By Annie Scudder
Pointer Professor | Dog Life Specialist
Dunkin is a 3 month old Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog/Poodle). He first entered the Puppy Nursery when he was 8 weeks old. His awesome parents wanted to make sure that he got the foundation he needed to be a successful, confident adult dog and were happy to invest in his future.
When Dunkin first came we started working on the basics: sit, down, stay and come. I sent daily videos on our training to his parents so they could emulate it at home, which his parents did wonderfully.
Dunkin also had play time with other puppies that helped him gain confidence. He started as a somewhat shy pup with other dogs and quickly blossomed into a confident, easy going boy when mixed with the right group. His best friend, a golden retriever puppy named Timbo, and him are awesome playmates and run to each other whenever they arrive for their day at Wag.
As Dunkin has gotten a little older, he has started working on more advanced behaviors like leave it, drop it, paw, watch me and some leash work. He picks up behaviors remarkably fast and is always eager to please. He is a star student!
As part of the Puppy Nursery, Dunkin also has gotten the opportunity to have daily activities to enrich his mind, which will help him as he enters adulthood. Ashley, our groomer, has done a fabulous job at getting him accustomed to the grooming table, baths, nail trims, and blow drying. He’s stood on the vet table and learned how to be restrained, which has turned a potentially scary situation into a fun, treat filled situation! He’s tried out the pool (which he loves!) and taken field trips to the bakery to meet new people and receive one of our Wagaloo Cafe treats. He has conquered the agility equipment, and done treat puzzles and scavenger hunts to work his mind and nose. All of this he has taken in stride, wagging his tail the whole time.
Dunkin will soon be turning 4 months old and be able to officially graduate from the Puppy Nursery and enter “big dog” daycare. I am happy to send him off, knowing he is a happy, confident boy ready to take on adult life with a solid foundation. Even though he won’t be in the Puppy Nursery with me every day, he will always have a special place in my heart as my little Dunkaccino.
For more information, check out our Puppy Nursery School Program or reach out to Annie directly at Annie@wagcentralct.com.