Sometimes we get lucky and get a new pet client with the intelligence of a 12yo child and the manners of British Royalty. These guys aren’t them. Growing up in home with loving parents dealing with health issues these 2 goofballs are very smart, but have no manners. They’re both rescues and both are lucky and grateful to have such loving and doting parents. They are well cared for, and have a large fenced yard to run around in. But they have no training or manners. Princess is the older, and will bowl you over with her nearly 100lb affection. She’s not safe around older people who can get easily knocked over. Mickey is friendly and very smart, but like many Pitties he likes to mouth parts of you with his teeth. It’s not dangerous, but if you don’t know him, you may jerk your hand away when you feel teeth, and that could lead to trouble. Their parent wants to be able to go for walks and enjoy their company. Not to worry, twice a week structured walks help them learn how to behave safely and politely around owners. Alex designs structured walks to help set expectation for the dog, but also to instill the habits dogs need to have to safely participate in society. Primarily that means teaching the dog to want to pay attention to the handler or parent. That’s right, not training, teaching. Training is great for puppies, when they absorb whatever you teach them without question. Older dogs (you’ll remember that old expression about teaching them tricks) have free will, so they need to be taught and convinced. Sure, you can force training. But you won’t be able to rely on that in an emergency situation. Alex practices things like being startled by a squirrel or bird, loud people walking by, and of course basic manner like not invading human social space as they walk by, not barking at other dogs, and much more. And the result is, a pet that chooses to obey and listen voluntarily, that protects you in an emergency rather than creates them. We all love our furry kids. And it’s great to see parents investing in their higher education.