public access work, it's like all the Foundation Training suddenly clicked and it all made sense to him. He was so fast, his harness wasn't ready when he was, lol. It's been fitted and is finished now, so he's officially in Harness Training, the final training phase. He loves his harness and is doing very well learning new skills and responsibilities. My big man is almost ready for me. In fact, you might see us together at Comic Con. No guarantee, only a possibility, but I'm excited nonetheless.

Here are some pics of my handsome man sporting his new hardware:

Happy dog :-)

He's got quite the mane, hasn't he? His name fits him in more ways that one!

I'll try to do better about updating now that we're getting close to Team Training, but no promises. Please know I'm doing my best. Thanks again for all your love and support!

Mal

Seasonal Tidings & Update from Leslie

Finally, here is a new picture of Leo. Leslie had a professional photographer take a couple of portraits for me! #SOhandsome ;-)

I'm SO excited about going up to meet him for the first time in just a few weeks! *Squeeeeee*
I don't know when he'll be coming home with me for good yet, but I promise to keep you posted.

Now, for the good stuff. Here's the latest update from Leslie:

Your boy is doing really well.  Applying himself with his heart!  I had a wonderful work session with Michele P. and I was so proud of Leo's efforts!

We are working on the platform training - he's learning about finding and maintaining "working position."  I am focusing him on LEFT HEEL positon and FRONT and finding both positions.  Once he's in position, he's becoming comfortable seeing me from there and is getting a high rate of reinforcement for maintaining those positions!  He now loves to work and is "in the game" :))  He waited patiently for his turn and was very happy when he got his chance to work!  He's also learning the foundation skills for WAIT and COME.

Leo and I are looking forward to your visit!