25/05/2026
This picture was taken on the day I could 'Take Paddy outside because he'd had his final vaxx'
Paddy was 16wks old and I (at this point) wasn't a Trainer. Infact, Professional Dog Training (or study of behaviour!) was no where near my radar!
This day felt magical because it was Paddy's first walk OUTSIDE the home - how exciting!
BUT...
He pulled me EVERYWHERE and to EVERYONE and to EVERY DOG and to EVERY smell!
I kept apologising saying 'sorry, he's a puppy & wants to say hi' 🙈
I got home and felt exhausted!
I took him to obedience training - he pulled me into the classes and pulled me back to the car
He became reactive! He was easily overaroused. He had zero impulse control. His emotions got the better of him.
I felt helpless. Even though I was achieving basic obedience.... Sit-stay. Drop-Stay. Recall. Loose Leash Walking in class. He'd focus on me in class
What I didn't realise (but now know) is that I didn't expose him to the world in the time I was told to keep him inside.
Y'see.... we're all told 'advice' from professionals and we listen
What we need to determine is if the 'advice' is old school or modern advice
Paddy is now (almost) 10yrs old and he's a gem!
All because I put the work in during my behaviour studies!
Don't do what I did.... and keep your pup inside before their final vaxx!
Take your puppy out and about. Build your relationship & bond. Build play with toys and YOU. Communication. Get them walking over surfaces. Hearing various sounds. Obedience can wait!
Be proactive and get a 1:1 Trainer early! They'll support you through all the ups & downs of puppyhood 🫶🏻🐾
What mistakes did you make when you first got your dog? Be honest! What would you do differently for the next time? 🤔
